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

12 months 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.”

You Wouldn’t Cut Your Own Hair. Why Run Your Own Retirement Sale?

After being in business for over a quarter of a century, Wayne Reid, owner of Wayne Jewelers in Wayne, Pennsylvania, decided it was time for a little “me time.” He says, “I’ve reached a point in my life where it’s time to slow down, enjoy a lot of things outside of the jewelry industry. It just seemed to be the right time.” He chose Wilkerson to handle his retirement sale because of their reputation and results. With financial goals exceeded, Reid says he made the right choice selecting Wilkerson to handle the sale. “They made every effort to push our jewelry to the forefront of the showcases,” he says, lauding Wilkerson for their finesse and expertise. Would he recommend them to other jewelers who want to make room for new merchandise, expand their business or like him, decide to call it a day? Absolutely he says, equating trying to do this kind of sale with cutting your own hair. “The results are going to happen but not as well as if you have a professional like Wilkerson do the job for you.”