THIS YEAR’S BIG SURVEY from INSTORE asked its 750-plus respondents, “What do you think will be the next breakout category in jewelry?”
More than 25 percent of respondents mentioned “lab-grown diamonds” — an absolutely huge number. While most were big supporters of the category, there were a few who admitted its popularity but said they refused to sell them.
The next most popular answer was “permanent jewelry,” a style that’s catching on across the country, with some retailers even holding events around the category. That said, even some of those who tabbed it as the next big trend said they weren’t taking part. As one respondent said, “Once the stupid ‘forever bracelets’ are over with, we will move on to putting clasps back on them … and lawsuits following the lacerations caused by snagging them, LOL.”
Yellow gold continues to trend in independent jewelry stores as well, with one respondent saying, “Over the recent years, white gold has been in the lead when it comes to buying gold. However, we are beginning to see two-tone and yellow gold on the rise with many 80s trends returning.”
Custom jewelry remains popular, and notably, several respondents said men’s jewelry sales were picking up for them. Wearable tech is also catching on, particularly jewelry that incorporates health sensors.
Other trends suggested by multiple respondents included fashion/gold-plated jewelry, retro styles, tennis necklaces and bracelets, ear cuffs, and paper-clip designs.