Handmade v's Mass-Produced: Why craftmanship matters!
As we know, in today’s world, everything is now (unfortunately!) super quick and fast- and this is including fashion and jewellery!
Fast fashion is often cheaper and more accessible, but a handmade piece offers character and an individual element that a mass-produced item never could- as well as having your own individual piece which will last a lifetime!
There are a few points to consider with Handmade v’s Mass-produced jewellery:
Handmade jewellery
- Superior quality with high levels of craftsmanship
- Created individually
- Uses traditional techniques (such as forging, soldering, annealing, stone setting, saw piercing) which take years to learn and perfect.
- Silver and gemstones are sourced by the silversmith
- No two pieces are totally identical, meaning you truly have an individual one-of-a-kind piece!
- Handmade can offer a more deeper connection to the jewellery or giver/recipient as they represent thoughtfulness
- The jeweller may offer personalisation, allowing customers to choose stones, engravings or designs that hold a personal meaning
- Each piece inspected thoroughly to meet the highest standard
- Many independent jewellers prioritise ethical scouring of materials, use recycled metals and conflict free gemstones
- Because the jewellery is made in small batches, it reduces waste and over production.
Mass Produced Jewellery
- Manufactured in large quantities
- Often made using machines
- Uses lower cost materials, cheaper alloys and synthetic stones
- Plated jewellery which will tarnish quickly, the plate will rub off and can irritate the skin (will also cause a green tinge)
- Weak solder joints which will break easier
- Designed to be identical to appeal to the current trend- this means you will be wearing a piece that millions of other people might own.
- Large scale production often leads to high levels of waste and unethical labour practices
- Items are often made in a different country and imported to the UK
- Encourages a throwaway culture, where jewellery is quickly discarded and replaced by the next trend.
So, while mass-produced jewellery may offer affordability and convenience, handmade jewellery provides something far more valuable: uniqueness, emotional connection & quality.
Each piece will be handmade with love, reflects true craftsmanship, and stands the test of time. Whether it’s a handcrafted sterling silver ring or a personalised necklace, handmade jewellery is a meaningful investment in quality, uniqueness, and sustainability!
And we also, just LOVE making it for you!