The Insider

Market data, trade analysis, and guides from inside the jewelry industry.

Craft · Featured

Bracelet Clasp Types: A Complete Guide

Lobster, toggle, box, magnetic, fold-over, and more. How each bracelet clasp works, security ratings, and which one to pick for your piece.

Aug 5, 2026

Craft

Types of Earring Backs: A Complete Guide

Butterfly, screw-back, lever-back, flat-back, La Pousette, clip-on, and more. Comfort, security, and which piercing type each one works with.

Aug 5, 2026

Market

How Much Does a 2 Carat Diamond Cost in 2026?

A 2 carat natural diamond averages around $17,000 at retail. Lab-grown runs $500 to $1,500. Here's what to actually pay in 2026.

Jul 16, 2026

Production

Starting a Jewelry Business in 2026: Real Costs

What it actually costs to start a jewelry business in 2026. Equipment, inventory, marketing, and legal at $2K, $15K, and $50K+ budget tiers.

May 28, 2026

Market

Lab-Grown vs Natural Diamonds: The Real Numbers

The real production costs, wholesale price trends, and resale reality of lab-grown diamonds vs natural. Data the industry doesn't share with consumers.

May 23, 2026

Production

Jewelry Pricing Formula: Material, Labor, Markup

The actual formula jewelers use to price their work. Material costs, labor rates, overhead, and why most beginners underprice by 40%.

May 21, 2026

Production

Lost-Wax Casting: From Wax to Finished Gold

The full lost-wax casting process from wax model to finished gold. Equipment costs, burnout schedules, common defects, and production tips.

May 19, 2026

Business

Markup vs Margin for Jewelers: Key Differences

Most jewelers confuse markup and margin. The difference can mean thousands in lost profit per year. Here's the formula and when each one matters.

May 12, 2026

Market

Lab-Grown Diamonds: The Economics Nobody Talks About

Lab-grown diamond production costs dropped 90% since 2021. CVD stones cost under $200 to grow. What this means for retail margins and market positioning.

Apr 28, 2026

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