Diamond jewelry is the ultimate expression of sophistication, style, and class. Indeed, this is one beauty accessory that will never go out of style. It could explain why the market value stays on an upward trajectory.
As of 2021, the global jewelry market share was $249.02 billion. Industry experts expect a CAGR growth of 8.5% until the year 2030. Demand for jewelry is due to increasing disposable income.
Innovative jewelry designs and positive consumer perception is also boosting the market. Men are also becoming a key market due to their acceptance of jewelry.
As stated, innovation is a driving factor in the diamond jewelry business. The sector is a trendsetter in the modern fashion industry. So what are some of the interesting trends dominating the scene?
Statement Pieces
The best expression of class and sophistication is often surrounded by subtlety. It leans towards minimalistic aesthetics. We are talking about tiny diamond stud earrings that sit flush against the ears. Or, simple diamond engagement rings with a stunning yet toned-down setting and cut. The same applies to diamond pendants, wedding sets, and much more.
But, the jewelry fashion industry is changing.
The statement ‘go bold or go home’ is establishing roots in modern fashion. Statement pieces are becoming the new trend. Diamond jewelry is no longer an accessory for a special night out or when you need to dress up. Indeed it is now an everyday accessory that you put on anytime.
Let’s take the example of diamond bracelets. It is an accessory that both men and women can wear at any time. A popular entrant in the fashion industry is the diamond tennis bracelet. The arrangement of the precious stones encircling the wrist is eye-catching. It speaks of elegance and sophistication.
The design elements make the tennis bracelet ideal for physical activities. Indeed, Chris Evert, the 1987 US Open tennis champion, donned one during the game.
Another statement piece is diamond-encrusted cuffs. Who would argue about the power of such a statement piece to add glamour to any outfit?
Perfect Imperfection in Diamond Jewelry
Perfect imperfection may apply to art. The premise is that the parts do not have to fit in perfect symmetry and neither do they have to fall within specific confines to work.
A good example would be abstract art. There is no conformity to the standard rules of lines or arrangement of elements. But, the mishmash results in amazing artworks that can sell for millions of dollars. The most expensive abstract art is Willem de Kooning’s $300 million landscape painting.
Now innovative diamond designs are borrowing some of the aspects. There is a trend that incorporates mismatching diamonds. There is a perfect combination of imperfect diamond cuts. It sounds like quite a mouthful, but this is how it goes.
The designer takes different diamond cuts. Such include round, pear-shaped, oval, radiant, etc. He then creates a piece out of it. So, imagine a diamond necklace, engagement ring, or tennis bracelet with different cuts and colors.
The result is a stunning piece that expresses one’s unique style and personality. Such designs embody a free spirit that does not conform to the standard rules.
Vintage Style Diamonds Are Making a Comeback
The fashion industry keeps evolving and revolving. Vintage diamond cuts are finding their way back. The main cuts dominating the scene are briolette and rose. Vintage cuts are subtle and very sophisticated. Indeed they are the go-to choice for those who still want to stick to minimalism. It is more about the quiet or understated aesthetic expression of beauty.
Rose-cut diamonds were popular in the Victorian and Georgian ages. The rose shape is a result of intricate hand cutting. It was and still is common to find the design on engagement rings. And now you can find the same cut on multi-colored diamonds.
The designers will also put in other gemstones. Imagine colorful sapphires around the diamond centerpiece. You get an explosion of color and elegance that combines a touch of vintage and modern.
The briolette cut results in a chandelier effect. It is quite common with pear-shaped diamonds. Its ability to reflect light from all angles makes it so attractive. The cut looks great on drop earrings and necklaces.
Focus On Sustainability
The modern consumer is becoming more conscious of sustainability. And, the diamond industry is stepping up to meet the demands of such customers.
Diamond mining has negative implications on the environment. The same applies to the lives of those who have to do the work. Statistics show that as many as 3.4 million deaths are due to diamond mining.
Lab-grown diamonds are now quite popular in the diamond jewelry industry. The production happens in a lab, thus no impact on the environment or humans.
Indeed some celebrities are catching on to the lab-grown diamond trends. Notable names include Meghan Markle, Rihanna, Jennifer Hudson, Lady Gaga, and Jennifer Lopez.
The actor Leonardo DiCaprio took it a step further. He invested in a start-up that produces lab-grown diamonds.
Diamond Jewelry Restoration
Another emerging trend is the recycling or restoration of existing pieces. Some diamond jewelers are offering such services to clients. Customers bring vintage pieces of jewelry that may have been sitting idle in a box.
The designers then come up with ideas on what to do with a piece. They take into consideration the customer’s preferences and specifications.
In the end, the customer gets to keep the jewelry they love. But, the final output brings in some subtle touches of modernity.
Final Thoughts
We have looked at some interesting trends within the diamond fashion industry. The maximalist look is replacing minimalism with bold statement pieces. In the true spirit of fashion, the old is making a comeback. Vintage styles are elegant, and we can expect them to stay around for a long time.
Sustainability is becoming a key concern amongst consumers. The diamond industry has the perfect solution in the form of lab-grown diamonds.
Designers are also allowing their creativity a little more freedom. The mixing of different cuts and colors results in stunning diamond pieces.
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