Interview with a Jamaican Jeweler

In a trip to Jamaica, I had some time to steal away with my friends to the craft market in Montego Bay. While there, we were able to see all the beautiful handmade jewelry and art offered by the local sellers. Take a look at the photo below of some jewelry from different shops:

What never ceases to amaze me is the sheer talent that these artisans possess, often creating art that never gets seen, acknowledged and most time these businesses make a fraction on the volume they're producing. 

These artists are very talented, and oftentimes don't get the opportunity to showcase their art to the right audience. I had the opportunity  to meet one artist, Ricardo, he was among many sellers asking for our attention at the market, but there was something about Ricardo that stood out. Maybe it was the fact that he had a booth and was selling ONLY jewelry. It made me think, ok, this guy is serious, he's and actual jewelry artist because he's doing something that I would do. He was friendly and gave us the run down on his products. Take a look at the video below:

 

Interview with Ricardo (Jamaican Jeweler) by Joanette Aird

Of course I was inspired by all the inventory Ricardo had his knowledge of his pieces and the fact that they were ALL handmade! He shared his experience and the struggle he had with making sales due to the cost to make these pieces and competing with many sellers to make a sale. He mentioned he mainly made money of travelers who came in off cruise ships that port in Montego Bay. Of course we had to buy something to show some love!