Jewelry Stores Industry Overview

Excerpt from Jewelry Stores Report

Companies in this industry sell jewelry, silverware, watches, and clocks. Major companies include Zale, Tiffany, and Sterling Jewelers (a unit of London-based Signet Jewelers).

Competitive Landscape

Jewelry sales depend largely on consumer income. Profitability depends on merchandising and effective marketing. Small jewelers can effectively compete with large chains because price isn't the main factor determining sales. The industry is fragmented: the 50 largest companies generate about 40 percent of revenue.

Products, Operations & Technology

Jewelry is often classified as bridal merchandise (engagement, bridal, and anniversary rings); fashion jewelry (rings, bracelets, earrings, pins, gold chains); and watches, silver flatware, and other giftware. Diamond jewelry and loose diamonds account for the largest share of total jewelry store sales (45 percent); watches for 13 percent, gold jewelry for 10 percent; and colored gemstone jewelry (rubies, sapphires, emeralds, etc.) 8 percent.