Commercially mass-produced jewelry is ubiquitous…
It can be found everywhere from high-end jewelry stores to shopping malls and discount stores. It is obviously popular and preferred by many, but I find it soul-less. It’s just a lot of shiny bling made by machines. I feel it lacks spirit and substance, whereas art jewelry created by hand is imbued with the imagination and passion of the artist making it. Usually one-of-a-kind or produced in limited edition, art jewelry just feels special!
Worn long or wrapped lariat style, I’ve been wearing my latest art jewelry piece constantly since I made it last week in Susan Lenart Kazmer’s class at Bead&Button. I have titled it “Good Juju”. Juju refers specifically to objects, such as amulets, and spells used superstitiously as part of witchcraft in West Africa. The caged element in this necklace holds an Azurite crystal believed to have healing powers and metaphysical properties. A bone bead from West Africa is seated below wrapped bronze and sterling silver wires. Faceted glass beads dangle freely from fine leather cord. While I’m not superstitious, I feel good luck coming my way!
Barbara Briggs Designs 
Reblogged this on Off The Grid Designs Blog and commented:
Yes!
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It s funny you talk about mass produced jewelry when Susan Lenart Kazmer sells mass produced jewelry products made in China-ugh- to places like Jo Annes & Michael’s. Wouldn’t you think she would have feeling against this since she is an artist herself? By the way love your good luck necklace : ) !!!
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Thank you, Erika! I can’t speak for others, but I certainly don’t like the idea of mass produced jewelry…especially from China!
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Thumbs up Barbara, I totally agree!!
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A real shame that many don’t know the true human cost of ‘cheep’ mass produced work. I wonder how many people would celebrate with a gift if they were fully aware of the, often times, appalling working conditions endured by the people who make it.
Thank you for a great blog.
Very best wishes.
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Thank you. So true and sadly, the fashion industry relies on cheap labor, which translates to higher profit margins for big conglomerates and deplorable wages and conditions for the workers!
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