It is true to say that nearly all of us are feeling the pinch of the global credit crunch. You just have to stroll around one of the country’s shopping centres to notice that everywhere is becoming eerily quiet.
A shift in the economic climate inevitably brings with it a shift in consumer values. Over the last decade we have become (for want of a better expression) a throw away society. Quantity has gradually taken precedence over quality and we have all become obsessed with constant renewal albeit televisions or t-shirts. As a consequence of the credit crunch, people are being forced to realise that having more doesn’t necessarily result in fulfilment. In fact, people are going back to basics and are starting take on board the financial values of their grandparents era, long before we all became consumed by consumerism.
So if its back to basics, does that mean that will be shunning luxury products as part of our Spartan lifestyle?
On the contrary, since people are going to be thinking more about the long term future and less about the immediate future, I predict a return to luxury goods. During an economic crisis people are less likely to be frivolous and more sentimental. I use the word sentimental in the sense that when they make purchases, they are not only going to be driven by their own desires but that are going to be sensible and consider its usage for future generations.
This is particularly the case with jewellery. Whereas before a woman might have opted for
gemstone rings in every colour to match every outfit she will now invest in one special
diamond ring instead that goes with everything. Women on the high street have been squandering hundreds every season on costume jewellery to keep up with the ever changing trends. It is the type of jewellery that breaks or tarnishes after a few wears. Even if it doesn’t it will be worn for a handful of times then cast aside to make way for the next trend. Over the duration of a year such frivolous jewellery shopping adds up with nothing of value to show for it and especially nothing to pass down as an heirloom. Which is why in today’s current climate, women are considering their jewellery choices wisely. Instead they are opting for a classic pair of
diamond earrings that can be worn elegantly in any season with any outfit. They are so timeless that they will not only be enjoyed by you for years to come but also future generations.
Although the initial investment is considerably higher than the average piece of costume jewellery from the high street, in cost per wear terms, you are spending less on a real treasure that will ultimately become an heirloom as its value just cannot be compared. So although the credit crunch brings with it a change in consumer mentality perhaps it will finally encourage people to get into the habit of spending their money wisely on one or two luxury products instead of frittering it away with little to show for it.
Labels: Diamond Earrings, Diamond Rings, Gemstone Rings
This summer top fashion designers are all using colour-blocking which means the high street shops are full of bold and brightly coloured clothes.
