Why Gold Jewelry Prices Are Rising (and What I’m Doing About It)

And the creative ways I’m working in the studio to keep prices fair.

You may have seen in the news that precious metals, gold in particular, keep hitting record highs, month after month. (If you haven’t, here’s a quick link.)

I’ve been making jewelry for a long time, and while metal prices have always gone up incrementally, this is the first time I’ve truly felt concerned. I care deeply about keeping my work accessible, so I want to be honest and transparent about how these changes are affecting the jewelry world, and what I’m doing to keep my prices fair without compromising quality.

So what’s driving this surge? I’m no economist, but here’s a Google summary:

“The gold market is experiencing record highs due to investor concerns over global uncertainty, including resurfacing U.S.-China trade tensions and a prolonged U.S. government shutdown.”

Gold and silver are both considered “safe haven assets” when the dollar is weak and the global economy feels unstable, because it holds intrinsic value and isn’t tied to any one government or currency.

This upward trend began after 9/11 and has only accelerated through the COVID pandemic, inflation, shifting trade policies, government instability, and general global unrest.

I’ll admit, a few times this year I’ve opened metal orders and been absolutely shocked by the totals. Prices have always fluctuated, but this is the first time that the rate of change has made me write a post like this.

It is worrisome, but the good news is that there are some things I can do in the studio to ease the blow a bit.

What I’m Doing

I always hate to raise prices on you all, especially at a time when so many other costs are rising as well, so I’m getting creative. Problem-solving has always been one of the most rewarding parts of running a business, and this is the problem of the moment. Change is normal, and adaptability is essential.

I also promise not to compromise on quality or ethics. I’ll continue using the same high-quality, ethically sourced materials that will stand the test of time.

That said, I have no choice but to raise prices a bit on some heavier pieces with substantial gold content, like cuff bracelets or chunky necklaces.

Here’s what I can do:

• Reduce markups: I’ve adjusted the long-standing industry pricing formula I’ve used for 20 years to include a smaller materials markup. That means I’m absorbing some of the cost increase myself rather than passing all of it on to you, my customers.
• Work Smaller: Since gold is priced by weight, daintier work costs less to make, and then of course to buy. I’ve been lucky in my career that I tend to be drawn to making lightweight, delicate work. That has been by choice, not necessity. But maybe now it’s both, for a while at least.
• Recycle more aggressively: I recently sent a large box of scrap metal, including a surprisingly heavy bag of metal dust, back to my supplier for refining and recycling. This provides credit toward future purchases and also helps the environment. Win-win.
• Use more silver where it makes sense: For mixed-metal designs (my most popular category), I’ll start using silver instead of gold for clasps, ear wires, and jump rings. It keeps costs down by a few dollars per piece without changing the look. (If you prefer gold-fill findings I’m always happy to accommodate.)
• Explore more gemstone and beadwork designs: Most stones currently have a 25% tariff (still better than 50%!) and people seem to love them. I’m heading to a gem show next week to explore new possibilities.

This isn’t a complete list, and it certainly won’t be the end of my creative problem-solving. I’ll continue finding ways to manage costs without sacrificing quality, beauty, wearability, or any of the other features of my work you have come to rely on.

A Final Note

Most importantly, I want you to know that I am mindful of your wallet. I’m not going to capriciously raise prices on you, and I promise to continue to be conscious and conscientious with the price of my work. It’s really important to me that you are able to treat yourselves and your loved ones to something that will bring you joy without feeling guilty or stressed about the cost.

Hopefully this transparency helps shed some light on current prices, and the headwinds jewelers are currently facing. As always, I’m grateful for your continued support. 

Thanks for being here.