Mintel estimates the market for precious metal jewellery is worth £2,620 million in 2008, up by 11% on 2003, with stronger growth in the quality sector.

Will this growth falter? We think not, or at least not significantly, and that is largely because consumers themselves have been learning a greater discernment and discrimination – they will be buying less but better – and the jewellery trade itself has increasingly invested in design and, especially in 2008, promotion.

Mintel estimates the market for precious metal jewellery is worth £2,620 million in 2008, up by 11% on 2003, with stronger growth in the quality sector.

Will this growth falter? We think not, or at least not significantly, and that is largely because consumers themselves have been learning a greater discernment and discrimination – they will be buying less but better – and the jewellery trade itself has increasingly invested in design and, especially in 2008, promotion.

Main themes of the report:

Jewellery design more responsive to fashion trends and bringing excitement.

Greater discernment and knowledge driving demand for higher quality.

Women the key buyers – increasingly for fine as well as fashion jewellery.

Men are becoming involved in the market as never before, especially in metals of all types and diamonds.

Brands are playing a larger role in the market.