Over the past few years, you may have noticed that some of my jewelry prices have changed. I wanted to take a moment to share a little insight into why that happens and what goes into the pricing of handmade jewelry.
How Precious Metal Prices Affect Fine Jewelry
The most visible change has been the rising cost of precious metals. Gold, silver, and platinum have all increased substantially in price over the last several years. These materials form the foundation of much of my work, whether they appear as solid precious metal, vermeil finishes, hand-fabricated components, stone settings, chains, clasps, or details hidden within a piece.
Their prices are determined by global markets, where economic shifts, investment and industrial demand, and limited supply can all drive costs higher. As a jeweler, I experience these changes directly each time I purchase materials.
For many people, metal pricing can feel a bit abstract. A necklace or ring does not suddenly look different when the market price of gold changes. However, the same piece may cost significantly more to create today because the raw materials needed to make it have become more expensive.
Materials Are Only Part of the Story
The costs surrounding a small creative business have also risen. Shipping, packaging, insurance, studio equipment, tools, utilities, and specialized services have all become more expensive over time. While each increase may seem small on its own, together they have a meaningful impact on what it takes to design, create, and deliver handcrafted jewelry.
Even as these expenses increase, I continue to look for ways to limit their impact on my customers. Offering complimentary shipping is one way I absorb part of the rising cost rather than adding it to each order.
For some custom projects, I can also incorporate metals and gemstones from a customer’s existing jewelry or family heirlooms. When the materials are suitable for reuse, they can be given new life within a contemporary design. This reduces the need to source entirely new materials while preserving the history and personal meaning they already hold.
These efforts do not eliminate the larger changes in material and studio costs, but they are part of my commitment to keeping the purchasing experience personal and thoughtful.
Why Small-Batch Handmade Jewelry Is Different
Unlike large jewelry brands that produce thousands of identical pieces at a time, every piece I create is made in small batches or individually by hand. Many designs begin as hand-carved sculptures before being cast, fabricated, stone-set, and finished in my studio. This slower, more intentional process allows me to create work with a distinctive character and level of craftsmanship, but it also means I experience rising material costs more directly than larger manufacturers.
Working at this scale also allows me to remain close to every stage of production. Each piece can be inspected individually for the security of its stone settings, the function of its clasps and hinges, the quality of its finish, and the way it balances and feels on the body. When something requires additional attention, I can respond to the needs of that particular piece rather than rely solely on a standardized production process.
Why Replacement Cost Matters for Handmade Jewelry
One of the most challenging realities of running a small studio is that pricing cannot simply reflect what materials cost in the past. It must also account for what it will cost to create and replace that work in the future. If a piece sells today, I need to be able to source the same materials again tomorrow and continue creating sustainably.
Sustainable pricing also allows me to choose materials and construction methods for their quality and longevity, rather than simply selecting the least expensive way to reproduce a design.
How Thoughtful Pricing Supports an Independent Jewelry Studio
My goal has always been to build a business that allows me to keep making meaningful work for years to come. Thoughtful pricing helps support that goal. It allows me to continue investing in quality materials, developing new collections, offering custom work, and creating jewelry that is designed to be worn, treasured, and passed along.
It also supports the less visible work that it takes to create each piece with integrity.
Care That Continues After Purchase
The relationship with a piece does not necessarily end when it leaves the studio. Customers can contact the studio with questions about sizing, materials, and caring for their jewelry. Cleaning, replating, and re-oxidation services are also available by request when a piece needs attention over time. This continued support helps customers maintain and enjoy their jewelry rather than simply replace it.
What You Support When You Buy Handmade Jewelry
When you purchase from Shana Kroiz Jewelry, you are supporting far more than the materials themselves. You are supporting an independent artist, small-scale production, hand craftsmanship, careful sourcing, and the countless hours spent designing, making, and refining each piece.
You are also supporting a direct relationship between the studio and the wearer, where questions can be answered by people who understand how the jewelry was designed, constructed, and finished.
The Heart of the Work Remains the Same
Every piece is still created with the same care, curiosity, and respect for the materials that inspired me to begin this work. I am deeply grateful for your support and for the opportunity to create jewelry that becomes part of your story.