Jewellery making is a highly skilled and creative craft, enabling artisans to produce distinctive, handmade pieces such as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and brooches. For many, it begins as a hobby and evolves into a part-time or full-time business. Jewellery makers often sell their creations through popular online platforms like Etsy and Folksy, as well as at local craft fairs and markets.
This guide provides the essential steps to start a jewellery business, covering training opportunities, current market trends, and important commercial and legal considerations.
Qualifications and skills
To build a successful jewellery business acquiring the right skills is essential. Several courses can help jewellery makers refine their craft and develop business acumen:
- Starting a Jewellery Business – A free three-part video course from Jewellers Academy, covering business planning, pricing, and strategy. Additional courses include Instagram for Jewellers, Online Marketing, and Pinterest for Jewellers.
- Jewellery-Making Courses – A variety of online classes in silver jewellery, stone setting, enamelling, and filigree are available through Jewellers Academy
- Jewellery Maker Tutorials – Free beginner, intermediate, and advanced tutorials on various jewellery-making techniques, provided by Jewellery Maker TV.
Additional resources include industry journals and trade events:
- The Jeweller – Published quarterly by the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ). (www.naj.co.uk/jeweller-magazine)
- Findings – A trade journal for contemporary jewellers. (acj.org.uk/index.php/findings-magazine)
- Gems & Jewellery – Published by the Gemmological Association of Great Britain. (gem-a.com/publications/gems-and-jewellery)
- Desire Jewellery & Silversmithing Fairs – Annual trade events in Oxfordshire and Surrey. (www.desirefair.com)
- Jewellery & Watch – Bi-annual trade shows at the NEC, Birmingham. (www.autumnfair.com/show-sectors/jewellery-watch)
Trading, Commercial, and Legal Considerations
Trade Bodies Joining a trade association can provide valuable support, including networking opportunities, legal advice, and supplier discounts. Some key organisations include:
- The Guild of Jewellery Designers – Offers design protection and networking opportunities. Basic membership is free.
- The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) – Provides copyright and design protection, legal support, and discounted exhibition space. Membership costs £224 per year, plus a £100 application fee.
- The Association for Contemporary Jewellery (ACJ) – Members receive access to industry publications and supplier discounts. Membership costs £60 per year.
Jewellery-Making Equipment
Investing in the right tools is essential for quality craftsmanship. Examples include:
- Soldering irons (£40–£65) and solder (£10–£100)
- Polishing machines (£60–£500)
- Drills (£10–£20)
- Planishing hammers (£20–£75) and blocks (£20–£60)
- Pliers, cutters, and shears (£5 each or £30 for a set)
- Hand files (£5–£50 each or £120 for a set)
- Triblets and mandrels (£25–£50)
- Gemstones – Semi-precious stones (£1–£30 each), precious gemstones (£30–£500 each)
- Findings – Clasps, spacers, and ring bases (£2–£10 for a pack of ten)
- Beading thread (£4 per 500 metres)
Suppliers such as Palmer Metals, Bellore Rashbel, and Cooksongold offer a wide selection of jewellery-making materials and tools.
Hallmarking Requirements
Under the Hallmarking Act 1973, jewellery makers must ensure that any item made from precious metals (above a certain weight) is independently tested and hallmarked by an official UK assay office.
Exemptions apply to:
- Silver filigree items
- Gold items under 1g, silver under 7.78g, platinum under 0.5g, and palladium under 1g
UK Assay Offices:
Jewellery makers must also display the British Hallmarking Council’s Dealer’s Notice at their premises and on their website. This can be downloaded for free from any UK assay office website or obtained as a printed copy for £10.
Further details on hallmarking can be found at:
- www.gov.uk/government/publications/hallmarking-guidance-notes
- www.gov.uk/government/news/new-hallmarking-dealers-notice-available
Launching a jewellery business takes dedication, creativity, and a willingness to learn. By developing your technical skills, gaining business knowledge, and staying informed about industry standards, you can turn your passion into a thriving and rewarding enterprise. Making use of training resources, joining professional associations, and ensuring legal compliance will help you set your jewellery business up for long-term success.
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