(NEW YORK) – Natural Diamond Council (NDC) conducted broad diamond desirability research through 360 Market Reach in the final quarter of 2020. Information was gathered from 5,000 respondents from 18- to 39-years-old. The analysis showed diamond jewelry leading as the most highly desired, and tangible luxury good overall (after being prompted with nine luxury items from which to choose if money were not a concern). Vacations were the only luxury items ahead of diamond jewelry for both Millennial and Gen-Z respondents. The group largely attribute their affinity for diamonds to uniqueness, as 70% agreed natural diamonds are “one of a kind.” Another area of value for respondents was the symbolism diamonds carry for love and connection.
Both Millennials and Gen-Z buy natural diamond jewelry for themselves and others as gifts. One in five respondents had made a luxury jewelry purchase within the last 24 months, half of those included natural diamonds. Half of these natural diamond jewelry purchases were made for themselves, largely driven by female consumers (72%). The women cited design, versatility and long-term style and value as the most important factors when making the purchase for themselves.
Almost 80% of purchasers had bought diamond jewelry as a gift in the last 24 months. This was largely led by men, often gifting significant others. Women said they purchased diamond gifts for their mothers, children and sometimes their significant other. The leading reason for gifting diamonds across groups was for their lasting value. While the majority of diamond jewelry purchases were mostly centered around a life event or occasion, approximately 25% of purchases were for no specific reason. The future for fine jewelry purchasing is bright as 37% of respondents intend to buy fine jewelry in the next 12 months and 27% expect to receive it. 20% of these respondents say they will either definitely or probably purchase natural diamond jewelry specifically and 12% claim they expect to receive it as a gift. These future purchases will largely be affected by social media platforms where Millennials and Gen-Z often obtain shopping inspiration.
The analysis reveals further that consumers very commonly research diamond jewelry before making a purchase. Consumers sought out four to five retail touch points on average before purchasing. Most of this research was conducted online at 2.6 touch points being online and two being in-person. 66% of respondents compared pricing online, 26% looked for social media advice and inspiration, and 24% read articles for tips. 96% of the group is active on social media and 36% of respondents said they would consult social media platforms for ideas and advice prior to purchasing diamond jewelry. Most of the actual purchases occurred in-store, however 28% were made online in the last 24 months. Of the retail purchases, most were made at independent jewelry stores rather than nationally known jewelry stores.
Natural Diamond Council conducted this survey to track the desirability of diamonds and reinforce the sustainability of the category. Consumer focus on items that carry emotional symbolism and value is heightened during this period as the country continues to endure the effects of the pandemic. The results show Millennials and Gen-Z both have a strong relationship to diamond jewelry where it is an inspirational luxury good, high on their wish lists.
For a full analysis of the report, please click here.
The Natural Diamond Council advances diamonds’ desirability by publishing in-depth and engaging features and trend reports, and sharing resources and information with consumers on the ultimate timelessness and singularity of natural diamonds. The NDC also works to support the integrity of the natural diamond industry, providing transparency, and insight on the ethics, sustainability and progress of the sector. Learn more at naturaldiamonds.com.
