Big Survey

Lab-Grown Diamonds Predicted as ‘The Next Big Trend’ by Big Survey Respondents

The category received more than twice as many unsolicited votes as the next-most-predicted category, colored gemstones.

Published

1 month ago

October 22, 2023

Trace Shelton

BY OVERWHELMING MAJORITY, respondents said lab-grown diamonds are the next breakout category, particularly in fashion jewelry. (It’s interesting how many wrote something along the lines of, “I hope I’m wrong, but lab-grown diamonds.”) Unfortunately for those “hoping they’re wrong,” naturally occurring diamonds only received 10 votes (compared to 66 for lab-grown).

Colored gemstones were also a popular prediction, receiving 31 votes. Yellow gold was suggested by 18 respondents, with one writing, “Anything yellow gold; people are wanting items that have an individuality to them and stand apart but are still simple and elegant.” Men’s jewelry, pearls and estate/vintage were all projected as future successes as well.

Other interesting predictions were stackable bracelets, transformational pieces (necklaces and earrings that can be worn multiple ways), heavy bangles and choker necklaces. And one respondent cited recent experience: “Just attended three shows. I saw a lot of stamped jewelry and basic flat metal rings and bracelets, as well as pendants with diamonds and/or color gemstones flush set in.”

When There’s No Succession Plan, Call Wilkerson

Bob Wesley, owner of Robert C. Wesley Jewelers in Scottsdale, Ariz., was a third-generation jeweler. When it was time to enjoy life on the other side of the counter, he weighed his options. His lease was nearing renewal time and with no succession plan, he decided it was time to call Wilkerson. There was plenty of inventory to sell and at first, says Wesley, he thought he might try to manage a sale himself. But he’s glad he didn’t. “There’s no way I could have done this as well as Wilkerson,” he says. Wilkerson took responsibility for the entire event, with every detail — from advertising to accounting — done, dusted and managed by the Wilkerson team. “It’s the complete package,” he says of the Wilkerson method of helping jewelers to easily go on to the next phase of their lives. “There’s no way any retailer can duplicate what they’ve done.”