Exports of rough diamonds by the Russian diamond sector fell by 24.7 percent to 18.12 million carats during the first six months of this year, when compared to the same period in 2010, although in terms of value a 17.4 percent increase to $1.86 billion was recorded, according to Finance Ministry data provided by the Prime news agency.

The ministry also reported that Russian diamond output during the first half increased by 5.4 percent year on year, and in terms of value by 11.2 percent to $1.27 billion.

In 2010, Russia’s rough diamond exports almost tripled to 40.4 million carats from 14.7 million carats in 2009. In value terms they  increased to $2.78 billion from $1.23 billion.