Diamonds are always trendy, as these jewels have a certain timeless quality. Many years ago diamonds did not have worldwide appeal and were certainly not associated with engagement or marriage. However, today is today and thanks to some culturally significant songs and very successful advertising campaigns, diamonds are universally fashionable. That said, what are some of the most popular diamond trends?

Getting Back to Basics

One of the most notable trends today is a return to the basics of diamond jewelry. Raw diamonds are very “in” right now, as the raw diamond look earns the reputation of a “rock”, that is, one that is uncut, organic and not uniform. Why do people like the look of raw diamonds? Some believe that it creates the image of old-world jewelry, the type passed down by multiple generations. Not only are raw diamonds popular, but the fashion of mixing raw diamonds with cut diamonds is also a trendy move.

In addition to the basics of cut, the basics of metals are gaining some attention. New metals are becoming popular among diamond shoppers, such as alternative gold alloys, as well as alloys with new colors like rose, black and pink. People are buying new metals like palladium instead of just platinum. Another trend is that many designers are actually mixing gold metals with silver metals, as a cost-cutting measure in view of the economy.

There are also changes being reported in diamond colors. Alternative colors are becoming increasingly prevalent, even unusual colors like pink, canary yellow, blue and black. Young people enjoy black diamonds along with silver, white gold and titanium. Some diamond collectors are buying traditional diamond center pieces but adding brightly colored accent stones.

Alternative Cuts and Designs

Alternative cuts are becoming more common, preferred to traditional round-shaped diamonds. Other shapes like pear, oval, rose, marquise, cushion and emerald cuts are being worn by celebrities and other VIPs. As stated before, adding extra stones is becoming a common trend today, and multiple diamonds are showing up on traditional engagement rings or even necklaces or earrings. Some popular looks include solitaire diamonds being paired with accent diamonds in various settings such as eternity or channels.

There are also new trends to report in how to properly wear rings. For instance, stack rings are “in” and allow wearers to adorn themselves with multiple rings for a distinctly royal appearance. Stack rings let wearers group together several rings on their right hand fingers. Times have changed and wearing so many rings on one’s fingers is no longer considered overdone or gaudy; in fact one of the most common trends is to wear diamond-encrusted bands on top of your traditional wedding ring. Speaking of the right hand, a woman wearing a ring on their right hand (not the traditional left) is very trendy, as this is a sign of independence.

“Offhand” Diamonds

There are plenty of diamond jewels besides wedding or engagement rings. One of the most obvious trends happening is that of pendants and charms. Cuff bracelets with diamonds are a trendy alternative to bangles. These bracelets allow for more diamonds to be encrusted into the piece, and as we know, the more diamonds that can be stuffed into a nice case, the better.

More pendants and charms are featuring brighter colors, while fashionable earrings seem to be increasing in size. Many celebrities are wearing earrings in larger diameter and lengths, from larger carat diamonds to multiple stones to even drop earrings. Loud is definitely in, from brighter colors to bigger base to even earring designs that add motion to a person’s look.

This new attitude also applies to necklaces. Today’s fashionable necklaces emphasize dramatic statements. Understated elegance is yesterday’s news. This is why larger is better and why multi-colored jewelry (from stones, metals and chains) is selling best. Some collectors are really going all out for the dramatic diamond look and are actually incorporating jewels into their watches, cell phone cases, lipstick tubes and even their pet’s collars! Hollywood’s elite has been wearing diamonds for every occasion, from casual jeans Tuesdays to Formal Premiere Sunday. In essence, the trends of 2009 and beyond suggest that there’s no such thing as too much. Bold fashion statements are in.

The Economy and the Future of Diamonds

Every industry is feeling the effects of the worldwide economic slump, including the diamond industry. The effects are wide reaching and deeply involve the production and sales of diamonds. The average shopper is, of course, more concerned with how the economy affects the price of diamonds. The bad news is that quality diamonds are inflating in price. However, many shoppers have found that venturing outside mall jewelry stores and taking their wish list to pawn shops has been rewarding.

In addition, vintage rings and other diamond jewelry are coming into fashion, not only at estate sales and pawn shops, but even from modern jewelers. Many shoppers prefer the classic look of a vintage ring to the perfectly geometric pieces offered by newer designers.

The diamond industry is alive and well and the theme is there’s no such thing as too many diamonds!