While 2020 has seen numerous businesses and industries suffer as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, the jewellery sector has managed to remain relatively prosperous.
This is certainly true in the US, where a hike in online sales and rising per capita disposable income levels are also projected to grow at an exponential rate between 2021 and 2023.
This is great news for both manufacturers and dealers alike, but what tools do you need to create and sustain a successful jewellery business in the US? Here are some ideas to keep in mind:
#1. Wire Wrapping Tools Such as Pliers
Wire wrapping is a key component of jewellery making and maintenance, while it’s ideal for creating prototypes due to the relative ease of the process.
So, jewellers tend to use a diverse range of wire wrapping tools, including pliers (which are arguably the single most important tool in this regard).
In truth, there are various types of pliers that can be used for the purpose of wire wrapping, with each style producing variable curves, shapes and effects.
Every jeweller will have their own preference in this regard, although we’d recommend round and flat-nose pliers when forging loops and working with sheet metal respectively.
#2. Cutters
Cutters will also play a critical role in any self-respecting jeweller’s kit, while they also help by enabling individuals to cut the wire flush as and when required.
Cutters are also handy for cutting down and adjusting the wire size to suit exact dimensions, creating a scenario where you can execute a precise and high quality finish.
Once again, cutters can be sourced in a broad range of styles and sizes to suit various types of project, while equipment may also be purchased to use on sheet metal and pieces of solder.
#3. Hammers
While hammers aren’t officially categorised as wire wrapping tools, they can be used to assist in this endeavour and remain similarly important from the perspective of jewellers.
When working with jewellery hammers, you can effectively shape the wire and flatten it, while work-hardening it so that it can survive the various stresses of processing and manufacturing.
The ‘jewellers hammer’ is perhaps the best option, as it’s incredibly versatile and can be deployed across a broad range of jewellery manufacturing projects.
This type of hammer is also ideal for work-hardening the wire to make it more durable, which is crucial given the other processes involved with manufacturing jewellery.
#4. A Bench Vice
On a final note, you should recognise that working with precious metal requires both strength, technique and considerable grip.
So, you’ll ideally need a stable bench vice when working with wire and manufacturing jewellery, with this enabling you to work safely while optimising the accuracy and standard of your workmanship.
Most importantly, this minimises the risk of the metal being scratched, which is crucial when producing high-quality pieces of jewellery.
