Jewel360 has released its State of the Jewelry Industry Report, detailing how independent retailers blend digital engagement with hands-on service to drive sales. The findings highlight a clear division between online discovery and in-person purchasing.
Nick Gurney, general manager of Jewel360, explained that while customers increasingly explore options through digital platforms, the actual buying decision remains rooted in personal interaction. He said the customer journey is becoming increasingly digital, but the purchase experience remains deeply personal.
Yellow gold remains the dominant metal choice, reported by 94% of respondents, while 90% say custom requests are increasing. Of those custom projects, 65% involve heirloom redesigns.
The bridal market is seeing a notable shift toward lab-grown diamonds. Three-quarters of bridal retailers expect these stones to represent more than half of engagement-ring sales this year, and 85% of retailers now carry both lab-grown and natural diamonds, while only 9% remain natural-only.
Operational challenges remain significant. Seventy-six percent of respondents cite rising prices for metals and gemstones as their top concern heading into 2027. Other challenges include staffing (38%), economic uncertainty (37%), and maintaining fresh inventory (27%).
Despite these pressures, 84% of surveyed retailers expect business growth this year, including many long-established stores with more than 40 years in operation.
Sales data shows customers are making fewer purchases but spending more. Comparing Q1 2025 to Q1 2026, transaction volume declined 15%, while average ticket value increased 26% to $322.
Jewel360 will discuss these trends at its second Retail Jewel Summit on August 5, a virtual event for independent jewellers, industry partners, and experts to explore the future of jewellery retail and the latest innovations.
