Fair Trade Jewelry Artisan - Jorge Sepulveda

Jorge Sepúlveda lives a southern suburb of Santiago called Puente Alto which is next to the Andean Mountains. Jorge has worked as a jewelry craftsman for over 20 years, producing copper and bronze jewelry. Jorge acquired his skills by apprenticing in another workshop. Originally, Jorge studied electro mechanics before changing careers to create jewelry. Jorge's decision to switch careers was as a result of monetary factors.

Jorge's 300 square foot workshop is next to his home. His wife and oldest son who is 20 years of age work along side Jorge. His son is working with Jorge to learn jewellery making techniques. 

For Jorge, the value of the products they create is based on their uniqueness. While the workshop is well equipped, Jorge is facing some problems with the supply of raw materials. It is often hard to find bronze suppliers. Consequently, Jorge cannot produce rapidly as he needs more metal. In years past, his production level has been quite unstable.

The eighties were a good period for handicraft in Chile. During this time period Jorge employed himself and 12 others in the workshop next to his home. But soon orders started to decrease, as well as the staff he employed. Jorge wants to re-gain a higher production level. His workshop is capable of producing three to four times more then his current production level. To reach this level Jorge needs a steady supply of material, a constant number of orders, and 2 to 3 more employees.

Jorge is constantly developing his jewelry line in an attempt to find new customers as well as diversify his work.

Jorge sells his jewelry to a Chilean Fair Trade organisation for over ten years. The Fair Trade organisation helps Jorge export 40% of his products abroad. Jorge's next step is to extend his jewelry line.

Today, Jorge faces tough competition from lower cost producing markets. It is extremely difficult to compete with their cheaper products however, Jorge believes that people value handcrafted products.

Production Process
1 - The metal sheets are processed and fused with a blowpipe

2 - The bronze/copper is cleaned before welding to avoid damaging the metal

3 - All of the pieces are welded and cleaned again

4 - The jewelry piece is sanded and a hammer is used to create different effects on the metal

5 - The metal is cut according to the design

6 - Hooks and other parts are soldered

7 - The jewelry is polished and shined

8 - All natural stones such as Lapizlazuli, the national Chilean stone are attached as a final step in the process