Thinner, lighter, cheaper

This is a piece I just completed. It is a first in a limited production run that will build on this theme.

This piece is made of 20 gauge sterling, with a handmade 18 gauge chain. In the jewelry world, gauge means how thick the metal is. Hence the title of this blog -- thinner, lighter, cheaper. That's the credo of the commercial jewelry world. Make it thinner, make it lighter, make it cheaper -- for the producer and retailer, not the consumer. So, we have abominations like hollow gold and silver that dents if you look at it wrong.

20 gauge is fairly hefty. This piece has a little weight to it, you feel like you have something substantial. It has been hammered, and the rings attaching the discs have been soldered closed. There is a matching hammered toggle for closure.

There are lots of advantages to buying artisan jewelry. First, it is someone's original design. You won't see it everywhere. Most of my pieces are "one offs," one-of-a-kinds, that is. Or, as with this one, limited production pieces. There will be others in this line that will resemble it, but not be exactly like it. And most importantly, I don't skimp on materials, or attention to detail. You won't find this piece making the trip from high-end "gotta have it" Tiffany's to "everybody's got it" Walmart wear.

Something to think about ...