Walk down any street in an American city -- I live in New York, but it doesn't matter where you are -- and almost everyone is wearing some sort of jewelry. Lately even men are getting into the trend -- wearing paired hoop earrings -- one on each ear.
Most people are wearing the standard fashions you see in department and chain jewelry stores. Current fashion jewelry takes good advantage of colored stones and modern jewelry making techniques, and so there is a vast array of truly beautiful commercially made jewelry available. For most people, that's fine. There are some of us that want something different ... something with feeling ... something handmade.
Handcrafted items take a person with skill and talent time to make using hand tools.
Handmade jewelry isn't confined to the boundaries factory made jewelry must have simply because it is mass produced. In order to make thousands of pieces that look exactly the same they have to be made in exactly the same manner. Machines can do that easily and cheaply. Each piece of handcrafted jewelry can be different, like the artist.
We all know the difference between a home cooked meal and fast food. Handmade sweaters are a more personal gift than machine made sweaters. Handcrafted jewelry is special in the same way. The person who made it cared about what they were doing. The artist hoped this creation would find a home with someone who would know, feel and truly appreciate the unique nature of their jewelry.
Handcrafted jewelry can be made of almost any material. Designs can vary with every piece. It is truly an art form. Most jewelry artisans design unique rings, pendants, earrings or other jewelry items. Many will make a series of related designs that compliment each other. The creative process is different for everyone. The limited manufacture of handmade jewelry is what drives the artist to constantly create new designs.
Art has many mediums. Contemporary art jewelry is made with an endless array of beads from all over the world. It can be made from rubber, many types of metal, plastic, glass and even paper. Art jewelry is available to fit every individual and every budget.
People are starting to notice. They ask - "Wow -- where did you find that pin?" or "That is SO different -- I LOVE it!" More are shopping in small stores, craft fairs and online from small artisans. Handmade jewelry is becoming more popular every day.
Consider handcrafted jewelry the next time you're shopping for someone special. The lucky recipient will know you cared for them and spent the time to find a truly unique and personal gift.
