JensGemz blog posts

Handmade Jewellery Gifts for Christmas 2025 | JensGemz

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:20:33 GMT

Thoughtful Handmade Jewellery Gifts for Christmas 2025

There’s something truly special about giving a gift that’s been made by hand. In a world of mass-produced presents, handmade jewellery carries meaning, care and individuality — every piece tells a story. This Christmas, if you’re looking for a unique way to show someone you care, our handcrafted jewellery collections might just be the perfect place to start.

At JensGemz , every necklace, bracelet and pair of earrings is lovingly created by Jen in our Nottinghamshire studio. Whether she’s weaving intricate chainmaille patterns link by link or pairing natural freshwater pearls with elegant silver tones, each piece is designed to be worn and treasured for years to come.

✨ For Those Who Love Timeless Elegance: Freshwater Pearls

Pearls have long been a symbol of purity and sophistication — and no two are ever alike. Our Freshwater Pearl Jewellery Collection celebrates that natural variation, with every pearl showcasing its own soft shape, gentle sheen and individual charm.

If you’re shopping for someone who loves classic style, a pearl necklace or bracelet makes a perfect keepsake. Each one is made using genuine freshwater pearls , not imitation or glass, which means your gift will have a unique beauty that only nature can create.

Many of our designs combine pearls with subtle accents of silver or soft pastel gemstones such as agate or rose quartz, adding a modern twist to a timeless favourite. They’re ideal for Christmas morning sparkle — elegant enough for evening wear yet simple enough for everyday use.

(Please note: all our pearl jewellery is made using genuine freshwater pearls, which naturally vary in shape, size and surface texture. This makes every piece one of a kind.)

�� For Those Who Love Something Different: Chainmaille Jewellery

If you’re shopping for someone who prefers a bolder or more alternative look, our Chainmaille Jewellery Collection offers something completely different.

Each design is handcrafted using stainless steel rings — strong, hypoallergenic and beautifully tactile. Jen uses a traditional four-in-one maille pattern, the same technique once used in medieval armour, to create striking bracelets, necklaces and earrings that feel both modern and timeless.

Because every ring is linked by hand, chainmaille jewellery carries a sense of craftsmanship that’s hard to find elsewhere. The result is jewellery with character: elegant enough for everyday wear, yet distinctive enough to turn heads.

We also offer a choice of earring fittings — Shepherd’s Hooks, Lever-Backs or Studs — so you can tailor each piece to the recipient’s preference. Every item is made to order , so please allow 5–7 working days for dispatch.

�� Gifts with Meaning

Whether it’s the glow of a pearl or the shimmer of steel links catching the light, handmade jewellery isn’t just beautiful — it’s personal. You’re not simply giving a necklace or bracelet; you’re giving the time, skill and creativity that went into making it.

That’s what makes handmade pieces so thoughtful at Christmas. Each one carries a little story — and when it’s chosen especially for someone you love, that story becomes part of theirs too.

If you’re not sure where to begin, our Anniversary Gift Guide offers inspiration by occasion and material, while our Gift Vouchers make a lovely choice when you’d rather let them decide for themselves.

�� Support Local, Shop Handmade

When you buy from a small business like ours, you’re supporting a real person behind the scenes — not a faceless factory. Every purchase helps keep traditional skills alive, supports local craft fairs, and allows us to continue creating unique designs from our Nottinghamshire studio.

So this Christmas, skip the high-street rush and choose something with heart. Whether it’s a shimmering strand of pearls or a bold chainmaille bracelet, you’ll find something beautifully different in the JensGemz collection.

Explore our full range at jensgemz.uk and make this Christmas truly special with a gift that’s handmade, heartfelt and made to last.

Bringing Your Ideas to Life: Custom Orders and Alterations

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 09:34:05 GMT

One of the things Jen loves most about making jewellery is working with our customers to create something truly personal. Over the past few weeks, we’ve had quite a few special requests — and it’s been wonderful to see those pieces come to life.

At our fair on Sunday, Jen changed the clasp on a bracelet for a lovely lady who found lobster clasps tricky, replacing it with a simple toggle so she can wear her favourite piece with ease. She also resized a bracelet as a birthday gift by carefully removing part of the pattern to make it just the right fit.

In our Leek stockist last week, a customer asked Jen to add extra patterning to a bracelet — a small change that gave it a completely new character. Another visitor at the fair admired one of Jen’s chainmaille bracelets but wanted it in blue aluminium rather than red. That piece has now been made to order and is already on its way to her.

We’re also lucky to have regular customers who really embrace the idea of creating something unique. One gentleman often browses our website, chooses a couple of designs, and asks Jen to combine elements of them in his chosen colour scheme. She usually makes two or three variations for him to select from — and the other versions often find a home quickly. In fact, one of these bespoke creations sold almost immediately on Sunday!

Whether it’s a simple clasp change, a tweak to the size, or a completely new combination of colours and patterns, Jen is always happy to work with you to make a piece of jewellery that’s perfect for you or your loved one.

If you’ve spotted something you like but would prefer it in a different size, style, or colour, just get in touch — we’d love to help bring your ideas to life.

How to Choose the Perfect Necklace Length

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 10:14:48 GMT

When you’re buying a necklace online, it can be tricky to picture how the length will look once it’s on. Too short and it may feel tight, too long and it might not sit right with your outfit. Here’s

a simple guide to help you find the perfect length every time.

Standard Necklace Lengths (in inches):

16" – Choker: sits closely around the base of the neck.
18" – Princess: rests at the collarbone, one of the most popular everyday lengths.
20" – Matinee: falls just below the collarbone, good for higher necklines.
24" – Opera: drapes mid-chest, ideal for layering or statement pendants.
30"+ – Rope: long and versatile, can be wrapped or worn doubled up.

Tips for Choosing the Right Length:

Neck size matters – measure your neck with a soft tape measure to check how different lengths will sit.
Face shape – longer necklaces create vertical lines that can elongate the face, while shorter styles highlight the neckline.
Outfit choice – chokers and shorter chains pair well with scoop necks, while longer necklaces suit high necklines.
Personal style – do you prefer a delicate everyday look or bold statement pieces? Length can transform the same design.

Extra Help for Gift Buyers:

If you’re buying as a gift and aren’t sure which length to choose, 18" is a safe, versatile option that flatters most people.

JensGemz Necklace Options:

At JensGemz, many of our necklaces can be made to order in your chosen length — whether you prefer a shorter, closer fit or a long statement chain. Take a look at our Necklace Collection to explore the styles available.

Finding the right necklace length doesn’t have to be complicated — once you know what suits you best, shopping (and gifting!) becomes so much easier.

How to Choose the Perfect Anniversary Jewellery by Year

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 18:00:04 GMT

Celebrating a wedding anniversary is more than marking another year together — it’s about reflecting on the journey you’ve shared and the milestones you’ve achieved.
Traditionally, certain materials are associated with specific anniversaries, each symbolising qualities that make a marriage strong.

At Jensgemz, we specialise in handmade anniversary jewellery for milestone years including the 10th (aluminium) , 11th (steel) , 15th (glass) , and 30th (pearl) anniversaries. Every piece is crafted in Nottingham with care, meaning you can give a gift that’s both personal and meaningful.

Whether you’re shopping for your partner or looking for a thoughtful gift for a couple you know, this guide will help you choose the perfect anniversary jewellery by year.

10th Anniversary Jewellery – Aluminium

Aluminium is the traditional gift for a 10th wedding anniversary.
Lightweight yet strong, it symbolises the flexibility and resilience needed in a decade of marriage.

At Jensgemz, aluminium takes centre stage in many of our chainmaille jewellery designs, especially when combined with stainless steel for contrast.
Our anodised aluminium rings come in a rainbow of colours, making it easy to create something that reflects your loved one’s style.

�� Browse Aluminium Anniversary Gifts →

11th Anniversary Jewellery – Steel

Steel represents durability and unbreakable bonds — a fitting symbol for the 11th year of marriage.
Our stainless steel chainmaille jewellery is not only beautiful but also built to last a lifetime.

Each piece is handcrafted in Nottingham using high-quality stainless steel rings, meaning it won’t tarnish or lose its shine.
From elegant bracelets to statement necklaces, steel jewellery is a practical yet romantic choice for this milestone.

�� Explore Our Chainmaille Jewellery →

15th Anniversary Jewellery – Glass

The 15th anniversary is traditionally marked with glass — representing clarity, transparency, and beauty.
While less common in jewellery, glass can create stunning statement pieces through beads or focal accents.

Some of our designs feature glass beads alongside chainmaille, offering a modern twist on the tradition while keeping the sentiment alive.

�� See All Glass Jewellery Options →

30th Anniversary Jewellery – Pearl

Pearls are the classic choice for a 30th wedding anniversary.
Known for their natural beauty and timeless elegance, they symbolise wisdom and the beauty that comes with years together.

We use genuine freshwater pearls in our necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, with each pearl slightly unique in shape and lustre.
Whether you choose a simple strand or a pearl-and-chainmaille combination, you’ll be giving a gift that will be treasured for years to come.

�� Shop Pearl Jewellery →

Why Handmade Jewellery Makes the Perfect Anniversary Gift

Mass-produced jewellery can be lovely, but handmade pieces carry an extra layer of meaning.
When you choose a handcrafted anniversary gift, you’re choosing something made with skill, care, and attention to detail — just like your relationship.

We can also create bespoke designs to suit your exact vision, from matching sets to pieces incorporating meaningful colours or stones.

Tips for Choosing the Right Piece

Match the style to the recipient’s everyday look — classic, modern, or bold.
Think about sentimental touches, such as colours with personal meaning.
Choose comfortable, wearable designs so they can enjoy the piece often.

Mark Your Next Milestone with Jensgemz

Whether it’s your 10th, 11th, 15th, or 30th anniversary, our handmade jewellery offers a lasting way to celebrate your love.
Browse our Anniversary Gift Guide or get in touch for a bespoke commission and let’s create something truly special.

Custom Jewellery Orders — Your Ideas, Our Craftsmanship

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 15:03:52 GMT

At JensGemz, we believe jewellery should be as unique as the person wearing it. That’s why we love working on custom orders — whether you want to personalise a piece you’ve seen in our shop or create something completely new.

What Can Be Customised?

We’re always happy to adapt our designs or work with your ideas. Popular requests include:

Custom lengths (especially for bracelets and necklaces)
Alternative colours (like anodised aluminium ring colours or different pearl shades)
Matching sets (bracelet, earrings, and necklace)
One-off designs for gifts, weddings, or special occasions

Past Custom Projects

Here are just a few examples of custom work we’ve done recently:

A matching necklace, bracelet and earrings for a 30th wedding anniversary. The pearls were specifically selected to match the bride's original wedding dress and birthstones for the couple and their 3 children were added to create a truly unique piece.
Freshwater pearl necklaces for a bride and her bridesmaids.
A chainmaille choker necklace in custom colours

How to Order a Custom Piece

If you’ve got an idea in mind, just get in touch! You can:

Message us through our Contact page
Email us at jensgemz.uk
Chat with us at one of our craft fairs (see our Facebook page for upcoming fairs)

We’ll talk through your ideas, suggest options, and confirm pricing before we begin. All custom pieces are handcrafted by Jen in our Nottinghamshire studio using high-quality materials.

Why Choose JensGemz?

Handmade with care and attention to detail
Flexible design process to suit your needs
No mass production — just artisan skill and creativity
A friendly, personal approach to customer service

Ready to Start?

If you’ve been thinking about a special piece of jewellery, we’d love to help bring it to life. Let’s create something just for you.

Which Earring Back is Right for You? A Guide to Earring Fittings

Sat, 02 Aug 2025 15:58:01 GMT

When it comes to choosing the perfect pair of earrings, most people focus on the design, material, or colour. But one of the most important aspects of comfort and practicality is often overlooked: the earring fitting .

At JensGemz, all of our earrings are made to order and available with your choice of Shepherd's Hooks , Lever-Backs , or Studs . Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right option for your needs:

1. Shepherd's Hooks

Best for: Everyday wear, boho or elegant styles

These are the classic hook-style fittings that simply thread through your ear and hang freely. They're easy to insert and remove, and they're ideal if you like a lightweight, dangling style.

Pros:

Lightweight and comfortable
Simple and quick to wear
Ideal for drop or dangle earrings

Considerations:

Can slip out more easily than other types if you’re active (silicone stoppers help)

2. Lever-Backs

Best for: Security and all-day wear

Lever-backs feature a hinged closure that clicks into place, forming a secure loop. They're a great choice if you're always on the go or don’t want to worry about earrings falling out.

Pros:

Very secure
Comfortable for long wear
Classic look that suits both casual and formal styles

Considerations:

Slightly heavier than hooks
Can take a little more effort to fasten

3. Studs

Best for: Minimalist style and close-to-ear designs

Studs sit flush against the ear and are secured at the back with a butterfly or screw-on backing. They're ideal if you prefer a clean, subtle look or have multiple ear piercings.

Pros:

Discreet and classic
Won’t catch on clothing or hair
Great for work or everyday wear

Considerations:

Less suitable for long, hanging designs

How to Choose

Think about your lifestyle , hair length , activity level , and comfort preferences . For example:

Do you wear headphones or hats a lot? Studs might be your best bet.
Worried about losing earrings? Lever-backs offer peace of mind.
Love a dangly, elegant look? Shepherd's hooks are a timeless choice.

All JensGemz Earrings are Made to Order

Every pair of earrings from JensGemz is handmade and customisable. You can choose your preferred fitting on each listing. We also offer a 5–7 working day turnaround as each pair is crafted with care just for you.

Have a question or need help choosing? Get in touch with us here and we’ll be happy to advise.

Browse all earrings here .

What Makes a Piece of Jewellery ‘Handmade’?

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 11:02:46 GMT

In today’s world of fast fashion and mass production, the word “handmade” is often thrown around — but what does it really mean?

At JensGemz, every piece of jewellery is individually handcrafted by Jen, using high-quality materials and traditional techniques. We don’t use factory templates or automated machines. Instead, we focus on craftsmanship, care, and creativity — all from our small home studio in the UK.

More Than Just Assembling

Being handmade doesn’t just mean putting beads on a string. It means:

Selecting each component with care – From genuine freshwater pearls to strong yet stylish stainless steel rings and colourful aluminium rings, every material is chosen for both beauty and durability.
Time and skill – Our chainmaille pieces, for example, are made link by link using ancient weaves originally developed for armour. Each one takes time and precision — and no two are exactly alike.
Made to order – Many of our pieces are created just for you, with customisation options like colour scheme, clasp types or earring fittings. You're not picking something off a warehouse shelf — you're getting something made just for you.

Why It Matters

When you choose handmade, you’re not just buying a product — you’re supporting a real person’s time, energy, and artistry. You’re also getting a piece that has been checked, finished, and packed by the same hands that made it.

There’s a reason people say handmade jewellery has heart — because it truly does.

Discover the Difference

Whether you’re looking for an elegant pearl necklace, a bold chainmaille bracelet, or a unique gift for someone special, we hope you’ll notice the difference in a handmade piece.

Explore the collection at jensgemz.uk/shop and treat yourself to something with a little more meaning.

Meet the Maker – Jen’s Story

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 13:44:33 GMT

At JensGemz, every piece of jewellery is handmade with care by Jen – the creative heart of our business. What began as a personal hobby has grown into a passion for creating unique, meaningful pieces that bring joy to others.

Jen first discovered chainmaille many years ago, intrigued by its blend of strength and elegance. As she mastered the art of weaving each tiny ring into intricate patterns, her love of the craft only deepened. Today, her chainmaille jewellery ranges from bold statement pieces to delicate everyday wear, all crafted from high-quality stainless steel and anodised aluminium.

Her second love? Pearls. Real, freshwater pearls – chosen for their organic shapes, soft lustre, and timeless beauty. Whether paired with chainmaille or used in more classic styles, Jen’s pearl jewellery is always one-of-a-kind, just like the wearer.

Based in the UK, JensGemz is proud to be a small, independent business. We don’t mass-produce anything – every necklace, bracelet, and pair of earrings is made to order by Jen herself, with a focus on craftsmanship, detail, and originality.

Whether you’re buying a gift or treating yourself, we hope you’ll find something special in our collection. Jen is regularly at craft fairs and loves meeting fellow jewellery enthusiasts in person. Our pieces are also available at a variety of independent shops across the country, so you can find JensGemz jewellery near you.

Explore our collections online here:
Chainmaille Jewellery | Natural Pearl Jewellery

A Closer Look at Freshwater Pearls: Beauty from Nature

Sat, 05 Jul 2025 11:10:58 GMT

Pearls have captivated people for centuries — symbols of elegance, purity, and timeless beauty. But not all pearls are the same. At JensGemz, we work exclusively with genuine freshwater pearls, and every piece of our pearl jewellery is made with care, precision, and an appreciation for their natural charm.

�� Where Do Freshwater Pearls Come From?

Unlike saltwater pearls (which grow in oysters in the ocean), freshwater pearls are formed inside mussels that live in rivers, lakes, and ponds . Most of the world’s freshwater pearls today are farmed responsibly in China, where skilled pearl farmers have developed the techniques to grow beautiful, lustrous pearls in a range of shapes and colours.

Each mussel can produce multiple pearls at once — and because they’re formed naturally, no two are exactly alike.

�� Why We Choose Freshwater Pearls

At JensGemz, we only use genuine freshwater pearls in our jewellery. That means:

Every pearl is real — not plastic or glass
They’re naturally irregular , with unique textures and organic shapes
Their colour and sheen comes from layers of nacre , just like traditional pearls

This natural variation is what gives each piece of our jewellery its individual personality . When you wear it, you know no one else has one quite the same.

�� What About the Coloured Pearls?

We love working with a range of pearl colours — soft pinks, cool greys, shimmering purples, and more.
All of our coloured pearls are dyed , not painted. That’s an important difference:

Dyed pearls have colour that penetrates into the nacre
Painted pearls just have a coating that can wear off — we never use those

You still get all the natural shine of the pearl, just in a tone that suits your style.

�� Handmade Pearl Jewellery, Made to Order

Every piece of our pearl jewellery is handmade to order — whether you’re choosing dainty earrings, a classic bridal bracelet, or a meaningful anniversary gift.

We allow you to customise fittings (hooks, studs, or lever-backs for earrings), and we dispatch within 5–7 working days.

�� Explore the Collection

Discover your perfect piece of pearl jewellery here:
�� Natural Pearl Jewellery at JensGemz

Introduction to Chainmaille Jewellery: Crafting Timeless Elegance

PH824058 — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:12:03 GMT

Welcome to the world of chainmaille jewellery — an ancient art with a modern twist. At JensGemz, we specialise in handcrafted chainmaille pieces that blend history, craftsmanship, and style into unique accessories perfect for any occasion.

What Is Chainmaille?

Chainmaille (pronounced chain-mail) is a technique that dates back to medieval times when warriors wore armour made from interlinked metal rings for protection. Today, this intricate pattern of connecting tiny rings has been transformed into beautiful jewellery — from bracelets and necklaces to earrings — that’s both durable and eye-catching.

Our First Weave: The Byzantine

The Byzantine weave holds a special place at JensGemz — it was the first weave Jen mastered and remains a favourite. Known for its intricate, textured pattern, the Byzantine weave creates elegant and flexible pieces that are as stunning to wear as they are to make.

Adding Colour with Aluminium Rings

To bring a modern twist to this traditional technique, we incorporate anodised aluminium rings in various colours alongside stainless steel. This allows us to create striking contrasts and personalised designs that truly stand out.

Why Choose Chainmaille Jewellery?

Durability: Made from high-quality stainless steel, our chainmaille pieces resist tarnishing and wear, keeping their shine for years.
Unique Designs: Each piece is handmade with attention to detail, ensuring no two are exactly alike.
Versatility: Chainmaille jewellery suits casual looks and elegant outfits alike, making it perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.

Caring for Your Chainmaille Jewellery

To keep your jewellery looking its best:

Clean gently with mild soap and water.
Dry thoroughly to avoid moisture buildup.
Store in a dry place, preferably in a jewellery pouch.

We’re passionate about creating jewellery that tells a story and adds a touch of elegance to your style. Explore our full range of chainmaille jewellery today and discover the perfect piece for you or a loved one.

Ready to own a piece of history reinvented?
Visit our Chainmaille Collection to browse the latest designs.