The election has put the U.S. market in a wait-and-see mood, but movement in midrange goods is a promising signReports from September’s Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair indicate that demand for colored gemstones has been steadily improving in the global market in response to better supplies of both calibrated commercial and fine-quality stones. Prices have increased compared with 2011 levels—especially in the ruby market, where high prices and extremely limited supply of nice material have dealers looking to cultivate demand for alternatives to this classic red gem.The U.S. market is gearing up for the holiday season. Election years tend to stymie consumer interest in the weeks leading up to the vote. This typically leads to quiet September and October sales with activity rebounding nicely in November and December. So far, 2012 has conformed to that pattern.Colored stone dealers sa