(IDEX Online) - India's polished diamond exports rose by almost a half during the year to the end of March 2021.Total gross sales were $24.2bn, up from $16.3bn year on year, according to the GJEPC (Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council), a dollar rise of 48.8 per cent. Rough imports for the same period were up by almost 74 per cent, from $10.9bn to $18.9bn, though the volume in carats rose by only 32 per cent amid spiraling prices rises.Overall gross exports of all gems and jewelry were up by 54 per cent in the same period, to $39.1bn. Colin Shah (pictured), GJEPC chairman, said: "India's exports to global markets bounced back 54 per cent, demonstrating the agility of the Indian G&J pipeline in adjusting quickly to an uncertain business environment marked by temporary Covid lockdowns and unprecedented demand surges."