Waterproof

As an online seller I have had more trouble with the concept of waterproof than anything else. My jewelry is not waterproofed and that seems to deter a lot of consumers. So I'm going to pose this question:

How many people will only buy jewelry that is waterproof?

If you answered yes:

Why? Is it because you perceive that it is of higher quality?

The concept that waterproof jewelry means high quality is a myth.

Don't believe me? Hear me out:

Unless you buy low end costume jewelry, ie pieces made out of cheap materials like shells and hemp, it's not waterproofed. Even 'professional', store brand, jewelry from a jewelers is not waterproofed. It's not waterproofed if it has metal in it. Metal ages, gains patina based on contact with oil from our skins and from contact with water. It may not happen right away, but you can bet your bottom that it's going to happen especially if the owner is persistent in wearing the piece in the water.

My pieces have the added fragility of also being composed out of paper. The design is inked on thick high quality artisan paper with high quality artisan pens. I protect the design with sturdy, clear, non-yellowing, UV protected laminate because resin dulls the ink and cheapens the overall affect of the artwork.

And yes, I do think of my jewelry as artwork, not craft. My jewelry is unique and handcrafted, there are no duplicates of any design. My work is more unique than mythic rare Magic Cards (nerdy game from high school). You will never be able to find this somewhere else so don't let the phrase, 'not waterproof,' fool you because you'll end up missing out on a wonderful opportunity to own a piece of collectible wearable art.

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