Why do people wear jewelry and why do I make jewelry?

I have been asked this question a lot over the years and there are many answers to this question. One of the obvious answers is that this has been my job for the last 15 years and sometimes I think that is all I really know. I will admit, I really like being my own boss. I don't have to worry about calling in sick or asking for time off. I have been there and I do not want to go back.

However, the main reason is how creating makes me feel.  It is well known that engaging in any creative activity produces the feel good hormones. Creating something everyday can help process emotions, and decrease depression or anxiety.  It can even provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

For me, the good vibes I get  even out weighs the difficult financial times I have gone through. However, in the past, I have had two jobs to help with my expenses because as we know reality can be hard and we all have bills to pay.

I am pretty sure, even if I was a painter, a knitter or a potter I would still get lost in the in the whole feel good process of creating my art work. Working with my hands and creating has become part of me. It is who I am.

So why jewelry? Would it be too scary if I said it was fire? Lol. Fire can be very destructive but at the same time it can have the power to create. With the heat of the fire you can shape, forge and solder metal into rings, necklaces and so much more.

It never gets old for me watching the shimmer when the solder flows or seeing the different colors (heat patina) that forms on base metals when annealing.

Experimenting with new techniques is another favorite. It always feels like an exciting new adventure as if I am exploring a new world. It also means new tools, which is always great. You never stop learning with the metalsmithing craft.

It also seems that there is a connection between why I love to make jewelry and why people feel the need to wear jewelry. Creating is part of me, or my identity so to speak. It brings me joy and gives me a sense of empowerment and accomplishment.  Wearing jewelry has been a form a adornment for thousands of years. Ancestors used jewelry to reflect their identity, age, social status or represent membership of a group. Even ancient civilizations had their own jewelry style and reasons for wearing it.

Egyptians used a lot of gold because for them it symbolized the sun god RA. They believed it to be a divine metal with magical powers. It symbolized wealth, power, and immortality. They would adorn themselves with gold jewelry to reflect their divine status. Mayan and Aztec instead used mostly silver to represent the their nobility.

Today,  jewelry is used for self expression and personal style. It also has sentimental value and spiritual value to some. It can also satisfy ones psychological needs of being accomplished or loved.

If you are either creating jewelry or wearing your favorite artisan jewelry designs there are always special reasons and emotions behind both. Even more so for handmade artisan jewelry. So much attention to detail and love goes into each jewelry design. Laura