Diamonds may last forever but consumer tastes have noticeably pivoted towards coloured gemstones. This shift was initially driven by the continued high prices of natural diamonds which inspired consumers to look for more affordable, high quality options. Gemstones have opened up a range of possibilities for jewellers and attracted new customers, particularly Millennials who were born in the era of blood diamonds. High quality gemstones are found in Latin America, Asia and Africa, where Zambia’s reputation as a producer of some of the finest gemstones is growing.
The traditional diamond engagement ring favoured by Baby Boomers and Gen Xers is being shunned by Millennials