In an interview with JCK Online, Lisa Ingram of Kay Jewelers said that while the brand isn’t abandoning natural diamonds, there’s no denying consumer desire for lab-created diamond jewellery.
“Lab-created diamonds aren’t just an alternative anymore. Today’s shoppers aren’t just following tradition; they’re choosing rings that feel right for them, and for a growing number, that means lab-created,” she said.
“Many couples gravitate toward 1.5 to 2 carats, but with lab-created diamonds, they’re able to go even bigger while staying within budget. The $3,000 to $5,000 range remains a sweet spot, striking the right balance of quality, size, and value.”
Signet Jewelers is the world's largest retailer of diamond jewelry. It owns Kay Jewelers, Zales, Jared, and James Allen, among others. However, the company recently reported a sales decline after a challenging holiday period.
In June, former CEO Virginia C Drosos emphasised the significance of lab-created diamonds in the retailer's plans, highlighting their value in fashion jewellery.
“Today’s shoppers are rewriting the traditional bridal formula. Modern couples aren’t just looking for a beautiful ring — they want something that feels personal, tells their story, and fits their lifestyle,” Ingram added.
“[Natural diamonds] continue to hold a strong appeal, especially for those who love the idea of a stone formed over millions of years. Many couples see them as an investment in tradition and rarity. On the other hand, lab-created diamond buyers tend to be more focused on maximising size and sparkle for their budget.”
Current Signet Jewelers CEO J.K. Symancyk recently detailed a 30 per cent increase in lab-created diamond jewellery sales.
Note: Jeweller has published two special editions surrounding the debate about man-made diamonds which address this topic from a range of perspectives.
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