Wholesale vs Retail Diamond Prices in Thailand
The same diamond can cost ฿200,000 or ฿500,000 depending on where you buy it. Understanding the pricing chain helps you find the best value without compromising on quality.
The Diamond Pricing Chain
Every diamond passes through multiple hands before reaching you. Each step adds cost.
Diamond Mine/Manufacturer
Base CostBotswana, Russia, India
Raw diamonds are mined and then cut/polished in manufacturing centers
Diamond Wholesaler
+10-20%Antwerp, Mumbai, Tel Aviv
Buys in bulk from manufacturers, sorts and grades diamonds
Thai Importer/Distributor
+15-25%Bangkok (Silom, Mahesak)
Imports diamonds, handles customs, supplies local jewelers
Retail Jeweler
+40-150%Malls, Jewelry Districts, Online
Final markup covers rent, staff, marketing, profit margin
Total Markup: From mine to luxury retail, a diamond's price can increase by 200-400%. Understanding where you're buying in this chain determines how much you pay.
Where to Buy: Channel Comparison
Luxury Mall (Siam Paragon, EmQuartier)
Markup: 100-150%Pros
- Trusted brands
- Beautiful showrooms
- After-sales service
Cons
- Highest prices
- Limited negotiation
- Paying for brand premium
Best For
Buyers who value brand prestige and don't mind paying premium
Department Store Jewelry
Markup: 70-100%Pros
- Convenient locations
- Some promotions/discounts
- Return policies
Cons
- Still high markups
- Limited selection
- Staff may lack expertise
Best For
Convenience-focused buyers with moderate budgets
Jewelry Districts (Mahesak, Silom)
Markup: 30-60%Pros
- Lower prices
- Negotiation possible
- Wide selection
Cons
- Overwhelming options
- Quality varies
- Need to verify reputation
Best For
Savvy buyers willing to research and negotiate
Online Retailers
Markup: 20-40%Pros
- Competitive prices
- 360° diamond videos
- Price comparison easy
Cons
- Can't see in person
- Shipping concerns
- Trust factor
Best For
Research-driven buyers comfortable with online purchases
Wholesale/Trade Access
Markup: 10-25%Pros
- Best prices
- Access to full inventory
- Industry pricing
Cons
- Requires connections
- Minimum orders sometimes
- No retail experience
Best For
Buyers with industry connections or large purchases
Real Price Comparison
1.00ct Round Brilliant, G Color, VS2 Clarity, Excellent Cut, GIA Certified
| Channel | USD Price | THB Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Rapaport Price (Trade Benchmark) | $5,800 | ~฿203,000 |
| Wholesale (Thai Importer) | $6,500-7,000 | ~฿227,500-245,000 |
| Jewelry District (Negotiated) | $7,500-8,500 | ~฿262,500-297,500 |
| Online Retailer | $8,000-9,500 | ~฿280,000-332,500 |
| Department Store | $10,000-12,000 | ~฿350,000-420,000 |
| Luxury Mall Brand | $12,000-15,000 | ~฿420,000-525,000 |
Potential Savings: Buying from a jewelry district instead of a luxury mall could save you ฿150,000-250,000 on the same stone.
How to Access Better Pricing
Build Relationships in Jewelry Districts
Visit Mahesak Road or the Jewelry Trade Center multiple times. Repeat customers often get better prices than walk-ins.
Ask for 'Trade Price'
Some retailers will offer trade pricing if you mention you're comparing with online retailers or other jewelers.
Consider Buying the Diamond Separately
Purchase a loose diamond from a wholesaler, then have it set locally. This can save 15-25% on the total.
Time Your Purchase
End of month/quarter when jewelers need to meet targets, or during low season (Jan, Mar-Apr) for better deals.
Join Jewelry Buying Groups
Some expat and Thai communities organize group buys that qualify for wholesale pricing.
Get Fair, Transparent Pricing
GlitzJewelry.com operates with online retailer pricing—competitive rates without the mall markup.
Compare Our Prices