Bali Silver vs.
Bali “Style” Sterling Silver
© by Amie Brown; all rights reserved
Bali sterling silver beads and findings are each special and unique. They are handmade in Bali, Indonesia by silversmiths who over the generations have perfected their skills in creating sterling silver masterpieces. Each step involved in their creation is done by hand, and the end creation is usually given an "antiqued" finish to give a look of depth and bring out the special details of the designs. Bali sterling silver is more expensive and harder to acquire, so be aware of "bargain" Bali sterling silver that is usually made in India or made by machine. It is sometimes difficult to tell authentic Bali silver, but buying from reputable sellers and looking for details such as lines in beads that have been cast is helpful. Even this can be difficult. I had an experience at a large craft shop that carried beads that really frustrated me and opened my eyes. There were beads and findings for sale that were labeled Bali sterling silver at an unbelievable price. I asked the shop owner about the beads and she said they were authentic, and became very irritated with me. I asked her where they were made and she had no idea. It ends up that she really did not know anything about Bali silver and just labeled them that because they had the “look”. If a bead, toggle or finding was not handmade in Bali and made of sterling silver, then I suggest it be labeled "Bali style" sterling silver to indicate that it is sterling silver and finished to look like Bali silver but is not authentic. The quality of "Bali style" beads can be high and the look beautiful, but it is important to be clear and straightforward with customers and competitors. It undermines the handcrafted jewelry community when the term Bali silver is applied to everything regardless of where it was made and how. I do not claim to be a Bali silver expert by any stretch of the imagination, but I do think that we do each other and our customers an important service when we label our materials clearly and accurately. Best wishes and happy beading.
Author Amie Brown of Sparklecove creates handcrafted designer jewelry for the woman who appreciates originality, fine quality and excellent customer service. Free gift wrapping on all items.Return to top of Bali Silver vs. Bali “Style” Sterling Silver. Return to Jewelry Making Supplies. Return to Home Jewelry Business Success Tips home page.
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