Lab-grown diamonds, abbreviated LGD, are now widely recognized even by less informed consumers. So the younger clientele are aware of this product and are considering this option.
However, with the plummeting LGD prices and the associated exposure, many Gen Z buyers are turning to affordability. To a ring whose advantages are that their stone is natural. LGD offers great sparkle, so there is a strong market for this product. But natural stones mined from the earth still have great appeal.
We're seeing many Generation Z shoppers - especially those buying wedding rings for the first time, gravitating towards natural stones. They can get that with diamonds mined from the earth, but they hope to get smaller, lower quality stones to fit their budget.
The zircon finds a new fan base
Now, it seems, zircons are finding a love match with this demographic in particular. But connoisseurs of collections have had the zircon on their radar for centuries. Award-winning gemstone designer-cutter John Dyer reveals that his clients have been buying zircons for years. “The most popular thing about a zircon is its scatter and sparkle. That's the primary criterion. The color is secondary.”.
Early Admirers
Back in the Art Deco era, zircon fascinated older jewellery collectors with its explosive shades and exaggerated shine. In those days, soft brownish-pink zircons found favour with all who wore jewellery. Fast forward to today and consumers have developed a special desire for the rare and costly Padparadscha sapphire. With the soft peach-brown-pink shades of some zircons still available, collectors are turning to the pink zircons made popular by Deco era fans.
Where it is located
Known to other cultures for centuries. Evidence suggests that zircon was a decorative stone dating back to about 2,000 years ago. Today, however, commercial quantities of zircon gems are produced in accretionary deposits from Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam.
Palladium Jewelers creates a modern engagement ring with blue zircon.
Dyer sheds light on an unusual blue stone he recently cut (photo). “This blue zircon is somewhat unusual, as it comes from Malawi rather than Cambodia. Malawi offers significant potential for blue zircon, as it appears to be the most stable colour material on the market.” He adds: “However, it is not producing large quantities of it so far.”.
Where did that glow come from?;
The high dispersion of zircon gives it a tremendous ability to disperse light into the hues of the rainbow. Zircon owes this extra brilliance to an intense birefringence. So the eye can see what appears to be made up of twice as many facets and much more fire in the stone, too.
There is a matter
If there is any warning with this jewelry, it would be that zircon ring owners should be a little more careful. Unlike diamond ring holders for example. Nothing beats diamonds in the category of hardness. Only one diamond can carve another diamond. With a grade 10 on the Mohs scale, it is the hardest natural material on earth. On the other hand, zircons have a Mohs hardness ranging from 6.5 to 7.5,. which is on par with other colored gemstones used for jewelry.
Thus, the use of zircon in rings requires the kind of care one would give to other fine gemstones such as emeralds, for example.
But the natural aspect of zircon keeps it on the relevant list for many new consumers or anyone looking for a genuine stone mined from the earth that is attractive, sparkling and ideal for personalisation with its wide range of colours.
Royal precedent
Royal watchers have paved the way for modern consumers who want a more individual look for their engagement ring choices. People of royalty dating back several generations are admired for their choice of stone. In addition to diamonds for their engagement rings. Princess Diana who chose an oval sapphire, followed by the Duchess of York's stunning red ruby engagement ring. Her daughter Sarah followed suit, wearing a gorgeous Padparadscha sapphire ring when she got engaged.
Choose your colour
The rainbow colour range of zircon gives many options. Ones that suit almost every preference a bride may have. She will say “I do” in a range of gorgeous shades of zircon. What buyers also appreciate is the transparency of the stone and its availability in larger sizes than their diamond budget may allow.
In the shopping centre
Mainstream jewellers based in shopping malls have embraced this trendy pattern. Today they are featuring blue zircon and diamond engagement rings in their latest collections.
The Indie Advantage
But independent retailers have a head start against this trend. As they are able to create customized rings for customers and a much more personalized experience. With the stylish semi-bases already in place, you can suggest a colourful bespoke ring option for the bride. Who doesn't want something that no one else has?;
Pamper the customer
Your client may just need some guidance if they are not familiar with this stone and its properties. The big selling point will be the stunningly beautiful colors available, as well as its attractive price. A bride will make a great impression with her unique ring. And you can gain a loyal customer who appreciates the jeweler who took the time to suggest something genuine, beautiful and right on budget while looking like a million bucks.
Source: southernjewelrynews.com
