Why Buy Handmade?

Buying Handmade makes for better gift-giving.

The giver of a handmade gift has avoided the parking lots and long lines of the big chain stores in favor of something more meaningful. If the giver has purchased the gift, s/he feels the satisfaction of supporting an artist or crafter directly. The recipient of the handmade gift receives something that is one-of-a-kind, and made with care and attention that can be seen and touched. It is the result of skill and craftsmanship that is absent in the world of large-scale manufacturing.

Buying handmade is better for people.

The ascendancy of chain store culture and global manufacturing has left us dressing, furnishing, and decorating alike. We are encouraged to be consumers, not producers, of our own culture. Our ties to the local and human sources of our goods have been lost. Buying handmade helps us reconnect.

Buying handmade is better for the environment.

The accumulating environmental effects of mass production are a major cause of global warming and the poisoning of our air, water and soil. Every item you make or purchase from a small-scale independent artist or crafter strikes a small blow to the forces of mass production.

“I pledge to buy handmade this holiday season and request that others do the same for me.” 

If you want to support anything and everything handmade, go to www.buyhandmade.org to make your pledge. Then reply to this blog posting to let me know…it would be really cool if you did!

*Information courtesy of http://www.buyhandmade.org/why-buy-handmade

Now featuring 37 new fall designs! 

Browse a lovely assortment of amethyst, carnelian, turquoise, agate and many other designer pieces. All are handmade using sterling silver, gold filled and other fine materials.

View all of the 2008 fall designs by clicking here.

Want to wear more jewelry? Don’t know where to start? Here are a few tips on how to get started. I have pulled together a list of pieces that should be included in every woman’s jewelry collection:

1) Pendant Necklace - A pendant necklace is versatile and can add a sturdy focal point to many ensembles.

2) Cuff Bracelets- These are easy to mix and match. Silver cuff bracelets accent your everyday jewelry magnificently!

3) Pearls – Available in many different lengths, pearls are the perfect touch of class and sophistication that is always in style.

4) Long/linear Earrings - The eye is naturally attracted to geometric lines and angles. Long earrings catch the eye and add an flattering element to any outfit.

5) Chunky Ring- Who doesn’t appreciate an over sized cocktail ring? Whether it is made of turquoise, black onyx or citrine, at least one is necessary.

6) Charm Bracelet – Charm bracelets add a little funk to your attire, whether it be full of your own hand picked charms or a fun thing to look at throughout the day.

7) Long Chain Necklace – Long chains can compliment the many outfits of your life and lengthen your overall appearance. Try mixing and matching silver and gold long chain necklaces for a new twist.

8) Diamond Studs – Classic, beautiful and forever a staple. Try wearing diamond studs with your more complicated jewelry pieces. They will make sure that you don’t look too “over-done”!

Is there a jewelry piece that is missing from this list? Just click on the above title of this blog posting to leave a comment.