A person involved in the jewelry trade may create and sell jewelry of his or her own design, manufacture jewellery for other jewelers or purchase pieces at wholesale prices for resale to customers. Many jewelers attend trade shows and participate in fairs to showcase their products and network with other professionals. Some also attend training programs, such as those offered by jewellery institutes and colleges, to acquire the skills necessary to run a successful jewelry business. Other ways to learn the trade include taking a summer job at a department store or working as an apprentice or trainee in a jewelry factory.
Most jewellery is a form of personal art and expression, and it is often seen as a mark of status. It can serve functional purposes, such as holding hair or clothing in place, as a means of commemorating a special event or expressing religious or political beliefs, or as a piece that simply makes a fashion statement. The jewellery industry is driven by trends in style and materials, and it is important for designers to be aware of the latest developments.
The earliest types of jewellery were simple items of utilitarian function. These included necklaces, earrings and rings that were often made from materials that were available locally. These materials were often copper, silver and gold, and these were used to produce jewellery that was both decorative and utilitarian. In the latter part of the 18th century, a trend toward the artistic use of jewellery emerged. This was fueled by movements such as the Darmstadt Artists’ Colony and the Wiener Werkstatte, and by the British arts and crafts movement and the works of Charles Robert Ashbee. In the 19th and 20th centuries, a wide range of materials were used to make jewellery, including glass (often fused with enamel), wood, shells, natural animal substances such as bone and ivory, and natural clay. Modern jewellery, like the art of its makers, continues to evolve.
Buying and selling jewellery at retail prices requires that a person have access to reliable suppliers who can supply high quality material at competitive prices. A person can find wholesalers by contacting manufacturers directly, or by visiting local jewellery stores and seeking out those who buy and sell their own designs. Purchasing from a wholesaler allows a person to offer lower retail prices, which can attract consumers who are not willing or able to pay the higher prices of luxury designer jewellery.
When selling jewelry online, it is important to have clear, compelling product descriptions that tell a story about the piece. Jewelry is an emotive item, and the power of a description that draws the customer in will increase conversion rates. It is also important to register your business and obtain the proper licenses and permits necessary for your type of business.
Another way to sell jewellery is to set up a stall at a local craft fair or market. This provides a more hands-on experience and can allow a person to sell jewelry to people who will appreciate the handmade nature of the pieces being sold.
