The African Opportunity: Nigeria and Kenya Lead LGD Adoption

While everyone focuses on the US and Europe, Africa is quietly becoming a major lab-grown diamond market.

The Numbers Tell the Story

Nigeria's middle class: 23 million people (2025 estimate)

Kenya's jewelry market growth: 18% annually

South Africa's lab-grown adoption: 35% of engagement ring sales

Why Africa Is Different

Unlike Western markets where lab-grown competes with natural, in Africa it's creating new demand. Many first-time diamond buyers are choosing lab-grown because:

  • Affordability matches local purchasing power
  • No colonial baggage (African natural diamonds = exploitation history)
  • Status symbol of modernity and education

The Lagos Strategy

Nigerian retailers are positioning lab-grown as "smart luxury" for the tech-savvy elite. A 1ct lab-grown engagement ring costs ₦800,000-1.2M ($500-750 USD), compared to ₦3-5M for natural.

Payment Terms for African Markets:
We offer LC (Letter of Credit) for first-time buyers in Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa. This protects both parties and builds trust.

The Logistics Challenge

Shipping to Africa requires specialized knowledge:

  • Customs clearance in Lagos can take 7-14 days
  • Insurance is mandatory (theft risk)
  • Use DHL/FedEx, never regular postal service