Holiday Trends, Lab-Grown Diamonds and Gold

November is when the jewelry world shifts into holiday mode. Retailers lock in their gift lineups, the big auction houses hold their fall sales, and shoppers start making lists. Here is what's making news in jewelry this month, and what it means if you're buying a gift or something for yourself.

• Forecasters expect a solid U.S. holiday season, with online sales growing faster than in-store sales.
• U.S. jewelry sales rose in the first half of 2026 because people spent more per purchase, even though they bought fewer pieces.
• Lab-grown diamond jewelry is still one of the fastest-growing categories.
• Bold yellow gold, colorful gemstones, pearls and personalized pieces lead the season's trends.

Holiday Shopping Is Expected to Grow, Mostly Online

Early forecasts point to a healthy season. Mastercard's economists project U.S. holiday retail sales up about 5.5% over last year, with online sales climbing around 11%. Deloitte's outlook is more cautious at 4% to 4.8% for November through January. In both forecasts, more of the shopping is moving online.

For jewelry buyers, that means the best sizes and styles can sell out before December. If you have a specific ring size or a particular chain length in mind, it pays to shop early and check the return window. Ours is printed on every product page.

People Are Buying Fewer Pieces, but Better Ones

Industry data for the first half of 2026 showed U.S. jewelry sales up by double digits year over year. Higher spending per purchase drove the growth, while the number of pieces sold actually dipped. People are choosing one well-made item over several trendy ones, and that "buy less, buy better" habit has held all year.

That's a good rule for gifts too. A solid 14k gold chain or a pair of real diamond studs will be worn far more than a handful of fashion pieces.

Lab-Grown Diamonds Keep Gaining Ground

Jewelry set with lab-grown diamonds posted double-digit revenue growth again this year. They're chemically the same as mined diamonds, so buyers get a bigger or better-cut stone for the same budget. Expect to see more lab-grown studs, tennis bracelets and engagement rings in holiday promotions. If you're weighing your options, our lab-grown diamond vs. moissanite guide breaks down the differences.

Gold Prices Have Cooled From Their Highs

Gold spent much of 2026 near record levels, which pushed up the price of solid gold jewelry. Prices have eased heading into November. Retail prices don't change overnight, but a calmer gold market is welcome news if you've been waiting to buy a chain, hoops or a gold band. If you're deciding between karats, our 10k vs. 14k vs. 18k guide can help you get the most for your money.

Big Stones Headline the Fall Auctions

The fall auction season is in full swing. A large sapphire ring of about 26 carats is a headline lot in Geneva, and a Cartier clock from the family's own collection is expected to bring millions at auction. Record auction lots rarely reach a jewelry box, but they do shape trends, and colored stones like sapphire keep showing up in everyday collections as a result.

Trade Shows and Grading Labs

New York's antiques and jewelry show runs November 19 to 22, a good sign of steady interest in vintage and estate pieces. Overseas, two well-known European gem labs opened grading offices in Dubai this fall. For shoppers, the takeaway is simple: independent grading is becoming easier to get, so always ask for a certificate on any significant diamond or gemstone.

The Trends You'll See This Holiday Season

• Bold yellow gold: chunky hoops, thick chains and dome rings are still everywhere.
• Colorful gemstones: sapphire, ruby, emerald and mixed-stone stacking rings add color to winter outfits.
• Pearls for every day: pearls now show up with jeans and sweaters, not only with formal wear.
• Personal pieces: initials, birthstones and charm necklaces make gifts feel personal.
• Layering and mixed metals: gold and silver worn together is now a standard look.

Smart Tips for Holiday Jewelry Shopping

• Shop early for sized items like rings and bracelets, and confirm the exchange policy.
• Ask for a grading report on diamonds and gemstones over half a carat.
• Stick to solid gold or sterling silver for gifts that will be worn every day.
• Keep the gift receipt handy. January is when most size swaps happen.

Shop the Season

Ready to start your list? Browse our rings for gemstone stacks and solitaires, our earrings for studs and gold hoops, our pendants for personal gifts, and our bracelets for everyday sparkle.

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