BusinessPREMIUM

Diamonds are forever and a bit: bumper sales for major brands last year

Bumper sales for major jewellery brands this year.

De Beers' operations spanning Botswana, Namibia, Angola, South Africa and Canada. Picture: MAKSIM SHBEKO/123RF
De Beers' operations spanning Botswana, Namibia, Angola, South Africa and Canada. Picture: MAKSIM SHBEKO/123RF

Diamonds topped the list of quality gifts for loved ones over the festive season, according to some of the country's biggest jewellers.

Larry Brown, creative director at Browns Jewellers, said real diamonds were a favourite, especially at a time of rising gold prices.

As gold prices continue to soar, savvy individuals know it’s the best time to invest in real diamonds. Diamond jewellery offers both intrinsic beauty and lasting value, making real diamonds the most desirable option.

—  Larry Brown, creative director at Browns Jewellers

“As gold prices continue to soar, savvy individuals know it’s the best time to invest in real diamonds. Diamond jewellery offers both intrinsic beauty and lasting value, making real diamonds the most desirable option,” he said.

Real diamonds have come under stiff competition from lab-grown diamonds. which have become popular in the US market.

Brown said that since the Covid pandemic, there had been a profound shift in how people regard their relationships, driving a surge in demand for quality gifts to express love and connection.

“The result? Bumper sales that have exceeded our expectations, underscoring how the challenges of recent years have inspired gratitude and the joy of giving,” he said.

Khalid Mohamed, head of Business for American Swiss and Sterns said its jewellery brands had performed exceptionally well, with sales significantly higher than last year. 

“The market has shown a marked increase in demand for jewellery and watches, reflecting a surge in celebratory events such as weddings and other special occasions.”

Mohamed said American Swiss and Sterns had outperformed general industry growth, with November proving particularly robust. 

“We anticipate this positive trend to continue from December through April, buoyed by the peak wedding season and Valentine’s Day,” he said. 

“Diamonds, watches and gold continue to show exponential growth in demand. Among the favourites are diamond rings, including both earth-mined and lab-grown options, gold necklaces and earrings, as well as Tempo watches featuring metal straps. These items have captured the hearts of customers looking for both elegance and enduring value,” Mohamed said.

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