[Jewelry making - Article 01266] - Re: [Orchid] Profitable Hand Engraving

[Charles Friedman]

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    David raises an interesting point:  if you charge correctly they
    will pay. (how many of them are there out there?) 

    But there is a limit to this and it has 2 components: 

    The originating location must make a profit on the transaction, the
    more difficult or rare the transaction, the more you must charge to
    insure against occasional failures problems or difficulties.  I think
    that most of the profit will end up with the shop rather than with
    the technician. 

    How much do you love or value the technique:  do you have a special
    piece that has great value (real or imagined) for which you are
    willing to pay whatever it takes, or are you willing to accept a
    substitute but cheaper process or replace the item entirely rather
    than enhance the old one. 

    My perspective on this is both different and the same as the orchid
    audience: 

    I am a dentist trained to do very sophisticated procedures.  Not
    everyone understands or values what is at the leading edge.  Many who
    understand and value the leading edge cannot or will not afford it. 
    My wife is an artist and does custom work in precious metals and
    stones and I have observed her interaction with clients, so I think I
    understand what is involved in that end.  I also have a CNC engraving
    machine and can engrave the inside of rings with it using any
    typestyle or art work (no thanks I am not looking for work).  I know
    the difference between hand engraving and machine engraving. 

    If you live in the rarefied world where you get the recognition for
    your skill: go for it.  You will have very little competition.  The
    challenge is how to get the recognition.  If  you do a dozen
    magnificent pieces a year on items sent to you from all over the
    world, I think that you will still need to keep your day job. 

Only my opinion.
Charles Friedman DDS
Ventura by the Sea
Where the sun is shining right now

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