A stable gem market heralds happy holidaysThe U.S. gem market is well-positioned heading into the holiday season. Improved demand for industry products is attributable to several factors: Prices are stabilizing in a number of gem categories, metals prices are lower, and retail consumers are able to access credit more easily than they could in 2012.As a result, retail jewelers have been more willing to buy. Although business is much improved, manufacturers still are cautious when extending credit. Retailers should expect obtaining memo goods this season to be difficult again for all but the best accounts. But with economic conditions slightly better than last year, they can expect to see improving demand for midrange diamond and colored stone products.In the diamond market, wholesale price decreases are being reported for round brilliant cuts. The trend is not broad in scope, however. The