ColumnistsDec 13, 2023
On Data: Independent Jewelers Shine Bright in Early DecemberColumnistsDec 21, 2023
On Data: Subdued Sales in the Second Week of December
Independent jewelers’ sales increased 1 percent from Dec. 7-14 and some interesting trends emerged, Sherry Smith writes.
Sherry Smith is director of business development for data and consulting company The Edge Retail Academy. She can be reached at sherry@edgeretailacademy.com.
The sparkle of the holiday season often illuminates trends within the jewelry market, particularly among our independent jewelers.
This year, from Dec. 7 to 14, the glimmer was somewhat subdued, with just a 1 percent increase in overall gross sales.
However, behind this seemingly modest figure lies a captivating narrative of category performance, shifts in price points and evolving consumer preferences, all of which provide valuable insights into the market’s ever-changing landscape.
Traditionally, diamonds have long been synonymous with holiday sparkle, but this year, their brilliance shines a bit differently for independent jewelers.
From Dec. 7 to 14, a 3 percent decline in overall gross sales belies a fascinating tapestry of contrasting performances within the diamond category.
Bridal pieces, once guaranteed bestsellers, take a backseat, while diamond fashion jewelry takes center stage, prompting us to ask, what trends are shaping consumer desires and how are independent jewelers adapting?
While overall unit sales dipped 5 percent, the average retail sale climbed 6 percent, suggesting a possible strategic shift towards higher-value items.
Diamonds performed unevenly, with fashion jewelry sales rising 3 percent but bridal dragging down the category with a 10 percent decline.
While data remains somewhat limited, initial findings indicate a decline in the frequency of weddings and engagements in 2023 when contrasted with 2022.
This trend may be further influenced by the fact that contemporary couples, particularly millennial and Gen Z couples, increasingly are embracing alternative relationship models.
Many are opting for non-formalized engagement or marriage arrangements, prioritizing diverse life goals such as career advancement, travel, and personal growth, all of which take precedence over early matrimony.
Predicting a rebound to pre-pandemic engagement levels is tricky. While economic recovery and industry adaptation could spark a resurgence, evolving values and flexible relationship models may keep the numbers closer to current trends.
Related stories will be right here …
This year, from Dec. 7 to 14, the glimmer was somewhat subdued, with just a 1 percent increase in overall gross sales.
However, behind this seemingly modest figure lies a captivating narrative of category performance, shifts in price points and evolving consumer preferences, all of which provide valuable insights into the market’s ever-changing landscape.
Traditionally, diamonds have long been synonymous with holiday sparkle, but this year, their brilliance shines a bit differently for independent jewelers.
From Dec. 7 to 14, a 3 percent decline in overall gross sales belies a fascinating tapestry of contrasting performances within the diamond category.
Bridal pieces, once guaranteed bestsellers, take a backseat, while diamond fashion jewelry takes center stage, prompting us to ask, what trends are shaping consumer desires and how are independent jewelers adapting?
While overall unit sales dipped 5 percent, the average retail sale climbed 6 percent, suggesting a possible strategic shift towards higher-value items.
Diamonds performed unevenly, with fashion jewelry sales rising 3 percent but bridal dragging down the category with a 10 percent decline.
While data remains somewhat limited, initial findings indicate a decline in the frequency of weddings and engagements in 2023 when contrasted with 2022.
This trend may be further influenced by the fact that contemporary couples, particularly millennial and Gen Z couples, increasingly are embracing alternative relationship models.
Many are opting for non-formalized engagement or marriage arrangements, prioritizing diverse life goals such as career advancement, travel, and personal growth, all of which take precedence over early matrimony.
Predicting a rebound to pre-pandemic engagement levels is tricky. While economic recovery and industry adaptation could spark a resurgence, evolving values and flexible relationship models may keep the numbers closer to current trends.
Colored stones and pearls faced headwinds, dropping 3 percent in gross sales and nearly 9 percent in units, although the average retail sale edged up 7 percent.
Sterling silver and alternative metals, traditionally popular holiday choices, stumbled with an 11 percent decline in both gross sales and units. However, the average retail sale inched up 5 percent, potentially reflecting the removal of lower price points.
Watches continue to shine this December, boasting an impressive 9 percent surge in gross sales and an impressive 15 percent uptick in average retail price, even in the face of a 5 percent decrease in units sold.
There were bright spots in the service categories as well, defying an 11 percent drop in units serviced with a commendable 3 percent rise in gross sales, primarily attributable to a remarkable 15 percent increase in average retail sale.
Overall, despite economic uncertainties, independent jewelers continue to demonstrate resilience and adaptability. The focus on higher-ticket items and diversification across categories holds promise for a strong finish to the holiday season and beyond.
As the independent jewelry market stands at a pivotal juncture, the decisions taken in this critical moment hold the power to shape its future.
Will the emphasis on premium items persist? Will diversification of product categories yield success? Only time will tell.
What remains undeniable is that independent jewelers, with their resilience and adaptability, are ready to craft the narrative that lies ahead.
More on Columnists
The Latest
EditorsMar 16, 2026
2026 Oscars Jewelry: One Necklace After AnotherNatalie Francisco rounds up the top Oscars jewels, including Rose Byrne’s Taffin necklace with a more than 20-carat yellow-brown diamond.
WatchesMar 16, 2026
TAG Heuer Has a New CEOBéatrice Goasglas has been with TAG Heuer since 2018. She is the first woman to head the 166-year-old, LVMH-owned watch brand.
IndependentsMar 16, 2026
Ben Bridge Debuts New Honolulu BoutiqueThe store features the first in-store build for the jeweler’s in-house “Bella Ponte” bridal brand.
Brought to you by
Is This You? Every Jeweler Has This Problem; We Have the Solution.Every jeweler faces the same challenge: helping customers protect what they love. Here’s the solution designed for today’s jewelry business.
AuctionsMar 16, 2026
Bonhams Paris To Offer Antique, Signed Jewels The live fine jewelry auction will take place later this week, showcasing antique pieces, rare gemstones, and signed jewels.
Weekly QuizMar 12, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
CollectionsMar 13, 2026
A Trio of Jewels from the 3 Gem Award Nominees for Jewelry DesignOur Pieces of the Week honor the 2026 nominees for the Gem Award for Jewelry Design, Silvia Furmanovich, Cece Fein-Hughes, and Catherine Sarr.
WatchesMar 13, 2026
Citizen, Vera Wang to Launch Watch CollectionThe 24-piece watch collection is set to debut in spring 2027.
Brought to you by
DCA Enters a New Chapter in Jewelry EducationWith refreshed branding, a new website, updated courses, and a pathway for growth, DCA is dedicated to supporting retail staff development.
SourcingMar 13, 2026
Andrea Pooler Joins Third-Generation Diamond Company as COO Pooler, who has more than 25 years’ experience in jewelry, is now chief operating officer of Modani Jewels, Soham Diamonds, and SNJ Creations.
MajorsMar 13, 2026
24 Karat Club of New York’s Banquet to Return to Waldorf AstoriaThe reopening of the Waldorf Astoria means a homecoming for the industry group’s annual event, which will take place Saturday.
CollectionsMar 12, 2026
Jessica McCormack Sends Gold, Gemstones Into ‘Orbit’McCormack looked to the 19th century’s “golden age” of astronomy when designing her new celestial-themed collection.
Events & AwardsMar 12, 2026
Johnny Nelson Wins David Yurman Gem Awards GrantNelson will be honored as the inaugural grant winner at the Gem Awards gala on Friday.
TechnologyMar 12, 2026
Caratwise Launches, Names Former Signet Exec CEO The new smart design software allows jewelers to configure, price, and confirm a custom engagement ring in real time for in-store customers.
SourcingMar 12, 2026
Grandview Klein Opens New Factory in South Africa The 10,000-square-foot diamond manufacturing facility officially opened in late February and employs 50 people.
Events & AwardsMar 12, 2026
MJSA ‘Future of Jewelry Making’ Scholarship Applications OpenThe MJSA Education Foundation’s scholarships support students pursuing jewelry careers.
AuctionsMar 11, 2026
‘Spectacular’ 26-Carat Diamond Going Up for Auction in London The largest white diamond to come to market in the U.K. in more than a decade, the VVS1, I-color stone is expected to top $1 million.
TechnologyMar 11, 2026
Cast Jewelry’s Rachel Skelly on Coming Back Online Only Skelly shares her plans for reimagining the fine jewelry retailer she re-acquired after it faltered last year.
CollectionsMar 11, 2026
Pyrrha Highlights ‘The Space Between’ In New CollectionThe collection takes inspiration from the emotional space between people, moments, and experiences.
IndependentsMar 11, 2026
From the Jazz Age to the Information Age: London Jewelers Turns 100In 2026, the jewelry retailer is celebrating a milestone only a small percentage of family-owned businesses survive to see.
IndependentsMar 11, 2026
Virginia Jewelers Raise Nearly $30K for Children’s HospitalThe group of jewelers held a jewelry raffle in support of the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU.
FinancialsMar 10, 2026
Signet Jewelers’ Q4 Sales Fall Flat The jewelry giant released preliminary results for the fourth quarter and full year on Monday, with final results slated to come next week.
MajorsMar 10, 2026
Saks Global to Close 15 More StoresThe retailer also gave an update on its vendor partnerships.
TrendsMar 10, 2026
Messika Names Julianne Moore as AmbassadorThe award-winning actress is the “epitome of modern allure,” the brand said.
CollectionsMar 10, 2026
Gemstones ‘Bloom’ in Sorellina’s New CollectionThe “Bloom” collection draws from the flower power movement of the 1960s and ‘70s with inlay pendants offered in eight colorways.
Events & AwardsMar 10, 2026
Diamond-Studded Painting Shines at RJO Foundation AuctionThe unique piece was one of the custom works offered at the foundation's recent silent art auction, which garnered nearly $15,000 in total.
TrendsMar 09, 2026
Jake Gyllenhaal Is Bulgari’s Latest AmbassadorBulgari named Gyllenhaal as its brand ambassador for his embodiment of artistic depth, intellectual curiosity, and warmth.
Events & AwardsMar 09, 2026
TJS Announces 2026 Scholarship WinnersAwards were given to four students, one apprentice, and an emerging jeweler.
