Melee diamonds are the small stones, usually below about 0.18 carat each, that line halos, pavé bands, eternity rings and cluster designs. They are sold in parcels by sieve size and quality, and for many jewellers they are the easiest way to start working with laboratory-grown diamonds.

Surat is the world's largest diamond cutting and polishing centre, and most of the world's laboratory-grown melee is cut here. This is how sourcing works.

1. Define what you need

Before you ask for prices, decide:

  • Shape: round brilliant is the standard; baguettes, princess, marquise and pear are available too.
  • Size: given as a sieve range (for example +2 to +2.5) or millimetre diameter (for example 1.3–1.4 mm).
  • Colour and clarity: common trade grades are DEF VVS/VS for premium work and EFG VS/SI for commercial pieces.
  • Quantity: in carats or pieces, and whether you need a one-off parcel or regular supply.

2. Ask for current prices

Melee is priced per carat by size band and grade. Prices change with market conditions, so ask for a current list. You can see our latest wholesale price list, downloadable as PDF or Excel.

3. Consistency matters more than grade

For melee, matching is everything. A halo only looks good if every stone has the same colour, the same cut quality and the same size. Ask your supplier how parcels are sorted and matched, and how they handle repeat orders so a new parcel matches the last one.

4. Samples and first orders

For a new supplier, start with a small parcel. Check it under a loupe and daylight lamp, measure a sample of stones and set a few to see how they look in metal.

5. Certification

Individual melee stones are not usually certified separately. Reputable suppliers issue an invoice that describes the goods as laboratory-grown diamonds, with total carat weight, size range and grade. Larger stones (typically 0.30 carat and up) can be supplied with individual IGI or GIA reports.

6. Payment and shipping

International shipments of diamonds travel by insured courier services that specialise in valuables. Your supplier provides export paperwork; you handle import clearance and any duties or taxes in your country. Our guide on importing loose lab-grown diamonds from India covers this in more detail.

Working with us

Sheladiya Diamond supplies laboratory-grown melee and larger stones from Surat to jewellers in India and abroad. Tell us your shapes, sizes, grades and quantities and we will quote. Contact our team.