India’s retail jewellery leasing has significantly shifted towards large-format stores, which made up 50% of leasing in 2025, a substantial increase from 14% in 2019, as per a report. This shift signifies a move from product-focused transactions to an experiential retail approach. Leading brands are now opting for expansive showrooms over smaller outlets, offering VIP lounges, virtual try-on zones, gallery spaces, and personalized consultation rooms.
The trend extends to new market entrants and regional players in tier-II and tier-III cities, who are also embracing 8,000+ sq. ft. spaces akin to established national flagship stores. Anshuman Magazine, Chairman and CEO of CBRE India, South-East Asia, Middle East, and Africa, noted that this shift reflects a fundamental change in consumer engagement and developer strategies. Jewellery is becoming a key anchor in premium retail, driving revenue, enhancing brand appeal, and attracting affluent customers.
The report highlights that the share of jewellery in total organized retail leasing has surged from 2% in 2019 to 8% in 2025, positioning it among the top three demand generators in India’s retail sector, following fashion & apparel and F&B. Notably, absorption by jewellery brands has doubled from 0.4 million sq. ft in 2024 to 0.8 million sq. ft in 2025, with cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Delhi-NCR leading this demand surge.
Moreover, the report underscores the rise of dedicated jewellery zones within major malls across India. Developers are actively creating specialized jewellery precincts equipped with secure vaults and specialized lighting to meet the unique needs of jewellery retail. While Fine Jewellery remains dominant, leasing by Lab-Grown Diamond (LGD) brands has increased from 5% in 2024 to 8% in 2025, reflecting evolving consumer preferences.
