Archive · 2 Sep 2026
Fine Jewellery Shifts From Stone Value Toward Design Distinction
Jewellery buyers used to focus mostly on the diamond itself.
They asked whether it was mined or lab-grown, how large it was and how it was graded.
Those details still matter, but they are now often treated as basic information.
Buyers also want to know how the whole piece looks when someone wears it.
They are noticing shapes, spaces, curves, textures and the way metal reflects light.
Smaller stones can look better than larger ones if the design is more thoughtful.
Younger buyers may see certification as a checklist rather than the main reason to choose a piece.
The article says jewellery brands will stand out by creating beautiful designs with a clear and original style.
Diamond certification, grading and origin remain important but are increasingly treated as basic requirements.
India’s polished lab-grown diamond exports fell in value while volumes increased in FY 2025-26.
Buyers are paying more attention to how jewellery looks, catches light and feels distinctive when worn.
Indian buyers are showing interest in negative space, intentional asymmetry, lighter pieces and textured surfaces.
The article argues that a designer’s distinct point of view is becoming more difficult to copy than a well-sourced stone.
- Who
- Fine jewellery designers, brands and buyers, particularly younger and Indian buyers.
- What
- The article argues that design is becoming more important than stone specifications in persuading customers to choose fine jewellery.
- When
- The shift is described as occurring currently; the article cites India’s FY 2025-26 export figures.
- Where
- The trend is discussed in the Indian jewellery market and the wider fine jewellery industry.
- Why
- Lab-grown diamonds and their core selling points are becoming more familiar, making design, beauty and distinctiveness more important differentiators.
- Main argument
- A correct or high-quality stone establishes value, but design increasingly gives jewellery its reason to be chosen.
- Lab-grown diamonds
- The article says their chemical composition and optical properties match mined diamonds, while they cost less.
- India exports
- Polished lab-grown diamond exports fell in value while volumes increased in FY 2025-26.
- Buyer preferences
- Indian buyers are noticing negative space, intentional asymmetry, faceting and surface texture.
- Minimalism
- Well-executed minimalist jewellery requires each line, curve, stone and clasp to be carefully considered.
- Younger buyers
- Certification is often described as a checkbox, with the main discussion shifting toward elegance and restraint.
- Author
- The writer identifies as a founder of DiAi Designs.