The jewelry market in the United States has a long and diverse history, deeply rooted in both indigenous traditions and European craftsmanship. Native American tribes, such as the Navajo and Zuni, were among the earliest creators of jewelry in North America, using locally sourced materials like turquoise, silver, and shell to craft intricate designs that held cultural and spiritual significance.
These early forms of jewelry served as personal adornment, but they also played roles in trade and ceremonial events. With the arrival of European settlers in the 17th and 18th centuries, the techniques and materials used in jewelry-making evolved, incorporating precious metals and gemstones that were previously unavailable in the region.
By the 19th century, the U.S. jewelry market began to industrialize, especially with the advent of mass production during the Industrial Revolution. Cities like Attleboro, Massachusetts, became hubs for jewelry manufacturing, earning the nickname “Jewelry City.” This period saw the rise of accessible, machine-made jewelry that could be produced at scale, making jewelry more affordable to the average consumer.
At the same time, the discovery of gold in California in 1848 during the Gold Rush played a pivotal role in expanding the U.S. jewelry industry, supplying raw materials that would fuel the creation of gold jewelry for decades to come. By the early 20th century, the U.S. had established itself as a major player in both the design and production of jewelry, with New York City emerging as the center of luxury jewelry brands and trade.
As the industry progressed into the modern era, the U.S. market became defined by its dual focus on luxury and accessibility. While fine jewelry remained a symbol of wealth and status, costume jewelry became popular in the mid-20th century, allowing consumers of all economic backgrounds to participate in fashion trends.
This era also saw the rise of some of the country’s most iconic jewelry houses, such as Tiffany & Co., which further solidified the U.S. as a global leader in the jewelry trade. Today, the U.S. jewelry market is valued at over $74 billion and is projected to grow steadily, reaching $77.2 billion in 2024, driven by increasing consumer demand, innovation, and sustainability trends.
The Central Hubs of the US Jewelry Industry
New York City: The Heart of the US Jewelry Market
New York City is the epicenter of the U.S. jewelry industry, largely due to Manhattan’s Diamond District, which handles an estimated 90% of the diamonds entering the country. Located on 47th Street, the Diamond District is home to thousands of jewelers and wholesalers, making it one of the most concentrated hubs of diamond and jewelry trade in the world.
The district facilitates billions of dollars in transactions annually and serves as a key distribution point for diamonds, gold, and other precious metals that move throughout the U.S. and international markets. New York’s reputation as a global luxury market has also attracted major brands such as Tiffany & Co. and Harry Winston, further solidifying its place as a leader in high-end jewelry.
Beyond its role as a trade hub, New York City drives innovation in jewelry design and manufacturing. The proximity to the fashion industry creates a dynamic relationship between jewelry trends and couture, with designers frequently collaborating with jewelers for runway shows and exclusive collections.
The city is also home to cutting-edge jewelry technology, including advanced gemstone cutting and eco-friendly practices like recycled metals and ethically sourced materials. This fusion of tradition and modernity ensures that New York not only remains a dominant force in the U.S. jewelry market but also sets trends that influence the global industry.
Arizona: The Gem of the Southwest
Arizona holds a unique position in the U.S. jewelry market due to its rich natural resources, particularly in gemstone mining. The state is one of the largest producers of turquoise, with mines like the Sleeping Beauty and Kingman mines providing some of the highest quality turquoise globally.
Arizona is also home to significant copper and gold deposits, contributing to both the state’s economy and its role in jewelry crafting. The state’s abundance of natural resources, combined with its long history of mining, makes it a vital contributor to the U.S. jewelry supply chain. As a result, Phoenix has become a key location for those looking to sell jewelry, particularly gold and turquoise, due to the city’s thriving marketplace and consumer demand.
Arizona is also renowned for its Native American jewelry craftsmanship, particularly among the Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni tribes. These artisans are known for their intricate silverwork, stone inlay, and use of locally sourced turquoise, making their pieces highly sought after in both local and international markets.
The influence of Native American jewelry has shaped Arizona’s identity in the industry, blending traditional methods with modern design trends. The state’s growing gold-buying markets also attract significant consumer interest, further establishing Arizona as a critical hub in the U.S. jewelry landscape, with Phoenix emerging as a popular place for those looking to sell jewelry in Phoenix and capitalize on the state’s booming industry.
California: A Trendsetter in Design and Innovation
California plays a significant role in shaping the jewelry industry, particularly through its design and innovation hubs in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. The state is a leader in luxury jewelry, driven by the strong influence of Hollywood, where celebrity culture and red-carpet events often dictate global jewelry trends.
Los Angeles alone is home to numerous high-end designers and jewelers, and the state’s market for luxury goods has been estimated to exceed $30 billion annually, with jewelry being a significant contributor. California’s consumer base, particularly in tech-savvy regions, also demands cutting-edge designs, making it a hotbed for innovation, including the use of new materials and techniques like 3D printing and lab-grown diamonds.
Beyond fashion, California’s jewelry industry is also at the forefront of sustainability and ethical sourcing. The state has seen a growing number of jewelers adopting eco-friendly practices, such as using recycled metals and conflict-free gemstones. This trend aligns with broader consumer shifts toward sustainability, with most millennials preferring to buy from brands committed to ethical practices.
California’s mix of innovation, celebrity-driven demand, and commitment to sustainability solidifies its status as not only a trendsetter in jewelry design but also a key player in shaping the future of the industry.
Conclusion
What does the future hold for the U.S. jewelry market as it balances tradition with innovation? As seen through the major hubs of New York City, Arizona, and California, the industry continues to thrive by blending rich histories with modern technology, from sustainable practices to cutting-edge design techniques.
The rising demand for ethical sourcing, lab-grown diamonds, and personalized jewelry points to a future where transparency, sustainability, and customization will define success. The U.S. jewelry market remains a dynamic force, evolving to meet the needs of an increasingly conscious and tech-savvy consumer base while maintaining its timeless appeal.
