Size problem: Shrinking diamond content in jewelry is a headache for miners

The anemic growth has forced gem producers to respond in recent years

The diamond industry has a size problem.

Instead of splashing out on a ring or necklace featuring one big, bright diamond, shoppers are increasingly choosing pieces with several, smaller gems, which are often lower quality. And selling jewelry with smaller stones has been a good way for retailers to save money.

As a result, the diamond content in jewelry has been shrinking since 2011 back to a level last seen almost a decade ago, creating a headache for miners. It’s part of the reason the jewelry industry has been struggling to grow. The amount spent on diamond jewelry items has stayed at