Monday, July 23, 2012

Skill and Time Shows in Handmade Jewelry




When it comes to handmade jewelry, you can always tell how much time and skill went into a piece by what the piece looks like. While it is true that some time and skill is needed for any piece of handmade jewelry to be made, it is also true that there are varying levels of skill among jewelry makers. If you want the highest quality pieces, you will have to pay for the skill and time that it takes to create them.
The important thing to remember is that just because a piece is expensive doesn’t mean that it should be. You have to carefully examine handmade jewelry to determine its actual worth. You should be able to see the time and effort that was put into the piece. It should be exquisite and complex, rather than simple and ordinary. If it looks like something you could make yourself with instruction, even if it is a nicer piece, it is not really worth the money. But, if it is something that makes you think “wow, how did they do that” then it is definitely worth every penny.
There are some definite ways you can tell if a piece has the skill and time put into it that you are looking for in finely made handmade jewelry. Look at the type of jewelry first and foremost. Wire wrapped jewelry, especially if it is very well made, takes a lot of skill and patience, and is well worth the money it costs to purchase it. Complex beaded jewelry with many layers or rows is also a sign of superior craftsmanship. You can and should consider these pieces for your collection.
However, if you are ever in doubt, ask the crafter how they made the jewelry. While they may not give you detailed information because they don’t want you to be able to duplicate their work, they will likely give you a fair idea of the amount of time and effort it took to create the piece. They will also proudly let you know what went into the piece, and how long they have been making pieces like that one. This information, provided it is honestly given, will give you a fair idea of the quality and complexity of a piece.

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