Emotional Undertones Equal Success for Jewelry Designers

Emotional Undertones Equal Success for Jewelry Designers

It’s no secret that women love jewelry.  As a fashion item that’s small and easy to store and purchase, there’s really no way to run out of room or funding for more and more jewelry, making it an excellent choice when looking to enter the fashion arena in a creative capacity.

Part of the charm and challenge of jewelry making is the styles and trends in jewelry are far more subjective compared to fashion.  Each season may have over-arching trends but each individual also has preferences which may last a lifetime.

What are the keys to success for jewelry makers?

If you are making jewelry and struggling to find a fan base, the first thing you should do is take a step back. Realise that people buy jewelry because they feel an emotional connection to it. Whether that connection goes as deep as an inherited piece of jewelry from Grandma or that it looks like a fun adornment for a Friday night out, there is some weight attached to a jewelry purchase that sets jewelry making apart from other branches of fashion.

How can I create jewelry that connects to women emotionally?

There are various categories of jewelry which have their own stories and appeal that have experienced great success as of late.

1. Rescued Jewelry.  Many jewelry makers today are rescuing pieces of vintage and historical jewelry or other objects and incorporating them into their own modern designs. People connect to the authenticity and the history, as well of the intrigue around whom else might have worn that particular piece.

Rescued Jewelry Earrings

2. Whimsical Jewelry.  When working with whimsical themes, it is possible to draw on the heartstrings of a greater audience. For example, including charms on necklaces in the shape of or fashioned out of nostalgic toys, in the shape of certain animals or plants, or reworked from everyday objects like spoons or thimbles. While the actual object might be new to the buyer, the sense of whimsy created makes for an instant emotional connection.  Many examples are available on sites like Etsy.

Whimsical Jewelry

3. Artisan Jewelry.  Pieces of jewelry made in the traditional style and with the traditional technique of peoples who have long practiced jewelry making have begun to reach a growing audience. No longer are people simply interested in such pieces while on vacation as souvenirs, but rather they are willing to seek out such jewelry and pay a premium for it. This can also be seen as a ‘charitable purchase’ by many buyers. Good examples can be found on the website NOVICA.

Artisan Jewelry

4. Jewelry Fashioned from Unusual Materials. Finding a new and creative way to re-purpose everyday materials into interesting jewelry has become extremely trendy and popular. Jewelry pieces are no longer made from gold and silver but alternative metals like titanium or funkier choices like duct tape, plastic, aluminum or bottle caps.  There are even boutiques in Melbourne selling jewelry with bangles made of old bread encased in plastic or glass. Get creative and keep reaching out at craft markets and on the web to find an audience who appreciates your unique jewelry and creative vision.