The Therapeutic Nature of Jewelry Making

Delicate, soothing, and engaging—this intricate art form might become your next favorite escape.

Words Felicity Anne Castor
Photo courtesy of Kraftika Shop
April 29, 2025

Jewelry has long been regarded as a symbol of opulence. Dating back to prehistoric times, humans adorned themselves with embellishments crafted from shells, animal bones, and precious metals, well before the concept of clothing even existed. 

Originally a display of wealth and social standing, jewelry has since evolved, becoming more accessible with the advent of fast fashion. Today, it serves as a powerful form of self-expression and personal style. During the pandemic, many turned to creative hobbies as a source of comfort and inspiration—jewelry making among them. 

Its appeal lies in its versatility: a wide array of techniques and materials allows it to cater to various tastes and interests. Beyond its artistic value, jewelry making offers a calming, meditative process that provides a sense of control—an especially soothing outlet in times of uncertainty and anxiety.

A treasure trove of knowledge

Jewelry making involves various skills, tools, and techniques, but starting with the basics makes it easier. Begin with a strand of beads, elastic string, pliers, and metal findings. From there, explore different bead types—acrylic, stone, lampwork glass—and gradually expand into other techniques like knotting, resin casting, or even metalsmithing.

While jewelry making is an ancient and intricate craft, it’s accessible to anyone with a genuine desire to learn. With numerous online resources available, you can dive in and start creating, no matter your experience level.

In control

Studies have shown that creative activities have a positive impact on mental health. Jewelry making, in particular, demands a unique level of focus that can deeply immerse you in the creative process, offering an experience that feels like an escape from everyday life. 

It provides the freedom to create whatever you envision—whether it’s the choice of materials, the style, or the techniques you use. This sense of control is incredibly beneficial for the mind, especially when working through negative emotions.

Organizing your materials can also be a calming and therapeutic activity. Sorting beads by color or type, establishing a designated space for your tools and supplies, and curating a personalized workspace all contribute to making the entire process even more relaxing.

The sense of accomplishment you feel when you see your finished piece is incredibly rewarding. It’s a tangible representation of your hard work, creativity, and vision. Whether you make it for yourself, as a gift for friends and family, or even as a source of income, the satisfaction of saying “I made that” is empowering and can boost your self-esteem.

Jewelry making has a rich history dating back to ancient times, but it’s never too late to begin. Having a piece that carries personal meaning, created with love and care, makes the craft much more meaningful than other forms of artistic expression. While jewelry is not a necessity, the act of creating it for the sake of art and personal expression brings joy and a sense of purpose that many other hobbies cannot provide.