There are lots of debates over these tariffs, and I usually avoid the politically degrading conversations, but I can honestly confirm that many US-based beading suppliers that we all love still source all types of jewelry-making materials from overseas. The notion of keeping materials to local businesses is AWESOME, but they are also struggling to maintain their business model due to the tariffs and keeping their price point and delivery capabilities reasonable, especially as we’re simultaneously seeing many layoffs in America.

I buy locally or “USA Made” on Amazon as much as possible. I purchase from fellow artists. I use the search feature of Etsy to purchase from those close to me in Kentucky. I buy from the big box craft stores. I buy from US based jewelry suppliers that offer kits that I love, but I actually do recognize the curated materials from overseas suppliers. And I’m fine with that- if the quality of the product meets my needs and Sparkle Squad standards.

USA gemstone mines are a great resource! There are companies I treasure such as Rio Grande that offer fabulous, ethically sourced gemstones and metals, albeit often at higher price points than are not sustainable by small artists whose clientele don’t expect to pay $200 for a piece of jewelry. For myself, it’s about my experience with the companies I love offering components that don’t contain lead or certain chemicals, etc. I just have to be mindful of testing unknowns. I think we can all agree on our love of Czech glass beads and they are outside the US.

The tariffs are an attempt to get businesses that moved abroad to come back to the USA in some capacity, creating more jobs for us in theory, but primarily paying more taxes locally to help revamp areas that shriveled up when companies moved abroad. The money being made by outside businesses highly taxing US imports while paying very little or nothing to America by way of T86 policy has made it great for American pocketbooks, but needs an equalizer. I’m not an economist, but I know this is going to be painful for everyone.

It’s also going to harm bead curators who find us the wholesale deals and create beading deals for unique and trendy supplies that we use in our designs. I call them time savers and sparkly miracle workers. They may no longer be able to afford that business model now though. That dims my shimmer.

Right now, thankfully some suppliers are still offering recommendations to help tide us over until we get into actual tariff scenarios after May 2nd, if it’s not delayed again. A lot is posturing to try to acquire some of our buying power back here vs. constantly giving it away. What I find most valuable about this scenario and especially while the dialogue continues…is maintaining respect for people, no matter where they are from. I wish everyone well.