Whatcha Know Joe...

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Dear CBG Retailers,

 

We all know the jewelry industry has weathered storms before—from recessions to pandemics to the roller coaster of gold prices—and yet, here we are, still standing, still shining. Today, with gold surpassing $3,300 an ounce and new tariffs creating waves of uncertainty, I want to offer a perspective that turns this moment into a meaningful opportunity for growth.

 

Take a Breath... Then Take a Look

The first thing I’d tell any jeweler right now is: don’t panic.
Take a deep breath and look at your existing inventory—not with fear, but with a strategic eye. The cost to replace that inventory just went up—maybe 10%, maybe 30%, depending on what you’re holding. That means what you already own is more valuable today than it was yesterday.

 

This is your chance to reprice, re-market, and capitalize on that value.

 

Gold Buying is Back

Reignite your gold buying programs. Consumers are watching the gold price, too, and many are ready to sell. This is your moment to buy from the public—not just for scrap value, but as an entry point to spark new conversations, new customers, and new sales.

 

Diamonds: The Smart Street Buy

Let’s not ignore diamonds. Right now, diamond dealers are sitting on goods they purchased too high, which means the average jeweler can’t buy from them at a workable margin. But street diamonds? That’s a different story. Buying off the street gives you flexibility. You can re-cut, re-polish, restore—and you’re back in the mined diamond game at a fraction of the replacement cost. With lab-grown prices dropping and consumer interest in mined stones climbing again, this is your edge.

 

Reframe the Tariff Talk

Tariffs may be coming, but they don’t have to spell trouble. They highlight the value of what’s already in your showcases. They shine a light on the creative ways you can source, sell, and survive—just like we’ve always done. This is the time to reconnect with your team, your strategy, and your community.

 

You’ve Been Here Before

Let’s not forget: this industry has been built by survivors. The retailers who get creative right now—the ones who dig into their showcases, ramp up gold buying, and find new value in old stones—those are the ones who will come out ahead.

 

Let’s not Panic
Let’s Pivot
Let’s Profit!

 

We’re here with you.

We believe in you and we know the best is still ahead.

 

Warmly,

Joe