Chain Link Jewelry Buyer's Guide

Jewelry to avoid
I did not make this

Your choices send a powerful message so know your seller and what you're buying!

Is the material eco-friendly?
Can you contact or meet the artist?
Do they support ethical practices (no conflict materials, sweatshops, illegal mining, etc.)?
Are they capable of doing respectable custom work?
Is their entire portfolio composed of exemplary pieces?

NOTE: This is designed to educate though these facts are difficult to accept for those who make low-quality items.

Here are some helpful hints:

Jewelry is about fashion and function. Anything detracting from them is unacceptable.
The "jewelry standard" is an unspoken rule that requires precious metals to be soldered or welded. Otherwise, it's a poorly made, overpriced novelty.
Nearly all "handmade" jewelry does not, in fact, meet the legal definition of handmade.
There is a big difference between fine jewelry and craft items. Jewelry is rare but expensive junk is everywhere.
Gaps, misaligned edges, jagged edges, and other faults do not appear on jewelry.
Saw-cut rings are mandatory for anything touching flesh or fabric.
Finished pieces should be smooth and effortlessly mingle with the shaggiest fabric.
Bad construction can be seen in the blink of an eye from a distance whereas extraordinary pieces remain flawless after a thorough inspection.
Price should indicate quality regardless of the other factors.
Experience is irrelevant since precision workmanship is either there or it's not.
Custom designs will only be as good as an artist's worst piece.
Legitimate artists openly, honestly, and fully answer all questions without getting angry.