How to Develop a Handcrafted Jewelry Wardrobe

Handcrafted artisan jewelry is a piece of art created directly by the artisan's hands. The artist has put considerable time and planning into creating each piece and has lovingly shaped it into its finished form. When you purchase a handmade jewelry design, you're getting something special. Here are some guidelines on how to choose handcrafted jewelry.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. What's your skin and hair color?
   
   If you have dark hair or hair with some grey undertones, handcrafted artisan jewelry in sterling silver can be stunning on you. Blondes tend to shine in jewelry designed in shades of gold. If you have red hair, you can experiment with handmade copper jewelry which is becoming more and more popular. There are no hard and fast rules. It's all about expressing your personal style.

2. Are you giving handmade jewelry as a gift?
   
   A handmade jewelry design makes a gift that's much appreciated. Your gift recipient will appreciate the fact that you've selected something unique and special as opposed to a mass produced item. When you buy handmade jewelry, you're getting the highest quality components and design because the artist has complete control over each phase of the creation process. This will be reflected in the beautiful craftsmanship that each artist instills in her work.

3. What's your skin and hair color?
   
   If you have dark hair or hair with some grey undertones, handcrafted artisan jewelry in sterling silver can be stunning on you. Blondes tend to shine in jewelry designed in shades of gold. If you have red hair, you can experiment with handmade copper jewelry which is becoming more and more popular. There are no hard and fast rules. It's all about expressing your personal style.

4. What is your body type?
   
   If you're small boned or petite in size, you might want to select handmade jewelry designs with smaller, more discrete beads and charms if you want to maintain proportion. If you're tall or big boned, you can get away with almost anything. Big chunky necklaces and layered looks are made for your body type. Bring on the drama! If you're petite and you still want to wear more dramatic pieces, don't be discouraged. If you dress in simple, solid colored clothing, a large, chunky necklace can still look great on you. Make it your focal piece and go simple on the earrings

5. What are your best features?
   
   Handcrafted artisan jewelry can be used to accentuate your best features. If you have tiny, elegant wrists, why not accent them with a beautiful handmade, artisan bracelet? Earrings draw attention to your face and the earring shape you choose can subtly alter your face shape. If your face is round in shape, a drop earring can make your face appear more oval. If your face tends to be a bit long, a round earring worn close to the ear may be most flattering. Have fun experimenting.