Original Jewelry: A Great Gift Idea

If you’re looking for a great Mother’s Day’s gift this year look beyond the usual and give the gift of original, handcrafted jewelry. Fine craftspersons and jewelry makers take great pride in their work and enjoy the art of creating beautiful keepsakes for their customers. Original jewelry varies greatly in style, material and is often very affordable. Here are some tips for buying the perfect piece:

1. Shop around online. Many fine craftspersons are learning that the Internet is a great way to promote their work to a global audience. Try searching for unique items on Froogle (www.froogle.com), Google’s shopping network. Or browse through an online art portal such as Artists’ Heaven (www.artistsheaven.com). At Artists’ Heaven you’ll find original silver pieces from Eva B. Jewelry. Jewelry makes for a great online purchase because it is typically very safe and easy to ship.

2. Find a jeweler whose work meets your budgetary and personal style and make it a tradition to purchase a new piece each year. This works well with artists who create different pieces in the same style such as earrings, bracelets, etc. where you might collect a matching set. Also on Artists’ Heaven, Cat Massof of Kitty Delux Jewelry creates affordable and unique hand-beaded pieces. According to Massof, her customers return because, "They want pieces that stand out and are different than what everyone else has."

3. Can’t find exactly what you are looking for? Many jewelers will customize pieces. This works especially well if your gift recipient collects something special or has a near and dear treasure you’d like to emulate. For example, Sigi Jewelry (www.sigidesign.com) creates customized pet jewelry from your own photos.

Remember, there is a certain pride in ownership of having a hand-made piece that can’t be matched. And once you’ve found that perfect piece for Mother, don’t forget Teacher Appreciation Day is just around the corner!