If you’re thinking of hippie-style macaroon necklaces and beaded earrings when you hear the term handmade jewelry, chances are you haven’t spent time at craft shows and exhibits in recent years. Handmade jewelry has really come into its own with a variety of different metals, styles, gems and semi-precious stones, as well as non-traditional jewelry materials. Handmade jewelry is often a one-of-a-kind item, making it an ideal gift idea for someone on your Christmas or birthday list who is hard to shop for. Handcrafted jewelry is also in high demand for bridal parties and special events as the wearer is sure to draw attention and comment on the unique jewelry they are wearing.
The Internet has really brought handmade jewelry into its own. Artisans and jewelers from around the world can market their creations over the Internet, literally entering a global marketplace with just the cost of hosting a website and uploading a few digital photos. Websites usually provide a good cross-section of what the artisan produced, but also allow you to communicate about custom pieces he might be interested in making. Another great place to locate both handmade jewelry and the artisans themselves are the seasonal craft shows that commonly take place around the holiday season in most areas. This will give you a good idea of what is available locally, which can save you additional shipping costs and delays associated with online transactions.
Many handmade jewelry items feature elements such as gems, semi-precious stones, or even polished rock that is native to the area where the artisan resides. Often this in itself creates the unique quality of the jewelry, as the materials themselves are not available in stores or in mass-produced jewelry items. In addition, artisan jewelry can also reset or use some of those odd pieces you have in your jewelry box, such as individual earrings, hopelessly grouped gold and silver chains, and even rings that no longer fit together and make them one-of-a-kind. and new creations that you can wear with pride.
Some artisans will also fill custom orders. This is a wonderful way to design your own jewelry with the help of someone who can provide ideas, assistance, and usually won’t charge as much as a custom designed piece from a jeweler. Of course, there are very unique handmade items that you might want a designer to produce, such as a set of wedding and engagement rings or an anniversary or family band. However, before you go to a traditional jeweler, you may want to spend some time browsing the internet to find out what is available.
Beaded jewelry is still very popular, although styles and materials have changed over the years. Modern beaded earrings, necklaces, bracelets and even anklets feature various types of precious and semi-precious stones, decorative silver and gold beads and truly unique pieces made from natural materials such as coral, crystal and shells. These items are both functional and beautiful, and can often be paired with traditional jewelry for a highly polished, high-fashion look.