The diamond jewelry industry in the United States is a vibrant sector that combines age-old craftsmanship with modern innovation. It is populated by various retailers, wholesalers, and emerging brands focused on fine jewelry featuring diamonds. From large chain stores to bespoke artisans, these companies cater to a wide array of consumer preferences, leveraging technology and e-commerce to enhance the shopping experience. With a renewed emphasis on ethical sourcing and online sales, the industry is continuously adapting. In addition, the popularity of lab-created diamonds is reshaping market dynamics, as more consumers seek transparency and sustainability.

The list features a mix of corporate giants, venture capital firms, and private equity investors, showcasing a blend of established and emerging players. Headquartered mainly in major cities like New York and California, these firms range in size from small teams to organizations with over 10,000 employees. Founded over several decades, their focus on the diamond jewelry space has resulted in impressive deal counts. In 2024 alone, these investors collectively engaged in numerous transactions, indicating a sustained interest in the lucrative sector of diamond jewelry.

Top 12 Diamond Jewelry Investors in the US

1. 500 Global

• Website: 500.co
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 98
• LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. Among their notable transactions, they have invested in Mejuri, a jewelry brand that emphasizes fine jewelry, including diamond pieces, which showcases their involvement in the jewelry sector. Additionally, they have made investments in other companies like italist, HeartThis, and Coveti, which, while not directly related to diamond jewelry, indicate a broader interest in the fashion and retail space. Overall, 500 Global operates globally, focusing on innovative startups that require support in navigating the challenges of growth and market entry.

2. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)

• Website: nea.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates

New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a venture capital firm founded in 1977, based in Menlo Park, California. NEA specializes in investment management and advisory services for startups, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors. The firm partners with entrepreneurs to provide funding and strategic guidance, helping them navigate the challenges of building successful businesses. NEA operates through a collaborative approach, emphasizing long-term relationships with founders. Notably, NEA has invested in Mejuri, a fine jewelry ecommerce company, participating in a $30 million CAD Series B funding round in April 2019. This investment highlights NEA's engagement in the jewelry sector. Additionally, NEA has been involved in funding rounds for Moda Operandi, an online fashion retailer that includes luxury jewelry among its offerings, although these transactions are less directly related to diamond jewelry. Overall, NEA's involvement in these transactions indicates a willingness to invest in the jewelry industry, making them a relevant player in this space.

3. Signet Jewelers

• Website: signetjewelers.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Akron, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1910
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: signet

Signet Jewelers Ltd. is a prominent jewelry retailer based in Akron, Ohio, specializing in diamond jewelry and luxury watches. Founded in 1910, the company operates well-known brands such as Kay Jewelers, Zales, and Jared, catering to customers seeking products for significant life events. In recent years, Signet has made several strategic acquisitions to strengthen its position in the diamond jewelry market. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Blue Nile for $360 million, which enhances its online capabilities and customer base; the purchase of Diamonds Direct for $490 million, aimed at bolstering its presence in the bridal market; and the acquisition of Zale Corp for $1.4 billion, which further expands its portfolio of jewelry brands. These moves reflect Signet's commitment to quality and customer service while also targeting higher-end bridal customers and younger demographics through innovative platforms like Rocksbox.

4. Berkshire Hathaway

• Website: berkshirehathaway.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1839
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn: berkshire-hathaway

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. is a holding company based in Omaha, Nebraska, founded in 1839. It operates primarily in the insurance and investment management sectors, providing a diverse range of financial services to individual consumers and businesses. Under the leadership of Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, the company has built a substantial portfolio of subsidiaries across various industries. Notably, Berkshire Hathaway has made significant investments in the diamond jewelry sector, acquiring Helzberg Diamonds in 1995 and Ben Bridge Jewelers in 2000. These acquisitions demonstrate the company's commitment to the jewelry market. Additionally, the acquisition of Richline Group in 2007 further emphasizes its involvement in the diamond jewelry industry, as Richline is known for its operations in the jewelry sector. These strategic investments highlight Berkshire Hathaway's role as a significant player in the diamond jewelry market.

5. Tiger Global

• Website: tigerglobal.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 25
• LinkedIn: tiger-global-management

Tiger Global Management, LLC is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in both public and private equity investments. Founded in 2001, the firm manages approximately $50 billion and focuses on innovative companies leveraging technology. Among its diverse portfolio, Tiger Global has made significant investments in the diamond jewelry sector, particularly through its funding of CaratLane, an online jewelry portal that specializes in gold, silver, and diamond jewelry. Notably, Tiger Global participated in multiple funding rounds for CaratLane, including a $31 million Series D round in 2015 and a $6 million Series A round in 2011, aimed at consolidating its position in the online diamond jewelry space. This involvement highlights Tiger Global's interest in the diamond jewelry market, alongside its broader investment strategy.

6. L Catterton

• Website: lcatterton.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 23
• LinkedIn: l-catterton

L Catterton is a private equity firm specializing in investment management, focusing on consumer brands across various sectors. Founded in 1989, the firm partners with middle market companies and high-growth enterprises, providing capital and strategic guidance to enhance brand equity and market presence. Notably, L Catterton acquired the jewelry brand John Hardy in 2014, a significant transaction that highlights their engagement in the jewelry market. This acquisition, valued between $100 million and $140 million, reflects their strategy to invest in brands with strong growth potential. Additionally, L Catterton has been involved in various other consumer-focused investments, demonstrating their commitment to driving growth and innovation within their portfolio companies.

7. Beringea

• Website: beringea.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Farmington Hills, Michigan, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn: beringea-limited

Beringea is a venture capital firm based in Farmington Hills, Michigan, founded in 1988. The firm specializes in providing investment and support to rapidly scaling entrepreneurial companies, primarily in the U.K. and U.S. markets. Beringea focuses on offering capital, strategic connections, and resources to help businesses grow across various sectors. Notably, they have made significant investments in the diamond jewelry context, including funding rounds for Monica Vinader, which raised approximately $3.8 million in 2013 and has received additional investments in previous years. Furthermore, Beringea led a $3.75 million Series A investment into Luxury Promise, a marketplace for luxury handbags and accessories, which may also include diamond jewelry items. These transactions highlight Beringea's active role in the luxury and jewelry sectors, reinforcing their relevance as an investor in the diamond jewelry industry.

8. Blackstone

• Website: blackstone.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn: blackstonegroup

Blackstone Inc. is a prominent investment management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative investments. Founded in 1985, Blackstone offers a diverse range of services, including private equity, real estate, and credit solutions to both institutional and individual investors. The firm is known for its strategic approach to building strong businesses and delivering lasting value through its extensive portfolio. Notably, Blackstone acquired Diamonds Direct, a leading independent jewelry retailer, in November 2015, marking a significant investment in the diamond jewelry sector. This acquisition reflects Blackstone's commitment to diversifying its portfolio and capitalizing on opportunities within the jewelry market. Additionally, Blackstone has been involved in various other transactions across different industries, but its direct investment in Diamonds Direct underscores its relevance in the diamond jewelry industry.

9. Bessemer Venture Partners

• Website: bvp.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1911
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 78
• LinkedIn: bessemer-venture-partners

Bessemer Venture Partners is a venture capital firm founded in 1911, based in San Francisco, California. The firm specializes in providing funding and investment management services to startups and growth-stage companies across various sectors, including technology and healthcare. Notably, Bessemer has been actively involved in the diamond jewelry industry through its investments in Blue Nile, where they participated in multiple funding rounds from 1999 to 2003, totaling over $70 million. This involvement highlights their commitment to supporting businesses in the diamond jewelry space. Additionally, Bessemer led a $47.6 million funding round for LiveAuctioneers, a platform that includes auctioning of fine jewelry, further showcasing their engagement in the broader jewelry market.

10. Kleiner Perkins

• Website: kleinerperkins.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 38
• LinkedIn: kleiner-perkins

Kleiner Perkins is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 1972. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage and growth companies, providing both capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs. With a focus on technology and life sciences, Kleiner Perkins has backed over 900 ventures, making it a key player in the venture capital landscape. Notably, they have invested in Blue Nile, a leading online retailer of diamonds and fine jewelry, participating in several funding rounds including Series B, C, and E, which collectively raised significant capital for the company. This involvement highlights their interest in the diamond jewelry sector, despite their broader investment focus.

11. Greycroft

• Website: greycroft.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 20
• LinkedIn: greycroft-partners

Greycroft is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2006, that specializes in technology investments across various sectors, including software, sustainability, and consumer brands. The firm provides capital and expertise to startups and emerging companies, helping them grow and scale their operations. Notably, Greycroft has invested in BaubleBar, a startup that offers affordable designer jewelry, participating in multiple funding rounds (Series A, B, and C) from 2012 to 2016. BaubleBar focuses on tackling pain points in jewelry shopping by providing high-quality products at accessible prices, which aligns with Greycroft's interest in innovative consumer brands. This involvement in the jewelry sector highlights Greycroft's potential relevance to the diamond jewelry industry.

12. Gaingels

• Website: gaingels.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Burlington, Vermont, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 60
• LinkedIn: gaingels

Gaingels is a venture capital firm founded in 2015, based in Burlington, Vermont, dedicated to investing in companies with diverse leadership. The firm provides capital and support to startups, particularly those led by underrepresented groups, to foster diversity and inclusion in the innovation economy. In 2022, Gaingels participated in a significant transaction with Diamond Standard Co., which raised $30 million in a Series A funding round aimed at expanding production capacity and accelerating distribution of diamond commodities. This involvement highlights Gaingels' interest in the diamond sector, alongside their broader investment strategy that includes companies like Awe Inspired and ShopShops, which focus on different markets.

Diamond Jewelry Insights: Key Investors in the US

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