The precious stone jewelry industry in Europe thrives on luxury and craftsmanship. Known for its artisanal designs, this sector features esteemed brands offering exquisite diamond, sapphire, and ruby creations. Renowned artisans and larger corporate entities alike shape the market, making it both competitive and innovative. Sustainability and ethical sourcing are increasingly emphasized, catering to consumer demand for responsible luxury. As technology advances, online sales channels are booming, offering consumers personalized shopping experiences. The industry's future appears promising, with continued growth expected as affluent buyers seek unique, quality pieces that tell their own story.


This list highlights 15 prominent investors in the European precious stone jewelry sector including corporate giants, private equity firms, and venture capitalists. Based in locations like Paris, London, and Geneva, these investors range from some with over a decade of experience to newer entrants. In 2024, the investors made a total of 38 significant investments, signaling robust activity despite broader economic challenges. With companies like LVMH and Richemont among them, these investors contribute not only capital but also strategic expertise to this niche market.


Top 15 Precious Stone Jewelry Investors in Europe


1. Lvmh

  • Website: lvmh.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 11
  • LinkedIn: lvmh

LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE is a leading luxury goods manufacturer and retailer based in Paris, France. Founded in 1987, LVMH operates across various sectors, including fashion, leather goods, wines, spirits, perfumes, cosmetics, watches, and jewelry. The company is known for its exclusive brands that embody craftsmanship and heritage, catering to affluent consumers. Notably, LVMH has made significant investments in the precious stone jewelry sector, acquiring prestigious brands such as Tiffany & Co for $131.5 billion in 2019, Bulgari SpA for 3.7 billion euros in 2011, Chaumet Horlogerie SA in 2005, and a majority stake in Repossi in 2019. These strategic acquisitions highlight LVMH's commitment to expanding its luxury jewelry portfolio and enhancing its presence in the precious stone market.


2. Richemont

  • Website: richemont.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Bellevue, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1988
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: richemont

Compagnie Financière Richemont S.A. is a luxury goods company based in Bellevue, Geneva, Switzerland, founded in 1988. It specializes in the production and sale of high-end jewelry, watches, leather goods, and fashion accessories, catering to affluent consumers seeking exclusive products. Richemont has made significant strides in the precious stone jewelry sector through its acquisitions of prestigious brands. Notably, it acquired a 60% interest in Van Cleef & Arpels, a renowned luxury jewelry brand, in 1999, and more recently, it completed the acquisition of Buccellati, an Italian high jewelry house, in 2023. Additionally, Richemont's acquisition of Vhernier S.p.A. in 2024 further enhances its portfolio of luxury jewelry brands. These strategic investments underscore Richemont's dedication to the jewelry market, particularly in the realm of precious stones.


3. Swatch Group

  • Website: swatchgroup.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Biel/Bienne, Bern, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1983
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: swatch-group

The Swatch Group Ltd, founded in 1983 and headquartered in Biel/Bienne, Bern, Switzerland, is a leading watch and jewelry manufacturer with a global presence. The company operates a diverse range of brands and products, including luxury watches and jewelry. Notably, in 2013, Swatch Group made a significant move in the jewelry sector by acquiring Harry Winston, Inc. for $1 billion, a strategic acquisition that bolstered its position in the luxury jewelry market, particularly in precious stones. This acquisition allowed Swatch to enhance its brand portfolio and expand its reach in key markets. Additionally, Swatch Group has invested in other luxury goods retailers, such as acquiring a stake in the UAE's Rivoli Group, which supports its strategy to penetrate new markets. These transactions illustrate Swatch Group's commitment to the jewelry industry, particularly in the realm of precious stones, making it a notable player in this sector.


4. Kering

  • Website: kering.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1963
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: kering

Kering is a luxury goods company based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1963. It specializes in fashion, leather goods, jewelry, and beauty products, owning prestigious brands such as Gucci, Balenciaga, and Yves Saint Laurent. Kering has made notable investments in the jewelry sector, including the acquisition of a majority stake in the Italian jeweler Pomellato in April 2013 for approximately $360.8 million to $387 million. This acquisition highlights Kering's strategic focus on expanding its jewelry portfolio. Additionally, Kering acquired Qeelin, a luxury jewelry brand, in December 2012, further solidifying its presence in the precious stone jewelry market. Kering emphasizes innovation and sustainability in its product offerings, enhancing the luxury experience for its affluent customers.


5. Lion Resource Advisors Limited


Lion Resource Advisors Limited, also known as Lion Capital, is a private equity investment firm based in London, England, founded in 2004. The firm specializes in consumer brands and provides investment management services aimed at unlocking growth potential through strategic guidance and financial support. With a diverse portfolio of over 175 brands, Lion Capital operates primarily in Europe and North America. Notably, they have been involved in significant transactions within the jewelry sector, including the acquisition of Spence Diamonds, a Canadian engagement ring business, in partnership with IVEST Consumer Partners. This acquisition highlights their commitment to the precious stone jewelry market. Additionally, their investment in brands like Alex and Ani, which offers jewelry products, further emphasizes their engagement in the jewelry industry.


6. Hilco Capital


Hilco Capital is a private equity investment firm based in London, England, founded in 2000. The firm specializes in special situations investment, asset-based lending, and retail services, providing capital and operational support to businesses facing financial challenges. Hilco Capital has a diverse portfolio, with clients across various sectors, primarily in the UK, Western Europe, Canada, and Australia. Notably, they have made significant investments in the jewelry sector, including the acquisition of Chapelle Jewellery, which operates 24 discount watch and jewellery stores in the UK, and F.hinds, a well-known jewelry retailer. These transactions highlight Hilco Capital's engagement in the precious stone jewelry market, alongside their broader investment activities in retail and other sectors.


7. Bucherer AG

  • Website: bucherer.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1888
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: bucherer-ag

Bucherer AG, founded in 1888 and based in Lucerne, Switzerland, is a prominent luxury watch and jewelry retailer. The company caters to affluent consumers with a wide range of high-end timepieces and fine jewelry, providing both retail and personalized services through an extensive network of stores worldwide. In recent years, Bucherer has made strategic acquisitions to bolster its presence in the jewelry market, including the acquisition of Leeds & Son, an American jewelry retailer, which expanded their U.S. market presence. Additionally, they acquired Tourneau LLC, the largest watch retailer in the U.S., and Klarlund, a Danish retailer, further enhancing their jewelry offerings. These transactions reflect Bucherer's commitment to growing its footprint in the luxury jewelry sector, making it a relevant investor in the precious stone jewelry industry.


8. Felix Capital

  • Website: felixcap.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 11
  • LinkedIn: felix-capital

Felix Capital is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2015, specializing in investments in digital lifestyle brands and enabling technologies. The firm provides venture capital and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs, helping them build strong brands. Notably, Felix Capital has invested in Mejuri, a fine jewelry ecommerce company, participating in both its Series A and Series B funding rounds, which totaled $35 million CAD. This involvement highlights their interest in the jewelry sector, particularly in innovative ecommerce solutions. Additionally, they have invested in other lifestyle brands such as Goop, further demonstrating their focus on consumer-oriented businesses.


9. Crowdcube

  • Website: crowdcube.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: crowdcube-limited

Crowdcube is a London-based crowdfunding platform founded in 2010 that enables businesses to raise capital through equity investments. It connects startups and SMEs with potential investors, facilitating the funding process. Crowdcube promotes diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services to its clients. Notably, Crowdcube has been involved in transactions relevant to the precious stone jewelry industry, such as Ingle & Rhode, which raised $152,815 in equity crowdfunding in November 2019, and Perfino, which raised $95,313 in December 2020. These transactions highlight Crowdcube's engagement with businesses in the jewelry sector, showcasing its role in supporting ethical and innovative jewelry brands.


10. Anglo American

  • Website: angloamerican.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1917
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: anglo-american

Anglo American is a corporate investor based in London, England, founded in 1917. The company specializes in the extraction and production of essential metals and minerals, including copper, diamonds, and platinum group metals. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, Anglo American plays a crucial role in various industries by providing materials necessary for modern infrastructure and technology while emphasizing sustainable practices. Notably, Anglo American has a significant stake in the diamond industry through its acquisition of a 40% interest in DB Investments and De Beers, which may increase their stake to 75%. This strategic move underscores their commitment to the diamond market. Additionally, their recent investment of £5.5 million in the jewelry brand 7879 demonstrates their interest in expanding their footprint in the jewelry sector, focusing on scaling the business and enhancing product offerings. These transactions highlight Anglo American's active role in the precious stone jewelry industry.


11. London Co-Investment Fund

  • Website: lcif.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2014
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1

The London Co-Investment Fund is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2014. It specializes in supporting early-stage companies across various sectors, including financial services and consumer goods. Notably, the fund has made significant investments in the jewelry industry, including a £850,000 seed round for Fenton & Co., a company dedicated to making the luxury engagement ring market more transparent by offering bespoke rings sourced from local suppliers. Additionally, the fund invested £600,000 in Astrid & Miyu, a contemporary jewelry brand aiming to expand its online presence and open a flagship store in London. These transactions highlight the fund's commitment to fostering innovation and growth within the precious stone jewelry sector.


12. 3i Group plc

  • Website: 3i.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1945
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: 3i-group-plc

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity firm founded in 1945, specializing in private equity and infrastructure investments. The firm focuses on providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, helping them grow sustainably. With a diverse portfolio and a strong international presence, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i has been involved in transactions such as the investment in John Hardy, a company known for its luxury jewelry that incorporates precious stones, where they raised $30 million in a private equity round in 2007. This investment highlights their engagement in the luxury goods sector, which includes precious stone jewelry. Additionally, 3i acquired Agent Provocateur, a luxury lingerie retailer, further demonstrating their interest in high-end consumer brands. However, their overall investment strategy spans multiple industries, indicating a broader focus beyond just precious stone jewelry.


13. Alven

  • Website: alven.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 12
  • LinkedIn: alven-vc

Alven is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2000. Specializing in early-stage investments, Alven has over €2 billion in funds under management and has backed more than 160 startups over 22 years. The firm provides capital and strategic guidance to entrepreneurs, helping them grow their businesses. Notably, Alven invested €2.75 million in Gemmyo, a jewelry company that focuses on precious stones, during its Series C funding round in June 2013. This investment highlights Alven's engagement in the jewelry sector, particularly in the precious stone market, alongside their broader focus on technology and digital startups. Other transactions include investments in companies like Ankorstore and MobPartner, which, while not directly related to jewelry, showcase Alven's diverse investment portfolio.


14. Talis Capital

  • Website: taliscapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: talis-capital-limited

Talis Capital is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, primarily at the Seed and Series A levels across Europe and the US. Talis Capital is committed to supporting founders who create innovative solutions that address societal challenges while achieving financial returns. They integrate ESG considerations into their investment strategy, providing guidance to portfolio companies on sustainable practices. Notably, Talis Capital led a $1.2 million seed funding round for Kimaï, an ethical lab-grown diamonds and recycled gold jeweller, showcasing their interest in the precious stone jewelry sector. Additionally, they participated in a $20 million Series A funding round for Threads Styling, a luxury fashion and jewelry platform, further indicating their engagement in the jewelry market.


15. Farfetch

  • Website: farfetch.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2020
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: farfetch.com

Farfetch is a London-based e-commerce platform specializing in luxury fashion and beauty products. Founded in 2020, it connects consumers with a diverse range of high-end brands and boutiques, offering a wide selection of clothing, accessories, and homeware. Notably, Farfetch has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its portfolio, including the acquisition of Ambush, a Tokyo-based brand that began as a jewelry brand and has since expanded into gender-neutral ready-to-wear fashion. This acquisition, announced on January 13, 2020, highlights Farfetch's interest in the jewelry sector. Additionally, Farfetch acquired the London boutique Browns to enhance its technology and reach, and Wannaby Inc. (trading as Wanna), further solidifying its position in the luxury market. These transactions reflect Farfetch's commitment to curating a diverse luxury shopping experience, which includes elements of jewelry.



Precious Stone Jewelry Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
LvmhParis, Île-De-France, France10001+198711
RichemontBellevue, Geneva, Switzerland10001+19881
Swatch GroupBiel/Bienne, Bern, Switzerland10001+19830
KeringParis, Île-De-France, France10001+19633
Lion Resource Advisors LimitedLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)1-1020040
Hilco CapitalLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-5020000
Bucherer AGLucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland1001-500018880
Felix CapitalLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-50201511
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103
Anglo AmericanLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+19175
London Co-Investment FundLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)1-1020141
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
AlvenParis, Île-De-France, France11-50200012
Talis CapitalLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-5020091
FarfetchLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)1001-500020200


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