Sales of blue sapphire are leading the gem business out of the mire

All market signs point to a noticeable improvement in jewelry sales this season. As consumers move back into the jewelry market, colored stones continue to generate interest. Blue sapphire remains at the top of the wish list, but demand is also solid for topaz, aquamarine, and peridot. The true strength of ?2010 sales won’t be revealed for weeks, but retailers can be confident they will be stronger than in 2009.