by John Brana June 15, 2022
How many times have you heard the expression “handcrafted earrings”, “designer earrings”, “custom handcrafted earrings”, “custom designed earrings”, “one-of-a-kind earrings”, or “handmade earrings”? There are literally thousands of websites and cable TV shopping programs advertising earrings and jewelry with these catch phrases that are truly not one-of-a-kind, handmade, nor custom made. Most often, this type of jewelry is mass produced, usually from molds, and is replicated many times over, only to have the final gemstone glued or set by hand into a pre-made earring setting….allowing the seller to legally advertise it as “handcrafted” or “handmade.”
To be considered “Handcrafted Jewelry”, look for jewelry that is created one piece at a time and incorporates the designer’s vision and creativity. “Custom Handcrafted Jewelry”, incorporates your unique individuality and your choice of metal, gemstone(s), beads, and a desire to own a unique one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry.
This doesn’t necessarily mean that handmade jewelry is more expensive than production. When you purchase your jewelry from an artisan, you are technically buying straight from the manufacturer, also known as the designer, and thus reducing the retail margin that physical stores have to charge to cover overhead. You might be paying more for handcrafted earrings, but you are getting more value for your money in that you are buying more “material” instead of price inflation to cover your local fashion retailer’s rent, advertising, sales staff, and their profit margin. In the end, the benefits are numerous. When you purchase directly from an artist, you are paying for the jewelry and a very small percentage of their overhead costs. Most artisans don’t have nearly as much overhead as your local fashion or jewelry retailer.
In addition, when you buy directly from the artist, you are going to receive the personal attention you deserve as a customer. Our reputation, brand recognition, and building and maintaining your trust in us is paramount. A valued artisan stands behind every piece of handmade jewelry as being 100% genuinely “handcrafted jewelry” and made from materials stated on their product descriptions.
Author
John S Brana, based in San Francisco, is the founder of John S Brana Handmade Jewelry with over two decades of expertise in crafting distinctive handcrafted pieces. Transitioning from a finance and banking career in 2004, John manages everything from design to marketing. His modern, urban-inspired creations have graced fashion editorials, resonating with stylish, adventurous enthusiasts who value exquisite craftsmanship and luxury. Every piece narrates a distinct tale, mirroring the wearer's individuality.
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