The natural diamond industry’s ability to rebuild consumer desire and establish a clearer value proposition is at the centre of discussions at the Dubai Diamond Conference 2026, taking place in Dubai from October 25 to 27.

Held under the theme Diamond 2.0: A Strategic Reset Reigniting Desire, Unlocking New Value, the conference is addressing the challenges facing the trade and the need for a coordinated response to changing consumer preferences, market pressures and competition from laboratory-grown diamonds.

The discussions come as the industry seeks to reinforce the distinctions between natural and laboratory-grown diamonds while addressing questions around rarity, provenance, trust and long-term value. The focus is on identifying ways to reconnect consumers with natural diamonds and strengthen their relevance in a changing jewellery market.

The conference programme includes discussions on rebuilding trust across the diamond trade, assessing current market conditions and examining lessons from the Swiss watch industry’s revival. Speakers include Charlotte Rose, president of the London Diamond Bourse; Olivia Landau, founder of The Clear Cut; and Edahn Golan of Tenoris.

The growing penetration of laboratory-grown diamonds in the US engagement ring market adds urgency to the debate. With consumer purchasing patterns evolving, the industry faces the challenge of communicating the distinctive attributes of natural diamonds while responding to new expectations around value and affordability.

The conference forms part of Dubai Diamond Week and reinforces the emirate’s role as a global diamond trading hub. The discussions are expected to contribute to the industry's ongoing debate on demand creation, consumer confidence and the future positioning of natural diamonds.