Jewelry Purchasing Trends Post COVID-19
As Americans, we continue to charge through the pandemic, trying to find some light—and fun jewelry to go with our tie-dye sweatshirts and work-from-home’s best. It doesn’t make sense to extravagantly spend on luxurious vacations and spas right now, or necessarily even buy new date-night outfits, so our pendants, earrings, and statement rings will have to be enough. And when this all does start to come to a close, I think I can safely forecast this: We’re going to go big, bold, glamorous, and sentimental. Because life—as we’ve come to realize it—is way too short to live and dress modestly.
Marie Claire sees big 80s-inspired earrings and gold Cleopatra-esque chokers in our future, which ties in with my outlook, and I love it!
However, there is more to trend forecasting than just my opinion and “going big.” After doing a little bit of research, it looks like practices will shift, completely new looks will pop up, and customers will embrace other new behaviors when it comes to the art of accessorizing. So, let’s investigate a few of the trends the majority of jewelry purchasers might be diving into as the pandemic settles.
Investment Essentials
The number one thing consumers will be doing towards the end of this time in history is making smart buys and investments. This is certain, given patterns following The Great Depression. Thinking things through and evaluating every buy with precision and foresight is going to be the new normal for many of us. Hence, there will be a resurgence in classics like this pair of white gold solitaire-stud earrings, which uses the Leo First Light Diamonds.
Or, how about a matching pendant-and-earring set? This clover duet from MJJ Brilliant in 14k yellow gold is a timeless duo.
Going Local
With a new understanding of the risks involved from importing objects from overseas, Forbes predicts luxury buyers will begin to purchase locally. The publication writes: “A less efficient phase of globalization might be dawning. Luxury goods players would need to continue to balance sales internationally, but they would also need to tighten their link with their place of origin (re-shoring manufacturing) and start keeping buffer inventories in each region or even country.”
On some level, it seems a level of trust has dwindled, and buying closer to home is where most people’s comfort resides now—and where it will likely be for a while. With that said, we look to New York Legend David Webb. The designer’s high-jewelry business might really take off simply due to the fact that he still manufactures all of his jewelry in the Big Apple, and has been doing so since the 1940s. I mean, these fire-opal earrings complete with rectangular-cut pink tourmalines, cabochon rubies, turquoise, and diamonds are pretty irresistible.
Playful and Colorful
As I mentioned earlier, the fine jewelry business has been thriving on the fact that women are finding reprieve and excitement in matching their off-duty outfits with fun baubles. This includes colored gemstones that pop and—well—spark a little bit of joy. This particular Enchanted Disney Fine Jewelry Collection pendant features a sterling silver and diamond-encrusted Tinker Bell at work with a stunning green tourmaline in her yellow gold-embellished wand—and pompom slippers, of course. I love this piece because the legendary Disney character represents the perfect amount of youthful excitement. It just has this hopeful, elegant element to it that can be worn and cherished by all.
Crafted with precision and love, the Enchanted Disney Fine Jewelry Collection bridal collection pays homage to authenticity and the celebration of true romance with engagement rings, earrings, rings, and pendants covered in diamonds and 14k two-toned gold inspired by the essences of the various Disney Princesses.
Another whimsical piece is Cinderella’s glass slipper, symbolic of a kind, pure heart, and always believing that dreams can come true. But it’s the rings that are the true stars of the Disney Princesses collection. This dramatic 14K White and Yellow Gold Majestic Princess Tiara Ring could easily become a family heirloom to be passed down to future generations of Disney lovers.
Peering Into the Past
Another trend on the rise now, and one I believe will continue well into the post-Covid days, is a fascination with vintage pieces—either reimagined or left in their original form. The Zoe Report came out with a powerful piece about Ashley Zhang’s “resilient” line of gems and “forever” pieces that are apparently being used to pull people through these tough times. Buyers will continue to look for meaningful pieces they can admire forever and pass down. Investing in something personal and historical is just part of the whole “survivor” mentality, I think.
With that said, LA-based Jenna Blake’s collection of vintage treasures is small but mighty. This deco-inspired fringe necklace features diamonds and turquoise, and captures everything I love about a fine heirloom piece. It has personality, but can transcend the years.
However you decide to transition your summer wardrobe into fall this season, there are no rules—so don’t be afraid to go brilliant and bold with your jewelry!
About The Author
Debbie Azar is the Co-Founder and President of Gemological Science International (GSI), one of the largest gemological organizations in the world, and a distinguished leader in the global diamond and jewelry industry. As an executive with extensive knowledge of the jewelry and gem lab industries, her entrepreneurial skills and vision have helped GSI achieve rapid and continuous growth worldwide, establishing 13 leading-edge gemological facilities on four continents. She currently serves on the boards of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee, Responsible Jewellery Council, and Jewelers for Children, and is a member of the 24 Karat Club of New York. She has been featured in Forbes, Daily Mail, Good Morning America, Bloomberg, Bloomberg Businessweek, Fox Business, Fox5, CBS2, BOLDTV, Varney&Co, The Street, and NASDAQ, among others.
