Jewelry Trend Predictions for 2014

Posted on Jan 21, 2014 in Featured, Trends,

GIA instructors, researchers, and other staffers are responsible for spotting jewelry trends. We’ve asked them to peer into their crystal balls and share their predictions for 2014.

Robert Ackermann, Jewelry Manufacturing Arts instructor:
Blue is going to be hot color in 2014. Consumers will want either de-saturated aquamarines or saturated blue sapphires. The reason: Pantone has named Dazzling Blue (Pantone 18-3949) as a color for spring 2014, and jewelry designers will use similarly colored gemstones. Also, a sluggish economy will continue to polarize the market, sending the middle class looking for more affordable pieces. Manufacturers will meet the demand by using more alternative materials like ceramics.

The Vagabonde Bleue Ring. Copyright Fabergé Ltd.

Doug Glener, writer:
If the movie, Princess Grace of Monaco, is successful at the box office, expect jewelry connoisseurs to wear pieces featured in the film, like the iconic Hen pin.  I’m also seeing the beginnings of a new unisex style – a cross between Steam Punk and post-industrial. Call it Structural Chic.

Kirkawa Live! ring. Photo courtesy of Krikawa.

Kristin Mahan, project manager, PR & communications:
Vintage engagement rings are going to win the hearts of brides-to-be. Several glossy women’s magazines are predicting this, too. Another trend at the altar: Bridesmaids are wearing dresses that complement each other instead of the same one, and this is going to happen with jewelry. Look for bridesmaids to wear jewelry that doesn’t clash, but has similar styles.

Courtesy Leigh Jay Nacht

Mike Magee, Jewelry Manufacturing Arts instructor:
The falling price of 3D printers is going to introduce jewelry making to a new group of hobbyists. In fact, you don’t even have to wait for prices to fall. Shapeways, a company that offers free 3D software, will print your creations. And you can then sell them on its website.

McKenzie Santimer, exhibit developer:
Long chains are going to be in, along with jewelry made accents of unusual materials like plastic and rubber. Jewelry designers will be inspired by paintings by the great masters, and will make them part of their designs.

Russell Shor, senior industry analyst:
Caution will continue to rule the diamond industry. Demand probably will be decent worldwide, but concerns over rough prices, financing and ever-more sophisticated synthetics will dampen the mood of manufacturers and wholesalers. This will drive demand for grading reports for smaller-size stones

The U.S. will probably lead industry growth because India’s and China’s economies remain uncertain. This makes predicting global demand for diamonds and gemstones difficult. The wealthiest, however, will continue to find that rare objects provide a better return than financial markets, so demand for colored diamonds will remain strong.

Peggy Tsiamis, visual resources researcher:
Princess Grace loved roses, and the upcoming movie about her will make the flower even more fashionable. A number of luxury brands like Dior and Montblanc already have been featuring them in their lines. This motif will trickle down to mass-market jewelry. Ear cuffs also look to be getting a hold.

Piaget Rose ring in 18-ct rose gold set with 2 brilliant-cut diamonds and a carved pink opal. Image courtesy of Piaget.

Rose Toser, senior research librarian:
Feathers and feathered-inspired jewelry will be popular. Harry Winston has the Premier Feathers watch line, which has feathers as its faces.

“Dream Feather”, white gold feather ring with white diamonds and blue sapphires with a green tsavorite. Courtesy Crow’s Nest Jewels.

Check back in a year to see how we did!