Where to Buy Handmade Jewelry in Canada and Beyond

Finding Authentic Pieces That Last

In a world where mass production dominates, handmade jewelry stands out as something deeply personal. It carries the imprint of the artisan’s hands, a story of tradition, and often, a cultural heritage that no machine can replicate. For many people, the challenge isn’t deciding whether to buy handmade jewelry, but where to find authentic, high-quality pieces that reflect artistry and soul.

As someone with strong roots in Mexico and a lifelong appreciation for craftsmanship, I know firsthand how hard it can be to navigate the jewelry world, especially online. That’s why I want to share what “handmade” really means, how to spot authentic artisan jewelry, and where you can find beautiful, lasting pieces in Canada and abroad.

What Does “Handmade Jewelry” Really Mean?

The word handmade may sound simple, but in reality, it can mean a lot of different things. Not every piece labeled handmade carries the same value — some are casual, playful creations, while others are the result of years of skill, patience, and centuries-old traditions.

At one end, you’ll find hobby-style creations: charming and fun, but often made with inexpensive materials and not designed for long-term wear.
In the middle, there’s semi-handmade jewelry: pieces partly crafted by hand, but heavily reliant on molds, machines, or mass production techniques.
And finally, there’s true artisan-crafted jewelry — designed, shaped, and finished by skilled hands, often drawing from generations of tradition.

This last category is where real value lies. Artisan jewelry isn’t just an accessory; it’s a wearable piece of culture, rooted in skill and passion.

The Challenges of Buying Handmade Jewelry Online

The internet is full of jewelry shops, but not all are equal. One of the biggest challenges is that online marketplaces blur the lines between genuine craftsmanship and mass-produced imitations.

Why Marketplaces Can Be Tricky

Sites like Amazon, Temu, or AliExpress often label jewelry as “handmade,” even when it’s produced in factories. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy pieces from these sites; they can be fun, trendy, and especially affordable. The key is not to confuse them with authentic artisan jewelry. Think of it like Mexican food: many people believe that Tex-Mex chain restaurants serve traditional Mexican dishes. As someone from Mexico, I can tell you that shell tacos and burritos loaded with rice and cheddar cheese are tasty in their own way, but they are not authentic Mexican cuisine. Similarly, factory-made jewelry can be enjoyable, but it doesn’t carry the same heritage, care, or craftsmanship as a piece made by a skilled artisan.

Etsy and Other Platforms

Etsy is widely known for handmade and unique items, and it can be a wonderful place to discover jewelry that reflects creativity and personal style. While most sellers are genuine artisans, some pieces may be partially outsourced or produced in larger quantities.

That’s perfectly fine, Etsy offers a mix of options for different tastes and budgets, but if you’re looking for truly authentic artisan jewelry, it helps to dig a little deeper:

Check reviews carefully to see what other buyers experienced.
Look for sellers who share details about materials and their process.
Pay attention to photos: true handmade jewelry often has subtle variations, while mass-produced pieces may look identical.

With a bit of guidance, Etsy can be a great starting point to explore beautiful, creative jewelry while learning how to distinguish artisan craftsmanship.

Where to Find High-Quality Handmade Jewelry in Canada

Fortunately, Canada has a vibrant artisan scene if you know where to look. Among these talented makers are Indigenous artisans, who create stunning jewelry and handcrafted items inspired by their rich cultural heritage. From intricately beaded pieces to silverwork and natural materials, their creations tell stories of tradition, identity, and connection to the land.

I truly encourage people to seek out these local artisans and support their art and livelihoods. Every purchase helps preserve their traditions and ensures that these skills continue to thrive for future generations.

In my case, being from Mexico, this philosophy has always guided me. That’s why I support and champion the local artisans from Taxco, Mexico — skilled silversmiths whose work first captured my attention during childhood visits. My deep respect for all artisanal work drives me to help these artisans continue their craft and share their incredible talent with the world. I also want Canada to know that these incredible artisans exist and to give Canadian people the opportunity to access this beautiful jewelry without having to travel all the way to Taxco.

Local Artisan Markets and Boutiques

Craft fairs, farmers’ markets, and artisan pop-ups are great places to discover unique jewelry. The advantage of buying in person is that you can feel the weight of silver, examine craftsmanship up close, and talk directly to the maker.

Specialty Online Stores

If you can’t attend markets, curated online stores are your best bet. Unlike big marketplaces, these shops focus on quality, authenticity, and direct relationships with artisans.

This is exactly why I founded Nueve Sterling. My goal is to connect Canadian buyers with authentic Mexican silver jewelry, pieces that are not only beautiful but also carry a story of cultural heritage and artisanal mastery. Each piece is handcrafted in Taxco, Mexico, by skilled artisans I personally trust. By curating this collection, I ensure you’re not just buying jewelry, but supporting a living tradition.

How to Recognize Authentic Artisan Silver Jewelry

If you truly value owning authentic handmade silver jewelry, here are a few tips that can help you spot the real thing:

Hallmarks and Stamps

- Authentic sterling silver usually carries a .925 mark, indicating 92.5% pure silver.
- Some artisan jewelry, especially higher-end pieces, may be marked .950, meaning it’s 95% pure silver.
- Mexican silver often also includes stamps such as “MEXICO,” “MEX,” the artisan’s initials, or their personal stamp.
These marks help you verify the authenticity and quality of the silver, giving you confidence that the piece you’re buying is genuinely handmade and crafted with care.

Craftsmanship Details

True handmade pieces have subtle variations — no two are exactly alike.
Look for finishing details: smooth edges, clean soldering, and solid weight.
Be cautious of jewelry that looks too perfect or lightweight for its size — these are signs of mass production or plating.

A Real Example
Take the two bracelets in the photo, for example. Both are handmade, yet they tell very different stories Handmade bracelets

The bracelet on the left is playful and charming: warm-toned, with irregular tiger eye pieces, small silver accents, crystals, and finished with a silver cat charm. It’s lighthearted, creative, and perfect for everyday wear. Pieces like this carry a personal touch, but they’re more casual and less durable than masterfully crafted jewelry.
The second bracelet is a sterling silver cuff with natural peridot inlay, each stone carefully set by hand. A discreet hinge allows it to open smoothly, maintaining the bracelet’s clean, elegant lines. Every twist of the silver and every detail in its intricate patterns reflects the hand of a master silversmith from Taxco, Mexico. This piece carries cultural heritage, precision, and lasting quality; jewelry that can be treasured for a lifetime.

Paying for this kind of mastery is more than just buying a beautiful piece. It helps artisans continue their craft and, most importantly, ensures that the knowledge and skills are passed on to future generations. Right now, fewer young people are drawn to the painstaking work required to become a silversmith, and without recognition of their unique talent and fair compensation, this trade risks fading. Every purchase of a masterfully crafted piece is a vote of confidence in the artistry, dedication, and legacy of the silversmiths — supporting both their livelihood and the continuation of a centuries-old tradition.

Different Quality for Every Taste and Budget

Even in Taxco, not all silver jewelry is the same. Walking through the workshops and markets, you quickly notice the range: some pieces are simple, understated, and perfect for daily wear, while others are intricate, bold, and designed to turn heads.

Imagine picking up a delicate silver bracelet, feeling its lightness and playful design — a piece that adds charm to your everyday outfit. Now contrast it with a sterling silver cuff inlaid with a sparkling gemstone, every curve and engraving reflecting years of skill passed down through generations. Both are handmade, yet they speak to different moments, styles, and intentions.

If you want to explore this range for yourself, you can find your piece by price 👈🏼 Whether it’s a delicate treasure for everyday wear or a bold statement piece, each creation reflects the care, skill, and story of the artisan who made it.

Every item, no matter the price, reflects the care and dedication of Taxco’s master silversmiths — from the smallest detail to the overall artistry, every piece carries the soul of its maker.

While both are beautiful, they showcase different levels of artistry. On the left, a bracelet with a mesmerizing cat's eye stone. On the right, a bold cuff-bracelet featuring a rich Sonora turquoise elevated by intricate silver craftsmanship. Neither piece is right or wrong; they simply reflect different tastes and budgets.

Why Choose Silver Jewelry from Mexico?

Mexico has been the world’s top producer of silver for many years, and its tradition of silversmithing goes back centuries. Among all the regions, Taxco is the heart of Mexican silver artistry.

What makes Taxco unique is its mix of time-honored techniques and creativity. Artisans there combine traditional techniques with bold, innovative designs, creating jewelry that feels timeless yet distinctive.

Read: What is Taxco silver jewelry? 👈🏼

For me, Taxco isn’t just a name on a map. I grew up vacationing there with my family, just a couple of hours away from my home in Mexico City. Those visits left a lasting impression: the charm of the town, the craft of the silversmiths, and the pride they put into every piece. That early connection became the seed of what is now Nueve Sterling.

Balancing Price and Value

One of the biggest misconceptions about handmade jewelry is that it’s “expensive.” The truth is, artisan jewelry is often fairly priced for what it represents.

Here’s what you get when you choose artisan over mass production:

Durability: Sterling silver lasts generations when cared for properly.
Ethical sourcing: You’re supporting artisans, not factories.
Cultural meaning: Every piece carries a story and identity.
Heirloom value: Masterfully crafted jewelry can be passed down to your loved ones, becoming a treasured keepsake that carries your memory and significance through generations.

Choosing artisan jewelry is an investment not only in beauty and quality but also in lasting memories and meaningful connections.

When you understand the work, skill, and heritage behind each piece, the price becomes a reflection of true value: supporting artisans and helping the craft survive and thrive for future generations.

Tips for Shopping Handmade Silver Jewelry Abroad

If you’re traveling and want to buy silver jewelry directly from artisans, here are a few tips:

Look for hallmarks before buying.
Avoid shops that feel like tourist traps with pushy sales tactics.
Ask the seller about the workshop or artisan behind the piece.
Buy from established shops or certified artisans to ensure authenticity.

Many people visit Mexico for vacation and are naturally drawn to its vibrant markets and artisan communities. It’s a wonderful way to experience local artistry firsthand, but it’s important to be aware of the types of pieces you’re buying. Some ‘silver’ jewelry sold to tourists isn’t crafted by skilled artisans, or it might not even be real silver but a cheap plated alloy. By staying vigilant, you can make purchases that are truly meaningful — supporting local craftspeople directly while bringing home authentic, lasting keepsakes.

Read about Mexican silver being real or not 👈🏼

Why I Curated Nueve Sterling’s Collection

My passion for handmade jewelry goes beyond aesthetics. It’s about honoring a craft, supporting artisans, and bringing culturally significant pieces to people who appreciate authenticity.

Read why I decided to start supporting Taxco artisans 👈🏼

At Nueve Sterling, I’ve carefully curated a collection of authentic Taxco silver jewelry. I work only with certified workshops to guarantee quality alloys, prevent skin irritation, and ensure each piece meets high standards. These aren’t just accessories — they’re wearable art, rooted in tradition and crafted with pride.

Final Thoughts — Supporting Artisans, Wearing Stories

Handmade jewelry is more than decoration. It’s an expression of individuality, a celebration of culture, and a way to support skilled artisans who keep traditions alive. Every time you choose authentic artisan jewelry, you’re not only investing in beauty but also in people and heritage.

If you’re searching for authentic handmade jewelry in Canada, I invite you to explore Nueve Sterling’s collection 👈🏼. From artisan silver earrings to unique Taxco necklaces, each piece tells a story — one that blends tradition, artistry, and timeless style.

Back to blog