Jewelry One of Top Black Friday Gifting Purchases

The jewelry sector saw a strong showing on Black Friday, making it one of the top categories in the US this holiday season, with a 2.8% rise year on year, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse.

Online jewelry sales increased 4.2% compared to the same period last year. The division came second only to apparel, which grew 6% year on year both in-store and online, Mastercard said Saturday. Overall retail sales were up 4.1% versus 2024 for the major shopping day, which took place November 28, while e-commerce climbed 10%.

The spike comes as consumers look to refresh wardrobes and scour stores for big deals and promotions.

“Consumers are showing incredible savviness this season,” said Michelle Meyer, chief economist at the Mastercard Economics Institute. “They’re navigating an uncertain environment by shopping early, leveraging promotions, and investing in wish-list items.”

Spending was particularly high in certain areas of the country, including New England, the Midwest and the Southeast, Mastercard added.

Image: A jewelry-store display. (Shutterstock)