RAPAPORT... U.S. polished diamond imports slipped 2 percent to $1.59
billion in November, according to government data. By volume, imports rose 6
percent to 779,732 carats, with the average price declining 7 percent to $2,042
per carat. 
Polished exports grew 25 percent to $1.7 billion, driving
net polished imports to negative $108.8 million versus positive $260.7 million
a year ago.
Rough imports more than doubled to $72.3 million versus
$31.6 million a year ago, while rough exports jumped to $73.2 million from
$19.8 million last year. Consequently, net rough imports slipped to negative
$899,000 versus positive $11.8 million a year back.
The U.S. net diamond account, reflecting the difference
between net imports and exports, stood at negative $107.9 million compared with
positive $248.9 million a year ago.
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