Daily Tip July 30: Quality Stamps and Tags

Daily Wire Jewelry Making Tip
July 30, 2010

Question:

Hi Dale, is there a stamp available with which to stamp a tag to include in a jewelry piece, which states its quality, such as 14kt Gold Fill? I don’t do shows, I sell in shops and online. I haven’t seen such a stamp yet, this is the problem, or I would have bought one. So how does one use a stamped tag? Do you know where a stamp like this would be available? Many thanks for your helpful answers.

-Patricia in Melbourne, Australia

Answer:

Well, there are a few options. Whenever I do a show, I usually have some of my wire with me. If a customer is curious, I show it to them and explain just what the metal is. You could also print a type of materials guarantee on the reverse of your business card, stating that the materials you use are genuine. I know other wire artists who attach small metal tags, with the metal type and/or karat stamped on them, to their work.

As far as actual jewelry tags, Wire-Sculpture stocks Sterling Silver Quality tags, which work great for your sterling silver jewelry. However, none of our suppliers carry 14kt gf tags, because they are so small to manufacture around the fill metal.

You can have your own stamps made online. The best place I know to go for jewelry stamps is Microstamp Online. These folks can make about any size, metal and wording you might need. They are very friendly and helpful!

Answer contributed by Dale “Cougar” Armstrong

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4 Comments

1. 

   WireWrangler

   July 30, 2010 at 9:34 am

   Hi Dale and Patricia,
   I, too, have not seen a quality stamp for gold filled.
   I am adding my whole-hearted endorsement for Microstamp. No, I am not affiliated, however, I have used their excellent services for not only my quality stamps but for a Makers Mark which I use as a personal brand on my creations.
   I see, Patricia, that you are in Australia, so I do not know how difficult US purchases are for you, however, I can attest that the folks at Microstamp are easy to work with and very accomodating.
   Please be aware that whenever one goes the custom route, the cost goes up.
   ww
2. 

   nancy

   August 2, 2010 at 12:14 pm

   Hi, I have a question about these tags. How are they attached? I have seen them attached as a ‘dangle’ on chains or necklaces, up at the clasp. But how would you attach one on a wiresculpted pendant? It seems that a flapping metal tag on the back would be problematic, especially for a small pendant. Any suggestions from those who use these?
   thanks.
   • 

     dalecgr

     August 2, 2010 at 10:23 pm

     Nancy, for this very reason I personally do not use tags – but I have often though of getting a stamp with my initials on it, as everything has a wrap on it somewhere.
3. 

   Faye

   August 3, 2010 at 12:40 am

   I agree with WireWrangle that whenever one goes the custom route, the cost goes up.