QuestionHi,
1st of all,I'd like to say that I'm really quite a newbie at making jewelry.I fell in love with it immediately,so began to purchase learning materials,magazines,when I could/can.However,when it comes to online shopping,I'm rather lost!There are so many companies,I don't know where to began.I'm not ready for the really expensive materials,nor am I able to afford them-at all.I figured word-of-mouth might be the best way to go.Semi-quality,sure,but I am still in 'practicing' phase %26 would welcome very gratefully any advice you may have or any recommendations you might have.I've ordered from FireMountain a few times,but I thought it wise to explore as many options as I can.
Many,many thanks %26 happy designing/creating to you,Guinevere
AnswerGood morning Guinevere,
Congratulations! We can always use more artisans in the trade. Jewelry making is a true art and individually can be most rewarding. Some of the suppliers widely used by tradespeople for findings (parts) are Stuller Settings, Rio Grande, and Quality Gold just to name a few. You may want to join MJSA (Manufacturing Jewelers and Silversmiths Assn), they of course have a plethera of courses, sources, and options available based on the path you want to go. Also becoming a member of JBT, (The Jewelers Board of Trade) for credit and search purposes is important for anyone serious in wholesaling or retailing. I am excited for you and welcome you to drop me a line anytime on your progress and show me your work. If you need any additional help in marketing your self please do not hesitate to ask. I also can be a good source of Diamond contacts at lower prices than the aforementioned companies. Good luck.
Steve Kretser
