The Retail Jewelry Industry

In 2000 the consumer market for fine and costume jewelry rose 5% over 1999 levels to total $39.8 billion. Contributing to the growth in the jewelry market is the expanding availability of jewelry at the retail level.

 

 

Jewelry Organizations and Information

 

 

 

National Jeweler

The online extension of National Jeweler magazine, National-Jeweler.com keeps industry professionals up-to-date on current affairs between issues. Provides news-updated daily, an archive featuring thousands of articles, the diamond price report, precious metals prices and in-depth analysis and trend coverage.

 

Professional Jeweler

This site provides great current news and articles about the industry, a guide to industry websites, some current statistics, a classified section, and much more.

 

Jewelers Homepage

Homepage for JNET, a company that provides web resources for jewelry retailers. Can search for products from manufacturers and suppliers and can trade products online. Also provides links to other industry websites, provides an events calendar, and provides contacts for more information.

 

Jewelers Choice

Provides good lists of jewelry organizations and information on line, jewelry search services, industry publications, retailers, suppliers, and other miscellaneous information.

 

American Gem Society

Homepage of the American Gem Society, an association dedicated to setting and maintaining high standards of business ethics and professionalism in the jewelry industry.

 

Jewellery World Centre Homepage

Homepage of the Canadian Jewelry Association -  provides links to their members, information on their services, links to national associations worldwide, and provides a forum for trade and discussion.

 

GemKey - The Gem and Jewelry Industry's Global Marketplace

This webpage provides a forum for jewelry retailers to trade diamonds, colored stones, jewelry, and pearls.

 

International Gemmological Institute

Homepage of the International Gemmological Institute.  The IGI has now developed into the largest independent gem certification and appraisal institute and is renowned for its quality services, extensive experience and know-how.  This webpage provides access to various reports, education opportunities, registration information, and much more.

 

Polygon.Net - The Jewelry Industry's Marketplace

Polygon provides a forum for members of the jewelry industry to buy and sell, exchange information and send private, secure messages to other members.

 

Diamonds.Net - The Internet Diamond Exchange

Provides up-to-date news, reports, and prices regarding the diamond trade. For members, also provides a trading network and dealer information.

 

Ten Largest Jewelry Retailers

 

Walmart

The nations largest jewelry retailer—is now upgrading its jewelry presentation since starting jewelry operations in its Sam’s Club division.

 

Zale Corporation

Has recently realigned executive and divisional management teams, revamped merchandising programs and is currently integrating Piercing Pagoda into its retail business.

 

Sterling Jewelers

Has recently consolidated with Kay Jewelers and is further expanding its Jared The Galleria of Jewelry superstore format.

 

Sears, Roebuck and Company

Sears continues to have stable jewelry sales.

 

Finlay's Fine Jewelry

Reached one billions dollars in sales in the year 2000 and 1,000 retail stores.

 

J.C. Penney

Although J.C. Penney continues to struggle, they have brought in a new CEO and are planning to expand their private label business.

 

QVC

Although known for television sales, QVC has recently entered into an agreement with Target to sell QVC’s signature Diamonique Jewelry, and has opened QVC @ The Mall, in the Mall of America as a prototype for future stores.

 

Tiffany and Company

Jewelry sales continue to be strong for the luxury retailer.

 

Service Merchandise

Although the company continues to struggle and has slashed a number of stores, Service Merchandise has recently expanded its jewelry business.

 

Kmart

Kmart profits have also been down, however its jewelry business has strengthened.

 

*Information on jewelry retailers provided by the June 1, 2000 issue of National Jeweler.

 

Government Resources

 

U.S. Department of Commerce: Bureau of Economic Analysis

An agency of the Department of Commerce, the BEA provides national, industry, international, and regional economic statistics and articles.

 

Federal Trade Commission

This site provides information on trade laws and developments for all industries under the Federal Trade Commission.

 

U.S. Census Bureau

Also part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, the Census Bureau provides detailed data on the people and economy of the United States. 

 

Economics and Statistics Administration: STAT USA

STAT-USA, an agency in the Economics and Statistics Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, provides information produced by the U.S. government concerning economics, business, and international trade.  Although a subscription service, claims to be “One-stop Internet browsing for business, trade, and economic information”.