Apparently, the level of increase has outpaced the level of increase gold has experienced. I anticipate silver and copper prices to rise due to stock trading, EV industry, tech and AI development 🫤

I’m inclined to think it’s both. I think they have the traits to get them there; once there, it (money/power) enhances their already driven appetites to insatiable levels; all of that money then emboldens them to go even further, do and be whatever they want with impunity.

Perhaps, this sociopathic tendency gives them the tools, ruthlessness, lack of empathy to acquire that kind of exorbitant wealth, lust for power and control in the first place?

Same🫩

🥰🤗

Yes! 🙌 💪👏👊🫶

I had to explain soldering to a friend…they thought I used some type of glue…

So, yes, they are $95

For example, I hand sawed this shape out of 24g brass sheet. I filed, sanded, shaped the ring out of 18g wire, fused it together, fused it to the brass. I granulated those silver balls myself…out of Argentium scraps, fused them to the brass. I hammered every divot, sanded off fire stain for hours.

5/
you’ve purchased and labeled “handmade.”

Just my two cents…

4/
Further, if you are comparing prices, there is a reason why it’s more expensive to purchase genuine handmade work vs assembled, textured, stamped work. It takes a good deal more time and skill to saw, texture, solder, to create a piece of jewelry than it does to assemble parts

3/
It’s hand assembled. I have no problem w/makers assembling and creating jewelry. There are some good makers out there creating some fun stuff. They are successful and creative and fun. However, I do have an issue w/ the “handmade” label. I find that deceptive and unethical.

2/
enamel, granulate, reticulate myself. There are other makers out there creating jewelry who do not do this. They do not saw, form, solder, create every component. Rather, they purchase ready made components…hammer, texture, perhaps, assemble, and call their work “handmade.” It’s not.