Charles & Colvard, Ltd. Company Profile

Background

Overview

Charles & Colvard, Ltd. is a globally recognized fine jewelry company specializing in lab-created gemstones, notably moissanite and lab-grown diamonds. Founded in 1995, the company is headquartered in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. Charles & Colvard is renowned for pioneering the creation and distribution of moissanite, a rare gemstone formed from silicon carbide, offering consumers an ethical and sustainable alternative to traditional mined gemstones.

Mission and Vision

The company's mission is to provide accessible, beautiful, and conscientious fine jewelry by offering high-quality, ethically sourced gemstones. Their vision is to lead the jewelry industry in sustainability and innovation, ensuring that luxury can be both exquisite and responsible.

Primary Area of Focus

Charles & Colvard focuses on the design, manufacture, and distribution of fine jewelry featuring lab-created gemstones, including their signature Forever One™ moissanite and Caydia® lab-grown diamond brands. Their product range encompasses engagement rings, bridal jewelry, and fashion pieces, all crafted with a commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing.

Industry Significance

As the original creator of lab-grown moissanite, Charles & Colvard has played a pivotal role in popularizing alternative gemstones, challenging traditional perceptions of luxury and promoting environmentally responsible practices within the jewelry industry.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Sustainability and Ethics: Emphasizing the use of lab-created gemstones and recycled precious metals to minimize environmental impact.

Innovation: Continuously developing new designs and technologies to enhance product offerings and customer experience.

Market Expansion: Broadening distribution channels and increasing brand visibility through strategic partnerships and retail expansions.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Lab-Created Gemstones: Specializing in the creation and distribution of moissanite and lab-grown diamonds, offering consumers ethical and sustainable alternatives to mined gemstones.

Fine Jewelry Design: Crafting a diverse range of jewelry pieces, including engagement rings, bridal sets, and fashion accessories, all featuring lab-created gemstones.

Key Technologies Utilized

Advanced Gemstone Creation: Utilizing proprietary technology to produce high-quality lab-created gemstones with exceptional brilliance and durability.

E-Commerce Platforms: Leveraging online sales channels to reach a global customer base, complemented by a direct-to-consumer model that enhances customer engagement.

Primary Markets Targeted

Ethically Conscious Consumers: Individuals seeking luxury jewelry options that align with sustainable and ethical values.

Millennials and Gen Z: Younger demographics interested in alternative gemstones and modern jewelry designs.

Traditional Jewelry Markets: Expanding into established jewelry markets by offering innovative products that appeal to a broad audience.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Charles & Colvard is a publicly traded company listed on NASDAQ under the ticker symbol CTHR. The company has raised capital through public offerings and strategic partnerships to support its growth initiatives.

Total Funds Raised

Specific details regarding the total funds raised are not publicly disclosed.

Recent Funding Rounds

The company has engaged in various funding activities, including convertible notes and equity investments, to support its expansion and product development efforts.

Notable Investors

While specific investor details are not publicly disclosed, Charles & Colvard has attracted interest from various institutional investors and partners aligned with its mission and growth strategy.

Intended Utilization of Capital

Product Development: Investing in the creation of new jewelry designs and expanding the product portfolio.

Marketing and Branding: Enhancing brand visibility and consumer engagement through targeted marketing campaigns.

Retail Expansion: Establishing new retail locations and expanding partnerships with existing retailers.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Forever One™ Moissanite: A premium line of lab-created moissanite gemstones known for their exceptional brilliance and fire.

Caydia® Lab-Grown Diamonds: A curated assortment of premium lab-grown diamonds set in bridal and fine jewelry, offering consumers an ethical alternative to mined diamonds.

Stages of Development

Product Launch: Both Forever One™ moissanite and Caydia® lab-grown diamonds have been launched and are available in the market.

Ongoing Innovation: Continuous development of new designs and collections to meet evolving consumer preferences.

Target Conditions

The company focuses on providing ethical and sustainable alternatives to traditional mined gemstones, catering to consumers seeking luxury jewelry with a conscience.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

Retail Expansion: Plans to open additional retail locations and expand partnerships with existing retailers in the coming years.

Product Development: Ongoing introduction of new jewelry designs and collections to align with market trends and consumer demands.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Gemstone Creation Technology: Utilizing advanced methods to produce high-quality lab-created gemstones with exceptional brilliance and durability.

E-Commerce Infrastructure: Developing robust online platforms to facilitate direct-to-consumer sales and enhance customer engagement.

Significant Scientific Methods

Gemstone Synthesis: Employing proprietary processes to create lab-grown gemstones that closely mimic the properties of natural stones.

Sustainable Practices: Implementing environmentally responsible methods in gemstone creation and jewelry manufacturing.

Leadership Team

Key Executive Profiles

Don O'Connell: President and CEO. Don has extensive experience in the jewelry industry and has been instrumental in leading Charles & Colvard's strategic initiatives and growth.

Neal Ira Goldman: Chairman. Neal brings a wealth of experience in corporate governance and strategic planning, contributing to the company's direction and success.

Clint J. Pete: CFO. Clint oversees the company's financial operations, ensuring fiscal responsibility and supporting strategic financial decisions.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The global jewelry market is experiencing a shift towards sustainable and ethically sourced products, with lab-grown gemstones gaining popularity among consumers seeking alternatives to traditional mined stones. The market for lab-grown diamonds, in particular, is projected to constitute 12% of the diamond jewelry market by 2025, up from 8% in 2021.

Competitor Analysis

Lark & Berry: A London-based luxury jewelry brand specializing in cultured diamonds and gemstones, known for its innovative designs and commitment to sustainability.

Asprey: A British luxury goods company offering a range of products, including jewelry, with a focus on high-quality craftsmanship and exclusive designs.

Shane Company: The largest privately owned jeweler in the United States, offering a wide selection of diamonds, rubies, and sapphires, with a focus on customer service and value.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Macy's Partnership: In September 2020, Charles & Colvard expanded its retail presence by launching a selection of moissanite fine jewelry in 50 Macy's stores, including flagship locations in New York City, San Francisco, and Chicago.

VideoShops Collaboration: In November 2025, the company partnered with VideoShops, a social commerce network, to bring its lab-grown jewelry to a platform with over 50,000 influential sellers, enhancing its digital presence and customer engagement.

Operational Insights

Charles & Colvard's focus on lab-created gemstones positions it uniquely in the market, catering to consumers seeking ethical and sustainable luxury jewelry. The company's direct-to-consumer model, complemented by strategic retail partnerships, allows for a broad distribution network and increased brand visibility.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Product Diversification: Expanding the product line to include a wider range of jewelry pieces and designs to appeal to a broader audience.

International Expansion: Exploring opportunities in international markets to tap into the growing demand for sustainable and ethically sourced jewelry.