Not all jewelry is created equal

Let’s be honest—we’ve all looked at two similar pieces and thought, “Why is this one double the price?” Often, the answer lies in how it was made. Whether a piece is handcrafted or machine-produced affects everything from quality and detail to price and personality.

What makes handmade jewelry special?

Handmade jewelry is all about the human touch. Skilled artisans shape, solder, polish, and set each piece—often without mass production tools. The process takes longer, but the results are full of soul. Every slight variation tells a story. You’re wearing someone’s time, effort, and creativity.

And because no two handmade items are exactly the same, what you’re really getting is a one-of-a-kind piece. Even pieces made in small batches have subtle differences. That imperfect beauty? That’s the charm.

The appeal of machine-made jewelry

Now, let’s not knock machines—they’ve done wonders for the jewelry industry. Machine-made jewelry is faster to produce, more uniform, and often more affordable. With cutting-edge tech like 3D printing and precision lasers, manufacturers can create intricate designs with incredible accuracy.

So if you’re looking for consistency or buying multiple matching pieces (say, bridesmaid gifts), machine-made can be the way to go.

Which one lasts longer?

Durability really depends on the craftsmanship and materials, not just whether it's handmade or not. A high-quality machine-made ring can outlast a poorly made handmade one, and vice versa. But handmade pieces often get extra attention in the finishing process, which means smoother edges, secure settings, and a better polish.

So… which should you pick?

If you value uniqueness, artistry, and don’t mind paying a bit more for that, handmade is the way to go. If you’re after precision, affordability, or uniformity, machine-made might suit you better. And let’s not forget—many designers use both. They prototype and design with machines, then finish by hand. Best of both worlds.

At the end of the day…

Jewelry is personal. Whether it's made by hand or machine, what matters most is how it makes you feel when you wear it. Choose what speaks to you.