Jewelry Report

Jewelry reviews, interviews with artists, and the latest jeweler news

Offer Free Alterations

Making jewelry to fit all sizes is nearly impossible. You can get closer by adding extender chains or other adjustable options, but there will still be people who need a custom size. In addition to sizes, some customers will want to change the clasp, and even the layout of beads sometimes. If you can offer alterations to your customers at no charge, you will increase sales. Even better still, if you can do this on the spot at shows and markets, you will get sales you would have otherwise lost. Read more about Offer Free Alterations

Tornado Crimp Beads

Sometimes in a jeweler’s life, there comes a product that is so different it completely revolutionizes the way that jewelry makes jewelry. For me, tornado crimp beads are one of those products. In fact, I might credit tornado crimps with my jewelry business success, because without them, I surely would have perished from sheer frustration before my business ever had a chance to take off. Read more about Tornado Crimp Beads

Organza Bags Make Great Packaging

When you sell jewelry, how you package the finished product can be very important. If you are just starting out, affording very elaborate packaging may be out of the question, but you still need to make a good presentation when you had that purchase over to the customer. Read more about Organza Bags Make Great Packaging

Use Square for Taking Credit Cards at Shows

"Square will ship you the reader for free, and you don’t pay a dime until you process a transaction. "

More people pay with bank and credit cards now than with cash or checks. In fact, many people have stopped buying checks for their bank accounts and many businesses no longer accept them. Because of this, if you sell jewelry at craft shows, farmers markets or anywhere else that you deal with people face to face, you really should consider accepting credit cards. Read more about Use Square for Taking Credit Cards at Shows

Receipts are for More than Tax Purposes

If you have a jewelry business, you probably already know that you need to retain all of your business receipts as proof in case you are audited. Receipts can help serve another purpose, though. They can be proof of what you are selling. In the case of semi-precious gemstones, precious metals and other higher value items, keeping your receipts is important to prove you are selling what you say you are in the case of a dispute. Read more about Receipts are for More than Tax Purposes

Fishing Tackle Boxes Make Excellent Bead Storage

One of the biggest drawbacks to making jewelry is figuring out what to do with all of those beads. Jewelry designers, by nature, tend to be bead hounds, and if left unchecked, most of us will spend our life savings on the cool new beads we find at bead stores. There has to be a way to keep those beads organized without spending a fortune or installing industrial storage systems. Read more about Fishing Tackle Boxes Make Excellent Bead Storage

Make Your Own Earring Cards

Display makes a big difference in how effective your craft shows and markets will be. One of the most important things you can do is to stand out, but in a stylish, fashionable way. Creating your own packaging can help you develop a unique brand and draw attention to your jewelry in a positive way. Read more about Make Your Own Earring Cards

Make Money Selling on Etsy

"Of all the markets on Etsy, jewelry is definitely the most saturated."

If you make jewelry, you have lots of it to spare, I bet. I know when I get into a jewelry making mood, the stuff piles up like crazy around here. You may have considered selling to family and friends to get rid of some of the excess, but you may be missing out on a fantastic selling opportunity – Etsy.com. Read more about Make Money Selling on Etsy

Add a Touch of Exotic with Natural Beads

"Combining two types of natural gemstones is another great way to make a beautiful impact."

I love beading. I love the versatility and the way no two pieces will ever be alike. This is especially true when you use natural beads in your work. I think what appeals to most people about natural beads is their unique character. From wood and bone to semi-precious and precious gemstones, natural beads are where the real beauty is at. Read more about Add a Touch of Exotic with Natural Beads

Why You Should be Using Wire Guardians

"Wire guardians provide a polished, professional look and really make your jewelry look classy."

There are many components and fun things to buy when you are a jewelry designer. In fact, the choices are overwhelming. With so many tools, toys and gadgets to spend your money on, it is difficult to know what is actually worth the investment. When it comes to ensuring quality, durable jewelry, wire guardians are a must-have for any beader. Read more about Why You Should be Using Wire Guardians