On Data: Independent Jewelers Shine Bright in Early December
Sherry Smith dishes on bridal versus fashion diamond jewelry sales and the “unexpected heroes” of the first week of the month.

In this column, I will dissect the facets of the jewelry market’s early December performance, from a nuanced 2 percent boost in overall sales to the surge in custom creations.
During the first week of December, independent jewelers experienced a favorable trend, witnessing a notable 2 percent surge in overall gross sales and a substantial 4 percent increase in the average retail sale.
Despite a modest 2 percent dip in the number of units sold, the overall performance was evidence of independent jewelers’ continued resilience.
However, the broader diamond market (including both natural and lab-grown diamonds) witnessed an 8 percent decline in gross sales, primarily impacted by a significant setback in the bridal categories.
Specifically, gross sales fell 15 percent in the segment comprising loose diamonds, semi-mounts, completed diamond engagement rings, and wedding bands.
This decline was accompanied by a 4 percent drop in units sold and a noteworthy 12 percent decrease in the average retail sale.
Conversely, the diamond fashion sector remained relatively stable, with no change in gross sales and a marginal 2 percent decrease in units sold.
Notably, the average retail sale in this category demonstrated a positive trend, increasing by 2 percent.
The colored stone and pearl categories experienced a slight downturn, with a slightly more than 1 percent decrease in gross sales and an 11 percent drop in units sold.
Despite these challenges, there was an encouraging 11 percent upturn in average retail sale.
In contrast, the sterling silver and alternative metals categories faced declines across key performance indicators, registering a 12 percent drop in gross sales, an 8 percent decrease in units sold, and a 4 percent decline in average retail sale.
The repair and custom jewelry segment, however, exhibited promising results, with a commendable 10 percent increase in gross sales, a 4 percent rise in units sold, and a 6 percent boost in the average retail sale.
A standout performer in the market was the watch category, showcasing an impressive 28 percent surge in gross sales and a remarkable 31 percent increase in the average retail sale.
Although units sold experienced a slight 2 percent decrease, the overall performance highlighted the strength and appeal of this particular segment.
Independent jewelers are navigating a diamond-shifting holiday season, with fashion, watches, and repair services shining brighter than ever.
While bridal dreams face a chill, these unexpected heroes are reminding us that holiday sparkle comes in many forms.
The Latest

He retired last month after 28 years traveling the world to source the very best gemstones for his family’s jewelry business, Oscar Heyman.

The charm necklace features six nautical charms of shells and coral that founder Christina Puchi collected on Florida’s beaches.

The organization elected its youngest vice president as it looks to draw in fresh talent.

The Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship from Jewelers of America returns for a second year.

Campbell joins the company as vice president of business development while Liebler is the new vice president of operations.


The medals feature a split-texture design highlighting the Games’ first time being hosted by two cities and the athletes’ journeys.

Sponsored by The INSTORE Jewelry Show 2025

The countdown is on for the JCK Las Vegas Show and JA is pulling out all the stops.

Globally, travel and transportation brands reigned, while in the U.S., alcoholic beverage companies and a lingerie brand took the top spots.

The Brooklyn-based jewelry designer is remembered as a true artist and a rare talent.

Production at the mine in Canada’s Northwest Territories topped 1 million carats in Q2, the third consecutive quarter of growth.

A new slate of Learning Workshops will take place in Oklahoma, Mississippi, and Georgia.

The middle class is changing its approach to buying jewelry and affordable luxury goods, the NRF said.

It marks the third consecutive quarter of growth for Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Buccellati, and Vhernier.

The reseller’s market trends report, based on its sales data, also shows exactly how much Rolex prices have jumped since 2010.

The auction house will be hosting a retrospective paying tribute to jeweler Jean Dinh Van and his company’s 60th anniversary.

Jake Duneier and Danielle Duneier-Goldberg have stepped into the roles of CEO and president, respectively.

The “Impermanence” collection contemplates nature through the Japanese art of Ikebana (flower arranging) and philosophy of wabi-sabi.

The Texas-based jewelry retailer has set up shop in Tennessee and Arizona.

Eric Ford will step into the role, bringing with him decades of experience.

In addition to improved capabilities, the acquisition will allow the jeweler to offer support to other independent jewelers.

The “Celestial Blue” capsule collection campaign features Olympian Kateryna Sadurska.

The seasonal store, located in Mykonos, Greece, offers exclusive events, personal styling, and curated experiences.

The New England jeweler is hosting a bridal event for the month of August.

The trade-only event will host its debut fair in the Emerald City later this month.

Its sessions will focus on inventory strategies, staff performance, retention and acquisition, emerging market trends, and more.

For its 10th anniversary, Miseno designed the “Arco” earrings based on the Arco Felice, an arch conceptualized in A.D. 95 in Miseno, Italy.