Coloured gemstone manufacturers report strategic purchasing this year, with the market seeking curated and specific selections.

Kobi Sevdermish, CEO of Advanced Quality ACC Ltd, observed a shift since last year towards cautious, curated buying, with less bulk purchasing and greater demand for specific, high-quality selections.

“The biggest challenge is the move toward just-in-time inventory, meaning buyers prefer smaller, more targeted orders,” noted Sevdermish.

This shift however presents key growth opportunities such as curated gemstone sets, pairs, and layouts to match the demand for precise purchasing as well as digital-friendly packaging and marketing to help retailers showcase stones effectively online. 

According to Sevdermish, earthy tones such as natural zircon and champagne garnet are moving well, while spinel and tanzanite continue to attract interest. 

Ready-to-use options such as calibrated and matched sets are in demand too as buyers seek efficient purchasing solutions.

Aquamarine, tourmaline, tanzanite and kunzite are the most sought-after gemstones at Gustav Caesar GmbH.

CEO Paul-Otto Caesar said, “Jewellers are on the lookout for coloured gems that would make their jewellery pieces stand out. Distinctive cuts and one-of-a-kind layouts enable them to achieve this.”

The shortage of suitable rough in the market has led the company to be more creative with its sourcing and offerings, he added. 

Gustav Caesar is revisiting old stock, buying back stones and refreshing their cuts, and purchasing pre-loved jewellery for their gemstones.

Drawing on its gem carving expertise, the company came up with fluted morganite beads for necklaces. It also turned old chrysoprase stock into necklace layouts. 

Paul-Otto said, “Given the high gold prices today, we keep our cuts shallow to create a bigger look and, at the same, require less gold when set into jewellery. This is quite beneficial to our clients.”