The designer jewelry industry in the US is vibrant and dynamic, offering luxury adornments ranging from classic diamond pieces to contemporary fashion accessories. Companies in this sector include established luxury brands, innovative startups, and online retailers, catering to diverse consumer tastes and trends. There’s a growing emphasis on sustainable practices and personalization, reflecting changing consumer demands. Popular among millennials and Gen Z shoppers, fine jewelry and curated collections are in high demand. With the rise of e-commerce, the market continues to expand, indicating promising growth ahead as technology and artistry intertwine in this glittering field.


The investors featured in this list represent a mix of venture capital firms and private equity companies, headquartered in strategic locations such as San Francisco and New York. Ranging in size from small teams to large entities, these investors were founded between 1977 and 2015 and significantly contributed to the industry with a variety of deal counts in 2024. Their involvement reflects a robust interest in designer jewelry startups and established brands alike, highlighting opportunities for growth and innovation in a changing market.


Top 13 Designer 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. Notably, 500 Global has made significant investments in the designer jewelry sector, including multiple rounds of funding for Mejuri, a prominent direct-to-consumer jewelry brand known for its fine jewelry pieces. Additionally, they invested in Coveti, a platform that connects consumers with luxury jewelry brands. Their diverse portfolio also includes investments in other sectors, but their active participation in the designer jewelry market highlights their interest in this area.


2. FJ Labs

  • Website: fjlabs.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 169
  • LinkedIn: fj-labs

FJ Labs is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2015, that specializes in investing in marketplace and network effect businesses. They provide capital and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs across various industries, including e-commerce and logistics. With over 1,000 companies in their portfolio, many of which have achieved unicorn status, FJ Labs has a strong track record in the startup ecosystem. Notably, they have invested in Farfetch, which raised $110 million in a Series F round in 2016, a platform that features designer jewelry among its luxury offerings. Additionally, they have invested in Rebag, a company that raised $25 million in Series C funding in 2019 and continues to attract investment, including an undisclosed amount in a venture round in 2024. Rebag's focus on luxury accessories, including jewelry, further solidifies FJ Labs' relevance in the designer jewelry space.


3. Y Combinator

  • Website: ycombinator.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 802
  • LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It provides funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies through a structured program that includes resources like the Startup School and co-founder matching services. Over the years, Y Combinator has successfully launched more than 4,000 startups, establishing itself as a key player in the technology startup ecosystem. Among its diverse portfolio, Y Combinator has invested in companies relevant to the designer jewelry sector, such as COUTURME, which raised $150,000 in a Pre-Seed round in 2019, and Shoptiques, which secured $2,000,000 in a Seed round in 2012. These investments highlight Y Combinator's engagement with the fashion and retail industries, indicating its potential relevance to designer jewelry.


4. 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 founded in 1989, specializing in investment management with a focus on consumer brands across various sectors. 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 has made significant investments in the designer jewelry industry, including the acquisition of John Hardy, a well-known jewelry brand, which was valued between $100 million and $140 million. This acquisition highlights L Catterton's commitment to the jewelry sector and its strategy to drive growth and innovation within its portfolio. Additionally, L Catterton's investment in Baccarat, a luxury crystal brand, further demonstrates its engagement with high-end consumer brands, reinforcing its relevance in the luxury market.


5. 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 prominent venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 1977. The firm specializes in investment management and advisory services for startups, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors. NEA partners with entrepreneurs to provide funding and strategic guidance, emphasizing long-term relationships with founders. Notably, NEA has made significant investments in the designer jewelry industry, including a $30 million CAD Series B funding round for Mejuri, a fine jewelry ecommerce company, which aims to expand its offline presence and enhance customer experience. Additionally, NEA has been involved with Moda Operandi, an online fashion retailer that raised multiple rounds of funding, including a substantial amount in 2021. These transactions highlight NEA's engagement in the designer jewelry market, showcasing their interest in supporting innovative companies within this space.


6. Founder Collective

  • Website: foundercollective.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 12
  • LinkedIn: founder-collective

Founder Collective is a venture capital firm based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in seed-stage investments, primarily in technology startups, and aims to provide aligned support to founders by leveraging their own entrepreneurial experiences. They focus on efficient entrepreneurship and fostering a community among their portfolio companies. Notably, Founder Collective has invested in companies relevant to the designer jewelry industry, such as BaubleBar, which raised $1.1 million in Series A funding in November 2010, and Rebag, which raised $4 million in a seed round in August 2015 and an additional $8 million in Series A funding in May 2016. These investments highlight their engagement with the jewelry sector, making them a relevant player in this space.


7. 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. The company is renowned for its strong leadership under Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, and it boasts a substantial portfolio of subsidiaries across various industries. Notably, Berkshire Hathaway has made significant investments in the designer jewelry sector, acquiring Ben Bridge Jewelers in May 2000, Helzberg Diamonds in March 1995, and the Richline Group in May 2007. These acquisitions highlight Berkshire Hathaway's commitment to the jewelry industry, showcasing its role as a key investor in this market.


8. 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 several well-known brands, including Kay Jewelers, Zales, and Jared, catering to customers seeking products for significant life events. In recent years, Signet has made strategic acquisitions to bolster its presence in the designer jewelry market. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Zale Corp for $1.4 billion in 2014, which expanded their brand portfolio, and the purchase of Blue Nile for $360 million in 2022, enhancing their online capabilities and customer base. Additionally, the acquisition of Diamonds Direct for $490 million in 2021 allowed Signet to strengthen its position in the bridal market. The company also acquired Rocksbox, a rental jewelry subscription platform, to attract younger consumers. These transactions reflect Signet's commitment to quality, customer service, and innovation in the jewelry industry.


9. Benchmark

  • Website: benchmark.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Woodside, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 18
  • LinkedIn: benchmark-vc

Benchmark is a venture capital firm founded in 1995, located in Woodside, California. The firm specializes in providing funding and strategic support to startups and small businesses, particularly in the technology sector. Notably, Benchmark has invested in 1stdibs, a leading online marketplace for luxury goods, including designer jewelry, where they participated in multiple funding rounds (Series A, B, and D) totaling over $178 million. Additionally, they have invested in Ashford.com, which is involved in the luxury watch and jewelry market. These transactions highlight Benchmark's engagement with companies that operate within the luxury and designer jewelry sectors, despite their broader focus on technology.


10. First Round Capital

  • Website: firstround.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2004
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 20
  • LinkedIn: first-round-capital

First Round Capital is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2004. They specialize in seed-stage funding for technology startups, providing financial support and strategic guidance to help early-stage companies grow and succeed. Their services include investment in startups, talent acquisition assistance, and a Pitch Assist program to help companies prepare for future funding rounds. Notably, First Round Capital has invested in CustomMade, an online peer-to-peer marketplace that raised a total of $22.1 million across multiple funding rounds, which could include custom jewelry offerings. Additionally, they have invested in Studs, a New York-based startup focused on ear piercing and jewelry, which raised $23 million in funding. These transactions highlight First Round Capital's involvement in the designer jewelry context, despite their broader focus on technology startups.


11. TriplePoint Capital


TriplePoint Capital is a venture finance company based in Menlo Park, California, founded in 2006. They specialize in providing debt and equity financing solutions to venture capital-backed companies, primarily focusing on high-growth industries such as technology and life sciences. However, their investment portfolio includes notable transactions in the designer jewelry sector, such as BaubleBar, which raised $10 million in a Series B round in 2014, and Rebag, which secured $800,000 in a seed round in 2014. Additionally, they participated in the debt financing of Farfetch, a luxury fashion e-commerce platform, which further highlights their engagement in the fashion and jewelry market. Their ability to support innovative companies at various stages of development makes them a valuable investor in the designer jewelry industry.


12. 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, the firm has built a diverse portfolio that includes private equity, real estate, and credit solutions for both institutional and individual investors. Among its notable transactions, Blackstone acquired Diamonds Direct in November 2015, a significant player in the independent jewelry retail market. This acquisition highlights Blackstone's strategic interest in the designer jewelry sector. Additionally, Blackstone has invested in high-profile fashion brands such as Versace, further demonstrating its engagement in the luxury and designer markets. Through these investments, Blackstone aims to build strong businesses and deliver lasting value across various industries, including designer jewelry.


13. 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 notable transactions, Tiger Global has invested in CaratLane, a Chennai-based online jewelry portal, providing $31 million in a Series D funding round in January 2015, and $6 million in earlier funding rounds in 2012 and 2011. These investments highlight Tiger Global's commitment to the designer jewelry sector, as CaratLane deals in gold, silver, and diamond jewelry, aiming to expand its national and international footprint in the online diamond jewelry space. This involvement in the jewelry industry, alongside their broader investment strategy, positions Tiger Global as a relevant player in the designer jewelry market.



Designer Jewelry Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
500 GlobalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-500201098
FJ LabsNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-502015169
Y CombinatorSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002005802
L CattertonUnited States (USA)201-500198923
New Enterprise Associates (NEA)Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200197757
Founder CollectiveCambridge, Massachusetts, United States (USA)1-10200912
Berkshire HathawayOmaha, Nebraska, United States (USA)10001+18394
Signet JewelersAkron, Ohio, United States (USA)10001+19100
BenchmarkWoodside, California, United States (USA)11-50199518
First Round CapitalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)11-50200420
TriplePoint CapitalMenlo Park, California, United States (USA)51-200200610
BlackstoneNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000198557
Tiger GlobalNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-200200125


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