Silver Prices & The Future of Cocobelle Jewellery
If you’ve been following jewellery brands or even just the news lately, you’ve probably noticed the mahoosive jump in silver prices over the past year.
Even the same piece of silver wire I’d usually buy to make a ring has doubled in cost, and it’s affecting jewellery makers everywhere- including me!
So why is this happening, and what does it mean for jewellery makers and customers?
Why is silver increasing in price?
Silver is used across an enormous range of industries, including:
Solar panels and renewable energy technology
Electronics and semiconductors
Electric vehicles
Medical equipment (silver naturally fights bacteria)
Batteries and green technologies
And ofcourse Jewellery and silverware
The tricky part is that silver is mostly mined as a by-product of other metals like copper and zinc, so supply can’t just be ramped up to meet demand. Add in economic and political uncertainty, and prices naturally climb- something organisations like the World Bank have also highlighted across the industry.
How businesses are adapting
Many small businesses have had to adapt: some are switching to metals like brass and copper, while others have made the tough decision to scale back or even close. One big brand that makes mini charms- let’s call it Pandylora- has decided to replace their silver charms with a base metal coated in platinum plating. Their announcement reads:
“Pandora Pandylora will reduce its reliance on sterling silver while continuing to offer consumers high‑quality, desirable jewellery at accessible price points. Unlike silver, platinum does not tarnish and will keep shining even if worn to the beach, pool or for workouts.”
Sounds great, right? Well, not exactly… The truth is that plating is temporary. Over time (usually a couple of years), the plated layer wears away, revealing the base metal underneath. It often needs re-plating or replacing. And the lack of clear communication about this to customers is, frankly, disappointing.
Silver prices don’t have to be bad news
Yes, rising silver costs affect jewellery prices, but I like to see it as an opportunity. I’m using this moment to tidy up my website and focus on the pieces I love making the most: one-of-a-kind commissions and narrative, story-led jewellery. These pieces take longer to make, but they allow me to create with care, using silver thoughtfully and intentionally.
Another silver lining? There are thousands of sellers offering ‘silver’ pieces online at prices that barely cover the raw materials. Rising costs make people question how jewellery can be made so cheaply- a classic case of if it seems too good to be true, it probably is!
The most important thing I want you to know
As long as people enjoy wearing my designs, I’ll continue making them.
I will always be honest and transparent about the materials I use, how pieces are made, and the value behind them. That includes bespoke commissions, narrative pieces, or any jewellery you choose to wear from Cocobelle.
If you have a special occasion, birthday, or milestone coming up, I’d love to hear from you. You can find out more about bespoke jewellery here. If you’re curious or have an idea you’d like to explore, you’re always welcome to get in touch for a chat- there’s never any pressure.