We get it: artisan-made pieces often come with a higher price tag. But that number is a reflection of something deeper: craftsmanship, quality, individuality, and integrity. In a world of mass production, choosing handmade is a meaningful investment in artistry and values.
At The Giving Tree Gallery, we believe in honoring the story behind the piece; and that includes being transparent about what you're really paying for when you buy handcrafted art, jewelry, and decor.
Let's break it down.
The Artisan Difference: What You're Paying For
| Artisan-Made | Mass-Produced |
|---|---|
| • Hours of hands-on craftsmanship | • Seconds on a factory line |
| • Premium, ethically sourced materials | • Cheap, synthetic alternatives |
| • Limited editions or one-of-a-kind | • Thousands of identical units |
| • Direct support of individual artists | • Corporate profits & markups |
| • Built to last and age beautifully | • Designed to be replaced |
A Transparent Look at Artisan Pricing
Let’s take an example—a handcrafted necklace priced at $425.
Here’s how that breaks down:
Labor & Craftsmanship (30–40%)
You're paying for the artist’s time, talent, and mastery. Many of our designers have decades of experience, working with precious metals, stones, and ancient techniques.
Cricket Forge Handcrafting their iconic steel garden benches
Materials (20–30%)
Artisan makers use high-quality materials—ethically sourced stones, solid gold, sterling silver, and custom finishes—not mass-market imitations.
Ethical Sourcing & Sustainability (5–10%)
Many artisans prioritize environmentally conscious production and fair labor practices—something big-box stores often can’t claim.
Design sketch by Meira T
Design & Artistic Vision (10–15%)
From sketchbook to showcase, each piece reflects a singular point of view. You're wearing someone's creative spirit, not just an accessory.
Packaging, Distribution, Gallery Support (10–15%)
Every purchase supports a small team—from marketing to customer service—ensuring your experience matches the beauty of the item itself.
Artisan Pricing = Value That Lasts
When you invest in artisan-made, you're choosing…
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Fewer, better things
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A lasting emotional connection
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A purchase with purpose
Mass-produced goods may win on price—but often at the cost of quality, ethics, and originality.
Artisan Work in Action: From Our Gallery to You
Want to see the difference up close? Visit us on St. Armands Circle or explore some of our favorite examples online:
Spiritiles by Houston Llew – Every tile is poured, painted, and fired by hand.
Alex Sepkus – Extraordinary design, impeccable detail.
UNOde50 – Bold, expressive, and handcrafted in Spain.
Final Thoughts: Your Purchase Tells a Story
Every time you choose artisan over mass-produced, you're doing more than shopping—you’re preserving heritage, supporting families, and keeping creativity alive.
And we think that’s worth every penny.
