In an age of mass production, Sri Lanka’s handmade gold jewellery stands apart.
1. The Artisan’s Touch: Techniques Machines Can’t Copy
a) Lost-Wax Casting (Still Used Since 7th Century)
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Beeswax carving: Each piece starts as a hand-sculpted model
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Clay mold firing: 800°C kilns burn out wax, leaving a cavity
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Gold pouring: Molten gold fills the mold’s intricate details
b) Hand Chasing & Engraving
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Tools: Bamboo stylus, magnifying lenses
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Signature: Slight imperfections prove human craftsmanship
c) Kundan Stone Setting
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No Prongs: 24K gold "foil" secures gems
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Sri Lankan Twist: Uses Ceylon sapphires instead of glass
2. Why Handmade Gold Outshines Machine-Made
| Factor | Handmade | Machine-Made |
|---|---|---|
| Detail | 3D depth (e.g., peacock feathers) | Flat, repetitive patterns |
| Durability | Thicker gold layers | Thin electroplating |
| Value | Appreciates over time | Depreciates fast |
| Uniqueness | One-of-a-kind | 1000+ identical copies |
3. The True Cost of Handmade
a) Time Investment
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Bangle: 3 days (vs. 3 minutes machine-stamped)
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Necklace Set: 2 weeks
b) Price Comparison
| Piece | Handmade (LKR) | Machine (LKR) |
|---|---|---|
| 22K Bangle | 85,000 | 45,000 |
| Bridal Set | 1.2M | 600,000 |
Why Pay More?
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Heirloom quality (lasts generations)
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Supports dying crafts
FAQ
Q: Can I customize handmade designs?
A: Yes! Artisans love personal commissions (allow 4-6 weeks).
Q: Does handmade gold tarnish?
A: Never if pure alloy mixes cause tarnish, not craftsmanship.
Q: How to care for handmade pieces?
A: Annual artisan cleanings (they know the grooves best).
Handmade gold carries the soul of its maker a legacy no machine can replicate. In Sri Lanka’s hurried modernity, these pieces remain slow, sacred, and utterly irreplaceable.
Explore Handmade Collections