In the ever-evolving world of jewelry, materials aren’t just about aesthetics — they reflect culture, lifestyle, and consumer values. As we step into the second half of 2025, the jewelry market has seen a clear shift in what buyers want and what retailers are offering.
Three metals continue to dominate conversations and catalogs alike: Gold, Silver, and Gold Vermeil. Each has its loyal following, but 2025 is proving to be a year where style, sustainability, and smart pricing drive demand more than tradition alone.
So, which metal is truly trending — and what does it mean for retailers and brands looking to stay relevant?
1. Gold: Still Iconic, But Under Pressure
Gold has long symbolized luxury and tradition. It’s the metal of weddings, heirlooms, and status — especially in countries like India, the UAE, and China. However, 2025 is revealing a nuanced shift.
2025 Market Insight:
- Gold prices have remained volatile due to inflation, geopolitical tensions, and rising demand in the investment sector.
- As of Q2 2025, 24K gold has touched INR 6,700/gm in India — a 9% increase from the previous year.
- Millennials and Gen Z are buying less solid gold and instead opting for lighter pieces, recycled gold, or alternatives.
What’s Trending:
- Dainty 18K and 14K gold rings and bracelets over heavy bridal sets.
- Hollow or machine-cut bangles to reduce weight and cost.
- Investment-focused pieces (coins, chains) among traditional buyers.
What Retailers Can Do:
Gold will always be relevant, especially in culturally rich markets. But to appeal to younger or Western buyers, consider offering minimalist, affordable gold designs, or transition toward gold vermeil collections that offer similar aesthetics at a fraction of the cost.
2. Silver: The New-Age Favorite
Silver is undergoing a renaissance. Previously seen as the “affordable cousin” to gold, it’s now emerging as a luxury material in its own right, especially in 2025’s global retail landscape.
Market Snapshot:
- Sales of sterling silver jewelry grew by 18% YoY globally, especially in North America and Europe (Statista, 2025).
- Gen Z consumers view silver as versatile, gender-neutral, and edgy.
- Silver is increasingly being used in bold, high-fashion designs, stackable pieces, and everyday wear.
What’s Driving the Silver Surge:
- Lower price point allows for frequent purchases.
- High polish and durability of 925 sterling silver.
- Works well with both minimalist and maximalist aesthetics.
- Silver has strong appeal across gender-neutral and youth-driven designs.
What Retailers Can Do:
If you’re targeting fashion-forward or younger audiences, stocking up on curated silver jewelry collections is a smart move. Offering custom bulk silver designs, from minimal chains to gemstone-set rings, gives your brand a competitive edge.
Nakassi supports scalable production of high-quality 925 sterling silver jewelry with customization, perfect for fast-moving collections.
3. Gold Vermeil: The Smart Luxury in 2025
Gold vermeil (pronounced ver-may) has emerged as the go-to metal for modern jewelry brands that want to combine the look of real gold with affordable luxury. It’s crafted using a thick layer of gold (minimum 2.5 microns) over sterling silver — making it more durable and luxurious than regular gold-plated jewelry.
Trending Now:
- Influencer-led brands and boutique labels are launching full vermeil collections.
- Rising demand for ethical gold alternatives is fueling its growth.
- Consumers are seeking premium quality without the price tag of solid gold.
Vermeil vs. Gold-Plated:
| Feature | Vermeil | Gold-Plated |
| Base Metal | 925 Sterling Silver | Brass or Copper |
| Gold Thickness | Minimum 2.5 microns | Usually less than 0.5 microns |
| Tarnish Resistance | Higher | Lower |
| Price | Moderate | Low |
| Perceived Value | High | Medium |
2025 Consumer Insight:
A Shopify trend report in May 2025 showed that searches for “vermeil rings” and “vermeil necklaces” increased by over 31% year-over-year, making it one of the fastest-growing subcategories in contemporary jewelry.
How Each Metal Performs in Retail (2025)
| Criteria | Gold (14K/18K) | Silver (925) | Vermeil (Gold over Silver) |
| Price Point | High | Moderate | Between silver and gold |
| Consumer Appeal | Traditional, premium | Youthful, versatile | Trendy, luxury-for-less |
| Popular Uses | Bridal, investment | Daily wear, fashion lines | Capsule drops, custom gifting |
| MOQ & Customization Friendly | Moderate | High | High |
| Current Retail Growth (YoY) | 6–8% | 18% | 23% |
What’s Actually Trending in 2025?
Here’s a snapshot of what’s dominating social feeds and online carts globally:
- Stackable vermeil rings in zodiac, script, and minimal styles
- Mixed-metal layering sets — combining gold vermeil and silver for contrast
- Chunky sterling silver chains worn gender-neutrally by Gen Z
- Vermeil pendants with birthstones, initials, and engraved motifs
- Lightweight gold earrings and studs for everyday use, especially in 14K
What Retailers & Brands Should Do Next
Offer Metal Options Across Collections
Give customers a choice by launching core designs in multiple metals — a ring in both silver and vermeil, for instance, or a bracelet in 14K gold and gold-plated variants.
Leverage Custom Manufacturing for Trend Drops
Collaborate with manufacturers like Nakassi, who support flexible, custom jewelry manufacturing — ideal for seasonal capsule collections or influencer partnerships.
Highlight Metal Properties in Your Marketing
Educate your customers. Many still don’t know what vermeil is. Use product pages and social media to explain why it’s a smart luxury.
Price for Perceived Value
Vermeil pieces, though affordable to make, can be positioned as high-end. Silver, with modern designs and storytelling, can easily command a premium too.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, jewelry shoppers are informed, intentional, and inspired by value — not just tradition. While gold holds strong in ceremonial and premium segments, silver and vermeil are where growth and innovation are thriving.
Whether you’re launching a new DTC brand or scaling your existing catalog, offering the right balance between gold, silver, and vermeil will help you attract different buyer segments — from budget-conscious shoppers to trend-hunting Gen Z buyers.
At Nakassi, we specialize in bringing these ideas to life through high-quality, customizable jewelry manufacturing — supporting brands across the globe with materials, designs, and strategies that align with current market trends.
FAQs
Q. Is gold vermeil better than gold-plated jewelry?
Yes. Gold vermeil uses a thicker layer of gold over sterling silver, making it more durable and luxurious compared to gold-plated jewelry, which is often plated over cheaper metals like brass.
Q. How can I educate customers about vermeil?
Use blog posts, product descriptions, and video explainers. Highlight benefits like longer-lasting shine, hypoallergenic base (silver), and premium finish.
Q. Can Nakassi help me launch multi-metal collections?
Absolutely. We offer custom jewelry manufacturing in 925 silver, gold vermeil, solid gold, and stainless steel, with support for low MOQs and trend-led design development.
Priyanka is a jewelry specialist with a passion for crafting stories as dazzling as the gems she adores. With years of experience in the industry, she combines deep expertise in design trends, gemology, and craftsmanship with a flair for creating engaging, informative content that resonates with jewelry enthusiasts and collectors alike.
