There are many changes in the economy; the jewelry market is changing, too. Five years ago gold was around $240 per ounce. Silver was $6-10 per ounce. Now gold is between $900 and $1000 an ounce, and silver is around $20. That's quite an increase! In an industry that is largely based on gold and silver, it seems the jewelry industry would be hurt by the price increase in gold and silver. Most jewelers are not taking as much profit on the gold as in the past, in order to keep the jewelry affordable. For small businesses with low overhead like Schwirian Jewelry, reasonable prices can be offered regardless of gold and silver rates.
Gold has always been desirable. Even now the market price is not affecting sales of wedding rings and other jewelry people need. For luxury jewelry items, though, the jewelry industry is experiencing a hit. Shoppers are less impulsive with the downturn in the economy.
Schwirian Jewelry continues to have faithful customers call for one-of-a-kind pieces. "I stay very busy with one of a kind custom orders. I am still making many pieces in gold, but the average earring sale is in silver. Silver is beautiful in itself and more affordable than gold at this time," states Edith Schwirian, owner of Schwirian Jewelry. Edith's earrings are hand-forged so they are not as heavy as cast pieces. She can make jewelry look bigger without the weight, which means you'll wow your friends, without hurting your wallet.
Gold prices are giving other metals a chance to shine. Many people are buying stainless steel and titanium wedding bands, instead of gold. Silver has always been an inexpensive choice, but since it is softer than gold it is not efficient for wedding ring sets with diamonds. Some are holding fast to gold, as there is no equal to the beauty and durability of gold. To the money savvy bride and groom, gold is also viewed as a great investment.
For jewelry shoppers watching their wallets, always buy quality jewelry. Goldsmiths and silversmiths are becoming more and more rare. More jewelry is being made overseas in China and India. Mass production is popular because it seems to save money, but at the cost of quality and originality. Purchase something that will last for a lifetime and can be passed on in your family. The initial investment may be steep, but in the end "you will have a beautiful piece of jewelry that will stand the test of time," says Edith.
Edith's jewelry is unique. Her earrings are made individually from a single piece of gold or silver. She chooses the finest gemstones for each design. This process takes much time and work, but the jewelry that graces your body is worth it!
Edith Schwirian Jewelry
530.257.7872
Edith Schwirian began her 
jewelry career in l984 where she apprenticed for a nationally known master metalsmith for six years. She learned the art of forging and fabricating gold and silver jewelry. Edith studied at the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts in San Francisco. Edith has been teaching jewelry design and making at Lassen College on and off since l990. Her designs were sold in various jewelry stores and galleries around the country. Edith had a successfull retail jewelry store in California for ten years and then went back to what she loves and that is creating one of a kind pieces for her customers.
Each piece of jewelry is carefully crafted using gold, silver, or platinum with only the finest gemstones. She speciallizes in one of a kind jewelry that is classic in design and very wearable.
Edith lives with her long time husband, George, in beautiful Northern California.