Jewelry has an enduring allure that transcends generations.
Whether it’s a child’s first pair of earrings, a college grad’s statement necklace, or a grandparent’s cherished heirloom, jewelry plays a role at nearly every stage of life.
And yet, no two age groups shop the same. As people grow, their tastes, needs, and budgets evolve - and so does their approach to jewelry.
In this guide, we’ll break down how different age groups approach jewelry purchases, what styles resonate most, and what retailers need to know to stay ahead of generational trends.
Whether you're shopping or selling, these insights will help you choose and curate with confidence.
In this article...
Children and Teenagers (Ages 5–17)
Safety and durability
When it comes to kids, safety comes first. Jewelry for children should be hypoallergenic and nickel-free to prevent allergic reactions.
Materials like sterling silver that are rhodium plated - which is also hypoallergenic - surgical-grade stainless steel, or silicone are great options.
Durability is key.
Bracelets and necklaces should withstand tugging, dropping, and everyday play.
For teenagers, durability still matters, but they also want to experiment with style.
Snap bracelets, resin rings, and simple studs dominate the scene.
Popular jewelry styles for Children and Teenagers
Personalization is everything at this age. Think birthstone necklaces, nameplate bracelets, or charm-filled accessories.
Trendy, affordable jewelry is a must for teens, who often follow fast-moving fashion trends.
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram drive demand for aesthetic-led pieces, like Y2K chokers or enamel rings.
And with celebrities and influencers as role models, it's all about mixing fun with self-expression.
Young Adults (Ages 18–24)
Exploration and personal expression
This is the age of identity exploration.
Young adults use fashion - especially jewelry - to express themselves. It’s less about status, more about individuality.
You might see a student layering minimalist chains one day and sporting bold hoops the next.
Jewelry becomes a tool for storytelling and aesthetic experimentation.
Popular jewelry styles for Young Adults
Stackable rings, mixed metals, celestial pendants, and asymmetrical earrings are all popular.
Layering is huge: necklaces, rings, even anklets.
There’s also a big focus on ethics. This generation cares about where their jewelry comes from.
Sustainable and ethically sourced materials - such as recycled gold or lab-grown diamonds - are in demand.
According to Salesfloor, Gen Z is especially drawn to brands with a clear ethical stance.
They want beauty with a conscience.
Adults (Ages 25–44)
Milestone commemorations
This age group tends to associate jewelry with major life milestones.
Think engagements, weddings, anniversaries, and the birth of a child.
Jewelry becomes more than adornment; it becomes symbolic.
It marks personal growth, relationships, and emotional moments.
Popular jewelry styles for Adults
Timelessness becomes important.
Classic designs like solitaire diamond engagement rings, gold wedding bands, diamond stud earrings, and tennis bracelets dominate.
But that doesn’t mean the pieces are boring.
People in this age range love customization. Personalized touches - engravings, birthstones, mixed textures - make a classic piece uniquely theirs.
Investment pieces also start to enter the picture. With growing financial independence, people begin to buy with longevity in mind.
Middle-aged adults (Ages 45–64)
Sophistication and quality
By midlife, many consumers have developed a refined sense of personal style.
They know what they like, and they’re willing to invest in it.
Jewelry purchases become less about following trends and more about celebrating accomplishments and indulging in well-earned luxuries.
Quality becomes a priority.
They look for craftsmanship, brand reputation, and timeless appeal.
Popular jewelry styles for Middle-aged Adults
Statement necklaces, luxury watches, and unique designer pieces often make the list.
This group loves a modern twist on classic forms - vintage-inspired pieces with contemporary flair.
There’s also a renewed interest in heirlooms and antique finds.
Brooches, charm bracelets, and old-world craftsmanship appeal to both nostalgia and uniqueness.
Jewelry becomes a conversation piece.
Seniors (Ages 65 and above)
Comfort and sentimentality
For seniors, jewelry often carries deep emotional weight.
They gravitate toward pieces that are easy to wear, easy to maintain, and rich in sentiment.
Gifts from loved ones, inherited items, and anniversary mementos become treasured staples.
Comfort is also key.
Clip-on earrings, lightweight chains, and soft clasps are ideal.
Popular jewelry styles for Seniors
Pearl necklaces, gold bangles, lockets, and classic wedding sets remain popular.
Seniors tend to value pieces that evoke memories and celebrate family connections.
Customized jewelry, like engraved charms with grandchildren’s initials or rings with multi-generational birthstones, are particularly meaningful.
This is jewelry that tells a story.
And in many cases, it's also being considered as a legacy to pass down.
Factors influencing jewelry preferences
Cultural and regional influences
Culture plays a big role in shaping jewelry preferences.
For example, in India, jewelry is deeply connected to rituals, status, and heritage.
In the US, minimalism and modernity dominate. In China, a new generation of consumers is redefining tradition.
According to Vogue Business, Gen Z is breathing new life into the jade market by embracing modern jade jewelry and purchasing through livestream eCommerce platforms.
In Latin America, gold remains king and in Africa, beadwork and locally crafted jewelry have both cultural and economic importance.
Understanding these nuances can help retailers cater to diverse audiences with sensitivity and relevance.
Economic considerations
Different age groups have different spending capacities. Children and teens rely on parents for spending money, so affordability matters.
Young adults often prioritize cost-effective fashion or alternative luxury like lab-grown diamonds.
Adults begin to buy investment pieces and gifts.
Middle-aged buyers may splurge on high-end luxury.
Seniors often look for value in sentiment over price.
Lab-grown diamonds are making waves, especially among Gen Z and Millennials.
They offer ethical appeal at a fraction of the cost. It’s a smart solution that aligns with both budget and values.
Fashion trends and social media influence
Social media plays a massive role in shaping jewelry tastes.
TikTok has driven viral trends like the “coquette” aesthetic, dainty layering, and maximalist rings.
Instagram influencers showcase curated stacks and elegant minimalist pieces. Pinterest fuels DIY jewelry hacks and vintage revival inspiration.
Gen Z and Millennials are highly responsive to visual platforms, but Gen X and Boomers aren’t far behind.
Jewelry is no longer just about fashion. It’s about content, storytelling, and self-branding.
Lasting influence…
Jewelry preferences evolve with age. From playful charms to legacy lockets, each generation brings its own meaning, style, and values to the table.
Whether it’s Gen Z hunting for lab-grown diamonds or seniors cherishing pearl strands, every buyer has a story.
Retailers who understand these differences can meet their customers where they are - and shoppers who recognize their stage-of-life tastes can find pieces that truly resonate.
At Ben Garelick, you’ll find something for everyone - from trendy Gen Z treasures to timeless heirlooms.
Ready to find jewelry that fits your age, lifestyle, and story?
Explore timeless pieces and future favorites at Ben Garelick.
