Forecasting trends is not a product of crystal ball or horoscope, but a thorough study of historical data and change in patterns. Paola explains how they propose a plan for the future and the points they consider while initiating a design or plan. Factors such as changes in societal beliefs, people moving towards the spiritual way of life and the idea of self-expression are embedded into designs and jewelry.

Paola De Luca explains design directions by giving exemplary examples of designs that are inspired by things, situations, and beliefs around us, such as reconstruction and deconstruction of geometrical designs, colourful jewelry, language based jewelry that communicates a message, divinity and spirituality, nature and bygone beauty, royalty, technology and more.

Paola talks about the methodology used by trend forecasters to help businesses grow. The way abstract information collected through data is transformed into practical parameters for businesses, such as pricing, manufacturing, etc. is explained. She also speaks about the importance of sharing one’s knowledge with others.

The compatibility of natural and synthetic diamonds, and the scope of synthetic diamonds in the market have been touched upon. Paola believes that both of them have their own unique features and people must embrace a mix of both, instead of arguing over which one’s better. However, she states that it is important to separate the two types of diamonds and educate the consumers on what they’re buying.

Today, there are many businesses that sell products and services but very few brands are able to sell an experience to their customers. Real brands are experience creators. Paola makes us understand that not every manufacturer can be creative enough to communicate and build an experiential brand, therefore, it is important to collaborate and build a team. Because the audience loves a brand that speaks to them!

It is noteworthy that millennials today are transforming and changing their buying habits. Unlike the olden days, where shoppers would go to a physical store and try on pieces and then make a purchase based on what looks good on them, today shopping majorly happens online. Therefore, Paola states that it is important to create an organised structure where shipping and logistics are taken care of, eventually taking care of the overall consumer experience.

The earth is constantly busy sending us messages about how we’re causing destruction. Therefore, we need to slow down and consider designing with awareness and responsibility. Paola believes that stopping/ banning the use of certain products isn’t the solution because that would mean generating a bunch of skilled but unemployed people. Which in turn, leads to poverty and financial crisis. An alternative she suggests is being able to recycle and reuse materials, as and when possible. While doing so, we need to ‘be a part of the message’.

Paola states that even in times of crisis, people’s desire to look good and feel good pertains. And therefore, people will buy gold. The difference will occur in terms of how precious their purchase might be, but they will still make a purchase.