New Tariffs and Jewelry

New Tariffs on Imported Goods: What They Mean for the Jewelry Industry

In recent weeks, the U.S. has introduced a series of new tariffs on imported goods—including raw materials and finished products frequently used in the jewelry industry. While these trade shifts are expected to disrupt global supply chains, their impact won’t be felt evenly across the board. Large retail chains that depend on mass imports from overseas may face the greatest challenges, while independent jewelers with local production could see opportunity.

How Tariffs Are Affecting Big Jewelry Retailers

Big-box and chain jewelry stores typically rely on large-scale overseas manufacturing to keep up with demand and maintain competitive pricing. With the new import tariffs in place, these businesses are seeing increased costs on everything from precious metals and gemstones to fully assembled jewelry items.

As a result, we may start seeing:

Price hikes across large retail inventories

Delays in restocking popular designs

A shift toward lower-cost materials to offset rising import expenses

This scenario could force larger companies to reconfigure their supply chains or make difficult decisions about quality versus cost—an equation that rarely benefits the customer.

Why Small Retailers Are Better Positioned

For small businesses and artisan jewelers, this is a very different story. Many independent jewelry stores design and produce their pieces in-house or partner with local craftspeople, reducing dependence on overseas imports. This means they’re better insulated from tariff-driven price spikes and shipping delays.

By sourcing materials domestically and maintaining hands-on control of the design process, these jewelers can offer:

Consistent pricing

Superior quality

Faster turnaround times for custom orders

A deeper connection between maker and buyer

A Shift in Consumer Mindset

In a post-tariff world, customers may begin to look beyond big names and rediscover the value of locally made jewelry. Shoppers who once prioritized convenience may now find that handcrafted pieces, created with care and integrity, are not only more meaningful but more practical.

At a time when mass-market retailers are tightening their belts, small jewelers have a chance to stand out—highlighting their craftsmanship, ethical sourcing, and personal service.

What This Means for You

At our store, we’ve always believed in the power of authentic craftsmanship. We design and create the majority of our pieces in-house, allowing us to maintain exceptional quality, offer custom designs, and keep prices fair—regardless of changes in global trade policies.

With possible price increases of up to 36% from jewelry manufacturers coming out of China and India, your jewelry may now be worth significantly more than when it was originally purchased. This also means the replacement value of your insured pieces could be affected. If you need to file an insurance claim, it’s important to ensure your jewelry is properly appraised and your policy reflects current market conditions.

Whether you're shopping for a meaningful gift, an engagement ring, or a custom piece with a personal story, we're here to create something beautiful, made just for you—and help you protect its growing value.