In our last post we explored four of “7 Trends to Watch in 2016,” as predicted by our friends at NationalJeweler.com. Here are three more 2016 jewelry trends from NJ…and another that takes its cue from the Chinese Lunar Calendar.
Black and White
Black and white jewelry will be especially strong in 2016, fueled in part by a surge in blackened metal styles. According to Amanda Gizzi at the trade group Jewelers of America, designer brands David Yurman, Lagos and Armenta all unveiled lines featuring blackened metals in their Fall 2015 collections, with more expected to follow for spring.
Gizzi told NJ that several factors are influencing this trend, including the continuation of punk fashions, the popularity of tribal-inspired pieces, and traditional Mexican silver jewelry.
Unique Stones
National Jeweler reports that younger consumers are seeking unique gemstones, both in colored stones and diamonds. Engaged millennial couples who are looking to make a statement are buying uniquely shaped stones and unusual cuts. Pear shapes, heart shapes, and marquise diamonds in East-West settings are all on the rise.
Fanciful Jewelry
While animals, wings, and feathers have long been go-to motifs in jewelry design, these fanciful images – especially wings – are today being recognized as symbols of empowerment, Gizzi told National Jeweler. Top jewelry designers such as Noor Fares and Mimi So have created entire collections around wings and feathers. Look for this important trend to continue in the year ahead.
The Year of the Monkey
When it comes to jewelry design, some animal symbols from the Chinese Zodiac are more inspirational than others. Last year, The Year of the Ram, proved challenging for jewelry designers, but 2016 – The Year of the Monkey – has been easier for them to embrace.
Jewelry stores and online resources are full of monkey motif earrings, bracelets, brooches and charms. So get out there and do a little monkey business for Valentine’s Day!
Source: Adapted from “7 Trends to Watch in 2016,” by Brecken Branstrator, NationalJeweler.com, January 4, 2016.
