Onyx Sterling

Onyx Sterling
Onyx Sterling Onyx Sterling

15 year old jewelry business-drowning!?

I have designed semi prescious jewelry over 15 yrs. Have had lines in small boutiques, have won awards. All I hear is how gorgeous, how talented, OMG, how long did it take to do that? I had a web site 2 years, sold 3 items, was on Etsy 1 year sold 5 items, been on Picturetrail. 3 years just so there is a place where all my work can bee seen, and have sold nothing off there ever. Tried e-bay several times, never 1 sale. Go to juried shows only usually do (depending on area) between $150-$600. I use only grade A stones-Turquoise, Onyx, Malachite, Pearls,sterling /Bali silver.Every piece is one of a kind. Have done commissioned work-so why can't I sell? I realize competition is fierce, with all the China imports it is killing the artists, but this is rediculous! I am disabled & this is my main source of income, I tried to get a disabled womans grant, but that cost $ to have a small store at flea market. take a peak at site, maybe u can give me some help Anna

I used to make jewellery years ago just for a hobby but know the field is very difficult. Did you take any contact info from people who have bought from you in the past? In the future you could ask if they want to sign up for a "First to know" sort of list and be offered items first or special deals. Are you able to get out to the stores with some of your jewellery to show them and who might order from you? I know in my city that the local art galleries and museums take hand-made items in their shops. No idea if they sell though. Do you know lots of people? Maybe you could have a little party at your house and showcase your work? Do you update your website every week? Do you have new product every month? Sometimes you can just move items around on the page or change the descriptions. Are they photos excellent? Do you have a local business Chamber of Commerce? You could go to meetings and hand out some brochures or show your items. Good for networking, plenty of female business owners now. Do you have those all-girl pamper party events in your city? I went to one and they were excellent for networking, I got many business cards. Best wishes!