The total sales of watches and fine jewelry, made with diamonds and other gems, in the U.S. reached a new record of $US 79.5 billion in 2013, an increase of 7.8% compared to 2012, based on data recently released by the U.S. Department of Commerce. ”
During the holiday season – a very important selling season – of November and December 2013, U.S. fine jewelry and watch sales rose by a good 6.9%. Even though the increase was below the increase seen in 2011 and 2012, it represented a solid growth, in keeping with expectations many had made.
However, compared to previous years the demand for jewelry decreased considerably in December 2013, despite heavy discounts and promotions by jewelers. In December, total fine jewelry and watch sales rose by 6.4%. Compared to the 8.4% gain seen in November, this was a much slower growth.