Just because a piece of jewelry isn’t make of precious metals and gems doesn’t mean it’s not worth wearing. As far as I’m concerned, if it’s pretty or interesting to look at, I’ll wear it!
That being said, there are times when it’s nice to have something closer to fine jewelry. Especially if you are thinking about gift giving.
The traditional definition of fine jewelry is that it’s about gold, platinum and diamonds. However, you might want to read this interesting article: Redefining Fine Jewelry.
Like I mentioned in the video, my idea was based on the above piece of jewelry available at Costco last Valentine’s day. I was curious to see how much it would cost to recreate this in all karat gold materials, thus making it truly “fine jewelry.”
What I found at Fire Mountain Gems and Rio Grande (choosing their best prices):
- $68.16 Chain, Gossamer™, 14Kt gold, 1mm oval cable, 24 inches with springring clasp
- $11.13 Pearl, White Lotus™, cultured freshwater, peach and mauve, 7.5-8mm, 16-inch strand
- $26.49 Headpin, 14Kt gold, 1-1/2 inches, 24 gauge (You’ll need 3.)
- $ 6.50 14K Yellow Gold Snap-On Pendant Bail
- $ 9.46 Jumpring, 14Kt gold, 4mm soldered round, 22 gauge. Sold per pkg of 2
- $15.88 Jumpring, 14Kt gold, 6x4mm oval, 24 gauge. Sold per pkg of 4
Grand total = $137.62
Of course, you still have to take into account shipping costs, that fact that you may left over quantities you don’t need, and your time and labor.
Looks like that Costco price was quite reasonable!
Here are the tools and materials for my rather nice, but slightly less posh version:
- 3 10mm Swarovski crystal hearts, the colors I used were Rose, Light Rose and Astral Pink
- gold necklace chain with clasp
- gold plated swivel tube bail
- 4 5 or 6 mm gold jump rings
- 3-4 inches of gold filled chain
- 3x4mm gold filled oval jump rings (may or may not be necessary, depending on your other findings
Personally, I’d be just as happy with a pretty, well-designed piece that is made of gold-filled materials, rather than all karat gold.
The only thing that would make a difference in my thinking would be knowing that solid gold jewelry doesn’t lose its value, and will be worth something in a financial crisis.
What are your thoughts on the subject?
Enjoy the video and happy creating!
Watch the Precious Hearts Necklace-Swarovski Crystal and Gold Filled Findings Jewelry Tutorial video at YouTube.
oh, Sandy, what a so gorgeous and nice necklace! I do love when you create jewelry pieces, you’re always so tricky 🙂
Blessings
Marie
Thank you, Marie! It’s good to hear from you. Glad you like it. 🙂