Why 2025 Is a Breakout Year for Players in the Pre-owned Fine Jewelry Market

The fine jewelry market is experiencing a period of dynamic change, and for those specializing in pre-owned, estate, and secondhand pieces, 2025 offers a rare window of opportunity. From sweeping policy changes to shifting consumer values and the largest inter-generational wealth transfer in history, the conditions are aligning in your favor.

In this article, we’ll explore how macroeconomic shifts are fueling demand for pre-owned jewelry, why recycled diamonds are gaining traction, and how you can take full advantage of this moment with the right strategy—and the right wholesale partner.

The Big Picture: What's Changing in 2025?

Three major forces are reshaping the jewelry landscape:

1. New Import Tariffs Are Raising the Cost of New Jewelry

The U.S. administration implemented significant tariffs in April 2025, including a baseline 10% on imports from most countries and higher “reciprocal” tariffs on key trading partners, notably a 26-27% tariff on goods from India, the world’s primary diamond polishing hub.

While a temporary 90-day pause on the highest reciprocal rates (excluding the baseline 10%) brought some breathing room, the policy introduces significant cost and uncertainty for newly imported goods.

2. Recycled Diamonds Are Going Mainstream

Consumers are increasingly choosing recycled diamonds—natural diamonds reclaimed from pre-owned jewelry—over newly mined stones. The reasons are clear: sustainability, better value for money, and a love for jewelry with a story.

Even major retailers are embracing recycled inventory. What once was niche is now headed for the mainstream.

3. The $84 Trillion Wealth Transfer Is Fueling Demand

Over the coming decades, trillions will move from Baby Boomers to Gen X and Millennials. These younger inheritors have very different priorities: they care deeply about provenance, ethical sourcing, personalization, and sustainability.

They’re not just inheriting jewelry—they’re re-imagining it. That means increasing demand for redesigns, restorations, and thoughtful customization using high-quality natural diamonds.

Why Pre-Owned Fine Jewelry Aligns with Modern Luxury

Consumers in 2025 want more than sparkle—they want meaning, value, and ethics. Pre-owned fine jewelry naturally delivers on all fronts:

Sustainability

The ultimate form of recycling in the jewelry world.

Story & Character

Every piece has a past, creating emotional and cultural depth.

Affordability

 Luxury craftsmanship and natural materials at more accessible prices.

Investment Value

Natural diamonds, especially pre-owned, are perceived as more stable long-term investments than lab-grown alternatives.

The Pre-owned Jewelry Market Is Growing :
Here's What That Means for You

Pre-owned luxury is no longer second-best—it’s flourishing. The resale market is projected to hit $5.5 billion by 2033, driven by growing interest in sustainable luxury and the increase in inherited fine jewelry.

Your existing inventory just became more valuable. Tariffs have inflated the replacement cost of new diamond jewelry, which means what you already own—the rings, necklaces, and loose stones sitting in your vault—has appreciated in market relevance and resale potential. 

Do not sit on this liquidity when it can present a powerful cash injection into your business.

Jewelry market is showing promise for white gold pre-owned fine jewelry
White gold fine jewelry for the pre-owned jewelry market

These Trends Create Opportunity for You:
Here is how!

As a Pawn Shop, Coin Shop or Gold Buyer

Tariffs Don’t Touch Your Inventory

Estate pieces, pawned items, and auction finds are already within the U.S. market. That means a wholesaler buying from you will incur no additional tariffs.

This implies instantly more competitive pricing opportunities for you, compared to wholesale purchases on newly imported goods.

You Have the Ability to Obtain the Inventory Consumers Want

Sustainability-minded buyers, value-driven shoppers, and those seeking distinctive pieces are flocking to pre-owned. You’re perfectly positioned to meet this demand. 

Working with a reputable wholesaler will mitigate the risk of purchasing new stock, as they will be able to give you valuable market insight.

This will allow you to ensure that you pay a fair price to your clients for in-demand items.

As a Jewelery Store

Services Are in High Demand

As inherited jewelry floods the market, clients are actively seeking:

– Appraisals for insurance, resale, or estate planning.

– Restoration to preserve sentimental pieces.

– Redesigns that fuse modern aesthetics with heirloom value.

This is your chance to not just sell, but also service, elevate, and build lasting relationships with clients who see value in preservation and personalization.

An Additional Sales Avenue through B2B Selling

Not all inherited jewelry will be redesigned. In some instances, the beneficiary of the inheritance aims to obtain liquidity.

Selling these pieces to a reputable wholesaler may open additional income streams to an independent jewelry store.

How The Right Wholesale Partner Can Support Your Growth

As a wholesale diamond partner focused on pre-owned and recycled inventory, we’re here to help you capitalize on these trends with precision and expertise.

Access to Market and Improved Liquidity

By selling to a wholesaler with an expansive network of buyers, you are able to open your business up to a whole new revenue stream.

This market is also accessible without any additional administration or diamond refinement, as the wholesaler will take care of all of that.

Risk Reduction

Holding recycled diamond inventory comes with market risk. Prices fluctuate, demand shifts, and resale isn’t always guaranteed.

By selling to us, you unlock immediate value — no waiting, no guesswork.

The wholesaler takes on the risk; you get liquidity.

For Jewelers:
Loose Recycled Diamonds—When You Need Them

From melee to larger stones, the correct wholesaler can supply carefully graded recycled diamonds to help you repair, redesign, or replace stones in vintage pieces with ease and accuracy.

Expert Valuation Services

A reputable wholesale partner will assist in accurately valuing the diamonds in your estate or auction pieces.

This will help you maximize profit and make informed buying decisions.

Market Intelligence

Through the relationship with your wholesaler, you can stay ahead of price trends, consumer preferences, and the natural vs. lab-grown conversation, providing regular insights and guidance.

The Spotlight Is on You

The jewelry industry is shifting—and it’s your time to shine. With tariffs reshaping the economics of new goods, and younger generations embracing sustainability, personalization, and heritage, pre-owned jewelry is in its golden age.

 

By doubling down on your unique advantages, offering high-touch services, and partnering smartly, you can not only adapt—you can lead.

Secure a True Growth Partner

At Rothschild Trading, we are not just a buyer or seller —we’re invested in your success.

Count on us for consistent inventory, expert support, and a shared vision for what the future of jewelry looks like.

Let’s seize this moment together and redefine luxury for the next generation.