Here is a 21 year old article that gives a perspective on the limited supply. Can't say it is 100% accurate, but sure made me look at diamonds from a different view. <A HREF="http://www.theatlantic.com/issues/82feb/8202diamond1" target="_new">http://www.theatlantic.com/issues/82feb/8202diamond1</A> Yes, natural gems are expensive because of limited supply