I am Urania, the designer of the jewelry at uraniajewelry.com. Today, I decided to write this article to explain the difference between handmade and non-handmade jewelry.
The methods of crafting handmade jewelry are very specific. The most common methods include:
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The lost wax method: In this technique, the desired design is carved on wax. Then, using a casting machine, the wax is cast to obtain the jewelry in metal form. The jewelry undergoes detailed processing to achieve shine and beauty. Some designers also use 3D printers to create a wax model before the casting process. The use of the printer requires knowledge of relevant programs, which can be quite challenging and require design experience.
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The classic soldering method on a silversmith's bench using a blowpipe, which I apply to most of my designs.
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The filigree method, which is a technique where delicate wires are soldered together in intricate patterns (you can find this technique in famous Ioannina jewelry in Greece).
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The cold connections method, where metal pieces are forged and joined together using various wire wrapping techniques. The metals commonly used in these techniques are gold, silver, brass, alpaca, and occasionally, alloy.
In recent years, aluminum and titanium have shown significant growth in the field of jewelry making. However, they can only be shaped using the cold connections method because their chemical properties prevent them from being soldered using traditional methods. Nevertheless, their soft texture makes them easy to shape, allowing artisans to create quickly and effortlessly.
On the other hand, non-handmade jewelry is produced using machines and technology. The most common production methods include:
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The use of construction machines: Machines can cut, shape, and add details to non-handmade jewelry. This process is usually faster and more efficient than handmade crafting, but it may lack the uniqueness and value of handmade jewelry.
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The use of CAD/CAM technology: CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) technology are used for designing and manufacturing jewelry. The design is done on a computer, and CAM machines are used for precise cutting and shaping of the jewelry based on the design.
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The use of presses: Special high-pressure presses are often used in factories to press various metal sheets and create jewelry that appears carved. All three methods have their advantages, and the choice between them depends on the preferences of the manufacturer and consumers.
Certain metals cannot be handmade due to their shaping processes requiring extremely high temperatures and specialized tools. One of these metals is steel. All steel jewelry you see is manufactured in factories.
All the jewelry sold at low prices on various foreign websites, usually from China and Thailand, is typically made of questionable quality and ethical conditions. They are often made from metals like alloy or low-grade alloys that, in many cases, contain nickel and are mass-produced in molds. It is common to find issues with their durability and overall quality.
As a designer of handmade jewelry, I focus on creating unique and high-quality pieces that reflect my craftsmanship and artistic vision. Handmade jewelry offers a personal touch and attention to detail that sets it apart from mass-produced alternatives.