In an uncertain economy, cautious fashion consumers tend to stay with the basics and the "tried-and-true," rather than gamble on risky new styles. That's why buyers at the recent JCK Show in  Las Vegas -- the industry's biggest U.S. jewelry show -- were interested in more subdued, fundamental styles this year than bolder fashions.
Take diamonds, for example. Bridal jewelry is still the major focus for most jewelers today -- their "bread and butter" category -- as more couples than ever have decided to tie the knot following  the tragedy of last Sept. 11.
Right now, bigger is better in terms of diamond size, according to show exhibitors. But if you can't afford a big rock (1 carat or more), don't worry. The trend is toward quality in terms of color, clarity and cut. In other words, you don't necessarily have to shop for your diamond by size: instead, find the best color, clarity and cut you can afford, and make carat weight the last consideration.
Incidentally, antique cuts and settings are particularly hot in bridal right now, as people in times of stress get nostalgic for things that symbolize a simpler, safer time, industry experts believe.
As for non-bridal diamond jewelry, mainstay pieces like diamond stud earrings and diamond hoops saw healthy sales. Additionally, three-stone items such as earrings, pendants and bracelets were very strong at the show, with many consumers looking for pieces that match their three-stone anniversary or engagement rings.
In colored stones, blue reigns supreme right now -- and in all shades. The most popular blue stones include aquamarine, blue topaz, sapphire and tanzanite. Jewelers at the show also said that turquoise -- an opaque blue stone associated with Native American jewelry -- has been red hot this year. Coral is another stone that has caught on with shoppers this year, according to some show exhibitors.
In precious metals, the "white" look is still highly fashionable, with both basic and |
