ModernJeweler.com |

Jewelry with personal significance is more important than ever these days. As a result, initial pendants are making a strong comeback. I know, this seems to happen every seven years or so. The difference this time? There is an amazing creativity in the styles available. Designers have created new initial designs with a distinctive signature style. Many of these pendants are so attractive, you’d be happy to wear them even if they aren’t your initial!

So now that you’re ready to get some great new alphabet styles, which letters should you stock? We asked insiders at large retailers to run the numbers on what initial pendants sell best. The verdict? J, M, S, C, and D, in that order. We also asked Rembrandt and their top-selling letter charms are A, M, K, S, and J. For expensive charms, wholesalers tell us that retailers usually buy the sample in their own or their wife’s initial.

The other initial innovation today is the way women are wearing these pendants, layering their own initial with initials of their husbands, kids, friends, and even words of personal significance. Initials are also hung on the same chain with gemstones and symbols, making them even more personal. Your pendant case should definitely show a layered look, combining initials with a symbol and a birthstone. Even your clients who already wear an initial will be inspired to add accessories. And showing them how to shop their jewelry boxes, getting new use out of pieces they already own, is the perfect message for these recessionary times.