The term "made in America" carries weight. It speaks of quality, of supporting local communities, of keeping craft traditions alive in our own backyard. As a jeweler who has built my business on thoughtful, intentional creation, I've long held the belief that keeping production within the US was an essential part of my brand's identity.
But recently, I've been challenged to examine this belief more deeply, sparked by both personal circumstances and a broader understanding of global craftsmanship.
A Physical Reality Check
Let me be vulnerable for a moment: I was recently diagnosed with carpal tunnel in both forearms. For those unfamiliar with the condition, imagine your arms falling asleep—not just occasionally, but every night, and often while you're working. It's not just uncomfortable; it's a wake-up call about the sustainability of my current production methods.
While I'm managing it with treatment, this diagnosis has forced me to confront some hard truths about scaling my business. There are certain specialized skills in jewelry making that lie outside my current capabilities, and now, with these physical limitations, I need to think carefully about how to maintain quality while protecting my health.
The Global Craftsmanship Question
This brings me to a broader conversation about where our pieces are made. The jewelry world is rich with tradition and expertise that spans continents. There are master artisans globally who have inherited generations of knowledge, working in ethically run studios that uphold the highest standards of both craftsmanship and worker welfare.
The question I've been grappling with is this: Does limiting ourselves to US-based production sometimes mean limiting access to this wealth of global expertise?
Breaking Down the Assumptions
When we say "made in America," what are we really valuing? If it's quality—there are exceptional artisans worldwide. If it's ethical production—there are studios globally that maintain impeccable standards. If it's supporting craftspeople—talented artisans everywhere deserve support for their expertise.
I'm beginning to understand that perhaps what matters most isn't where something is made, but how it's made, and by whom. The key factors I'm considering:
- The expertise and skill level of the artisans
- The ethical standards of the production facility
- The quality of the final piece
- The sustainability of the production methods
- Fair compensation for skilled work
A Path Forward
As I navigate this evolution in my business, I'm committed to maintaining complete transparency with you, my community. Any partnerships I consider—whether within the US or internationally—will be thoroughly vetted to ensure they align with our values of quality, ethics, and intentional creation.
This isn't about choosing profit over principles. It's about expanding our understanding of what ethical, quality production can look like in a global context. It's about acknowledging that expertise knows no borders, and that supporting skilled craftspeople can mean looking beyond our own backyard.
The Personal Reality
There's another layer to this discussion that feels important to share: sustainability isn't just about environmental impact or production methods—it's also about the sustainability of the maker's wellbeing. My experience with carpal tunnel has taught me that adapting and seeking help isn't a compromise; it's a necessity for long-term survival in this craft.
Looking Ahead
As I consider these changes, I'm curious about your thoughts. What matters most to you when purchasing handcrafted jewelry? Is location a crucial factor in your buying decisions, or do other considerations take precedence?
I believe that by having these open conversations, we can grow in a way that honors both tradition and innovation, that respects craftsmanship wherever it's found, and that ensures the long-term sustainability of creating beautiful, meaningful pieces.
Your voice matters in this evolution. Share your thoughts below—I'd love to hear your perspective on this complex intersection of craft, ethics, and global production.
Poll: What matters most to you when it comes to production?
- Must be made by US artisans only
- Can be made anywhere if ethically produced
- Production location doesn't matter to me
Stay Connected: Shop handcrafted pieces: sheenamarshalljewelry.com Follow the journey: @sheenamarshalljewelry
