The diamond and gemstone world is shifting, and our latest surveys at CaratX reveal some truly eye-opening insights. We asked people from different age groups what they value most when choosing jewelry. Whether you’re just starting to explore trends or have been a lifelong fan of sparkle, these findings can help you understand today’s gem market in a simple, straightforward way.

In this detailed blog, we’ll cover:

What our surveys discovered among different age groups

What young buyers, innovators, and traditionalists look for in jewelry

How social media and online trends are shaping the industry

What these insights mean for brands, retailers, and the supply chain

Let’s dive into the trends that are setting the future of diamonds and gemstones.

What Did Our Surveys Reveal?

At CaratX, we gathered insights using focus groups, in-depth interviews, and online polls with participants from around the globe. Here’s a breakdown of what different generations said:

Gen Z: The Young Trendsetters

Key Findings:

Sustainability & Ethics: Among 150 Gen Z participants, 72% said they prefer lab-grown diamonds. They feel these are more eco-friendly and ethically sourced.

Unique & Custom Designs: Young buyers are excited by the idea of jewelry that reflects their personal style. They want pieces that are unique—not mass-produced.

These trends show that Gen Z cares about the impact their purchases have on the planet and society. For more on the rise of ethical and sustainable jewelry, check out this Retail Jeweller report on engagement ring trends which discusses how new buying habits are reshaping the industry.

Millennials: The Innovators

Key Findings:

Authenticity & Transparency: In a survey of 200 millennials, 65% stressed that ethical sourcing and clear, trustworthy certifications are essential when buying diamond jewelry.

Willingness to Invest: About 55% of millennials are willing to pay a premium for brands that offer innovative designs and customization options. They want jewelry that is not only beautiful but also tells an honest story.

Millennials value authenticity. They want to know where their diamonds come from and that every gem is certified for quality and ethics. To see more about how innovation and transparency are influencing consumer choices, visit an article on InStyle’s celebrity engagement ring trends which offers a look into how modern design is taking over.

Older Generations: The Traditionalists

Key Findings:

Natural Beauty & Heritage: Among 100 participants aged 50 and above, 80% still prefer natural diamonds. They cherish the history, craftsmanship, and legacy behind traditional pieces.

Growing Acceptance of Lab-Grown Gems: Even in this group, there’s a gradual openness to lab-grown diamonds, especially when these come with robust quality standards.

Older buyers may stick to what’s classic, but many appreciate the benefits of modern alternatives if they can trust the quality. This blend of tradition and innovation is becoming more common across the market.

Social Media & Online Conversations

Our online surveys and social media polls reveal that discussions about sustainability, ethical sourcing, and customization are trending. Here are some highlights:

Trending Topics: On platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn, posts that discuss eco-friendly practices and personalized designs get a lot of interaction. People are excited about transparency in how their diamonds are made.

Certification is Crucial: Nearly 70% of our respondents said that clear, trusted certification plays a huge role in their buying decisions. Knowing a diamond meets high ethical and quality standards builds trust.

For more industry perspectives on the growing importance of ethical sourcing and certification, you can explore discussions on sites like JCK Online which often features expert opinions on these topics.

What Do These Insights Mean for the Industry?

For Retailers & Brands

Be Transparent: Make sure every piece of jewelry comes with clear documentation about its origin and ethical sourcing. Consumers today want to know the full story behind their gems.

Offer Custom Options: Allow buyers to design jewelry that fits their unique style. Customization is a major selling point among younger audiences.

For the Supply Chain

Innovate in Traceability: Invest in digital tools that can track the journey of each gem from mine to market. Improved traceability builds consumer trust and can drive growth.

Efficient Inventory Management: As demand shifts towards lab-grown and ethically sourced gems, modernizing your inventory systems can give you a competitive edge.

For Industry Leaders

Mix Tradition with Innovation: While natural diamonds still hold a special place for many, there’s a clear trend toward innovative, ethical alternatives. A balanced approach that honors heritage while embracing new methods will set brands apart.

Focus on Certification: With almost 70% of buyers demanding clear certification, ensuring that every gem is backed by trusted standards is crucial for building long-term customer loyalty.

For a deeper dive into industry reports and trends, check out recent updates on Retail Jeweller and InStyle, which offer regular insights and analyses on the evolving diamond market.

The diamond and gemstone market is evolving as never before. Our CaratX surveys show that while older generations still treasure the classic appeal of natural diamonds, Gen Z and millennials are leading the charge with their demand for sustainability, ethical sourcing, and innovative, customizable designs. By understanding these trends, brands and retailers can better connect with consumers, creating a more transparent, engaging, and thriving market.

What are your thoughts on these trends? How do you see the future of diamonds and gemstones evolving? Let’s start the conversation in the comments below!