Sberbank customers can soon explore the option of purchasing diamonds directly within the bank’s offices, a development confirmed by the bank’s press service. The move signals a new avenue for customers to access luxury assets through familiar financial channels, potentially simplifying the purchasing process for those who already trust Sberbank as a banking partner.
Early adopters have reportedly taken advantage of this service, turning purchased stones into personalized jewelry. Beyond personal adornment, diamonds are increasingly viewed as an asset class with growth potential, rivaling traditional gold investments in certain market scenarios. The pricing of gemstones, however, remains more nuanced than precious metals, because each gemstone’s value hinges on multiple factors such as size, cut, color, clarity, and overall craftsmanship. Market observers emphasize that even small differences in one attribute can meaningfully shift a stone’s value, underscoring the importance of expert appraisal in any purchase decision.
Recently, a bill was submitted to the State Duma proposing the permanent elimination of value-added tax on diamond purchases made by individuals from banks. The Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation reportedly expressed support for this initiative. If enacted, removing VAT could make bank-based diamond purchases more attractive to a wider audience by reducing upfront costs and increasing the perceived value of the asset over time, according to industry commentators. As noted by Sergei Shirokov, who leads the Borrowing and Savings department at Sberbank, such tax relief could broaden customer interest in this product and encourage more people to consider diamonds as part of a diversified investment approach.
In parallel, recent announcements from the Central Bank highlighted a shift in the treatment of gold investment, signaling changes that could influence related markets and investor behavior. This backdrop suggests that onlookers should monitor regulatory developments closely, as tax policy and monetary statements can together shape demand for both gold and non-metallic assets such as diamonds. Industry analysts in major markets have long observed that policy signals and tax incentives can alter the comparative appeal of various investment options, including stones that are authenticateable through bank channels and assessed by certified appraisers. The net effect is a marketplace where the role of financial institutions extends beyond traditional savings and loans, touching consumer confidence, portfolio allocation, and long-term wealth planning for a diverse set of investors and savers in North America and beyond. Source: Sberbank press service. It remains to be seen how these proposals will unfold in the legislative process and what the practical implications will be for retail purchasers who prefer the security and convenience of banking relationships during high-value transactions. As the market absorbs these developments, prospective buyers are advised to seek independent valuation and consider liquidity, resale channels, and insurance options as part of a holistic approach to diamond ownership.