I've always loved making jewelry. There's something so satisfying about taking raw materials and turning them into beautiful, wearable art. But, like many jewelry makers, I've struggled with one particular element: finding consistently high-quality chain. It's the backbone of so many designs, and a flimsy or tarnishing chain can ruin even the most intricate pendant. So, I embarked on a journey to find the best sources, and I'm excited to share what I've learned!
When I first started, I bought chain from local craft stores. It was convenient, sure, but the quality was often lacking. The chains would tarnish quickly, break easily, and generally didn't hold up to regular wear. This was especially frustrating because I wanted to sell my pieces, and I couldn't in good conscience sell something that wouldn't last. I knew I needed to up my game, but where to start?
I realized that "quality" means different things to different people. For some, it might be about the durability of the metal. For others, it's about the appearance or the price point. For me, it was a combination of all three. I needed a chain that was strong, beautiful, and affordable enough to keep my prices competitive.
My first attempt was to dive into online marketplaces. I tried ordering a few different chains from various vendors. It was a bit of a gamble, but I figured it was worth a shot. The results were mixed. Some chains were exactly as described, while others were clearly misrepresented. It was a learning experience, to say the least.
One thing I quickly learned was the importance of material. I initially gravitated towards plated metals because they were cheaper. However, I soon realized that the plating would wear off over time, revealing the base metal underneath. This was a major turnoff for customers, so I decided to focus on solid metals instead. I like sterling silver, but the cost can add up quickly. I didn’t want to jack up my prices too much even though my necklaces and bracelets were all handmade.
That's when I started experimenting with stainless steel. I was pleasantly surprised by its durability and resistance to tarnishing. It's also much more affordable than sterling silver, which helped me keep my prices reasonable. Plus, there are some really cool designs available in stainless steel these days. For example, I recently discovered a really unique EDC Finger Fidget Spinner Stainless Steel Chain Rotatable Ring Men Classical Rome Digital Power Sense Gift. It's a ring, but the chain detail is fantastic, and it sparked some ideas for new jewelry designs.
I even got one for myself in blue, and I love how it looks and feels. It's a fun, fidget-friendly accessory that also demonstrates the versatility of stainless steel chain. You can find it at this Blingcharming product page.
I also realized that there are dedicated jewelry supply stores that offer much better quality chain than craft shops. Craft shops are great for hobbyists, but if you're serious about selling jewelry, you need to find a supplier that caters to professionals. These suppliers often have a wider selection of materials, better prices, and more consistent quality control.
Here are a few tips I've learned along the way: