Why Invest in Handmade Jewelry?

Handmade jewelry is a higher price than what you can pick up from Target, yes. But what are the actual quality differences? What makes a Jasper & Elm beaded necklace better than one at Target or TJ Maxx?

Quality & Craftsmanship

After working with jewelry daily for four years, I feel like I can claim some sort of expert knowledge on this - although there is always learning to be done! With this knowledge, I have had plenty of time trying and trying and TRYING to perfect my work.

When you buy handmade, you are buying years and countless hours of practice, trial and error, and maybe even some tears. Each item tells a story and carries a piece of my heart.

Ethical Practices

I work hard to source my findings from ethical suppliers, with a focus on base materials made in the USA and from woman-owned brands!

This does add a considerable amount of time and added expense, but I think it is worth it for superior quality.

One-of-a-Kind Designs

The best part of shopping handmade is that you get something exclusive! While most earrings are also made in small amounts (fewer than ten pairs for many designs!), the necklaces are basically entirely one-of-a-kind. This means that you will be walking around wearing perhaps the ONLY style made!

A great example is this dalmatian jasper and upcycled vintage glass bead necklace. The glass beads came from a vintage bracelet, so there were only enough for one necklace! Unless I manage to find the exact same beads, there will only ever be one of these necklaces. 

Handmade is Best!

I am biased, of course...but handmade will always be my pick for jewelry! I love getting to support an independent artist and their family, not to mention shopping from a small business directly impacts the economy.

What reasons do you have for buying handmade jewelry? Drop them in the comments!