Fine Jewelry Trend Report
Fresh from a jewelry trade show in Chicago, and an interview with a renowned author and jewelry stylist, Lee Krombholz gives us an overview of emerging trends.

Author and jewelry stylist, Beth Bernstein

I had a wonderful conversation with author and jewelry stylist, Beth Bernstein, at the Smart Jewelry Show last weekend. Her conversation is passionate and 100 miles an hour. So, I was rapidly writing in my note pad, trying to keep up. We primarily discussed trends, but my questions to her weren't about what has been happening over the last year. I wanted to learn more about the trends that are emerging - or at least strengthening - specifically on the Fine Jewelry front. Here are some of her observations.

Bridal
Colored diamonds, rose cut diamonds and polished rough diamonds in engagement rings are strong. The mountings for these can be anything from very organic, like Just Jules, to clean and simple.

The use of stacking rings as a combination of engagement and wedding rings are on the rise. Also the use of one wider diamond band as a combination of engagement and wedding ring has been growing in popularity.

Vintage
Vintage continues to be the buzz word in the whole jewelry world and this trend does not seem to be slowing. While much of this vintage styling tends to be a blending of many periods, the two that are most dominant are Art Deco (circa 1920 through the early 40s) for white metal jewelry and Retro (circa 1940 and through the 50’s) for yellow and rose metals. All metal choices are active, however, white metals are by far dominant with no signs of weakening.

Just Jules stack rings

Moonstones
Moonstones are exploding in use in all categories. This color neutral and ethereal feeling gemstone works well with the vintage styles as well as the organics.

Brooches
Brooches have grown in interest partly because of their versatility as hair ornamentation and drops on necklaces.

Art Nouveau
Art Nouveau styled jewelry (Circa 1895 to 1915) has gained in importance amongst designers partly to coordinate with the trend of naturalistic prints. Also, a return to this periods' use of non-precious and alternative materials such as wood and horn, enamel for color and layered gemstone for bold looks without the expense are all trending by designers.

Personalization
Personalization has been popular in all categories. "The Knot," a popular online source for brides, reported in their presentation that custom designed engagement and wedding ring is the number one category over the importance branded designers. This was by far the biggest buzz at the Smart Jewelry Show.

Goshwara mandarin garnet, rubellite earrings

Vibrant Colors

The colors that are trending include blues, greens and oranges. What is different about the colors is the strength of the tone. The trend here is toward stronger tones of blue as in sapphire and emerald in the green tones. One of the new spins on these two precious stones is rose cuts or slices.

Orange tones, especially tangerine, have been trending and I admired some beautiful jewels from the designer Goshwara.

Layered Bracelets
The layered bracelet trend is a switch from the wide cuffs that have been popular for years. Now designers are stacking multiple bracelets for a still powerful look, but a look that is a little more bohemian or messy.

Watch the photo montage video below for more emerging trends in fine jewelry.

This is a special advertising supplement, paid for by Krombholz Jewelers.

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