Things You Didn’t Know about Handmade Jewellery

The popularity of handmade jewellery has been on the rise for years. We all know that conscious shopping is better for people and the planet alike. But there’s a lot that you might not know about the nature of handcrafted jewellery. 

Let’s shine a light on this fascinating industry so you can wear your handmade necklaces, rings and earrings with pride. 

Shopping handmade champions independent businesses

Handmade rings, handmade bracelets, handmade necklaces; they all share one thing in common; they are produced by an independent business. That means that whenever you make a purchase for yourself or a loved one you are supporting a small company. You can see exactly where your money is going and who benefits from the sale.

Handmade jewellery is saving the planet

As the handmade jewellery industry does not use heavy-duty machinery or mass production methods, it has a far lower carbon footprint. Each piece of jewellery is sculpted, literally, by the hands of the artisan jewellery maker using handheld tools. This results in a significantly lower impact on the environment.

Your support preserves traditional values

Leading on from this, handmade jewellery relies upon traditional techniques which are at risk thanks to modern machinery. Soldering, hammering, carving and beading produced by hand results in a much more unique product. It would be a shame to see these forms of artistry cease to exist. 

Handmade jewellery is more sustainable

 

The fact that handcrafted jewellery is kinder to the environment is one thing. Additionally, an independent boutique supports the job economy by providing local jobs. Thirdly, handmade jewellery designers are committed to sourcing their materials through ethical supply chains. This may mean that higher costs are attached to the designer’s overheads but it does mean that those who work with the source materials are getting paid a fair wage.

Production is time-consuming

 

One thing about producing handmade jewellery is that it takes a while to create each unique item. Pouring their heart and soul into each piece, jewellery designers will spend multiple days or even weeks crafting a single set of handmade rings. As a result of this love and attention, your handmade pieces are far more durable than mass-produced equivalents.

It draws upon a number of skills

Design and craftsmanship, creativity and strategy all come into play when handmade jewellery is created. In some boutiques, the lead designer will both design and create a piece of jewellery. Whereas in others, there may be different creatives collaborating closely on each stage. Either way, the team behind handmade jewellery is more closely-knit than you will find anywhere else in the industry.

There is a story behind each unique piece

A jewellery designer who uses traditional methods to create their pieces will take inspiration from the most remarkable places. Perhaps from far-flung destinations, the natural world, remote communities and historic art and artefacts. The next time you browse handmade necklaces look closely and consider what tale the pieces might have behind them. You’ll also notice that each hand-carved item is unique - because no two pieces of handmade jewellery are ever the same!