Why Jewellery Prices Change: From the Cost of Gold to the Value of Cra

Australian customers are becoming increasingly savvy in the way they purchase. From clothing and textiles to cosmetics and jewellery, there’s a growing demand to know where and how products are made. When this transparency isn’t clear, it can be a real barrier to purchase.

In an age where mass consumerism once drove every decision, people are now slowing down—seeking out brands that align with their values and give them confidence in what they’re buying.

Made-to-order jewellery introduces a meaningful pause in an otherwise instant world. The wait for a piece is not a frustration, but rather an invitation to connect with the making process. When combined with behind-the-scenes storytelling—such as jeweller profiles, in-progress videos, and long-standing brand messaging—customers gain the trust and transparency they need to feel assured in their investment.

Even as many consumers turn away from other luxury categories, fine jewellery remains a considered purchase. It’s still seen as a sound investment, particularly when brands keep their manufacturing close to home.

At Kate & Kole, we’ve always operated on a made-to-order model. More recently, we’ve built on this foundation by adopting what we call on demand manufacturing. This means we have the capacity to make 1,000 units of a design in-house while still offering customisations at an individual level. A customer can request a unique detail—whether it’s a change in material, size or design—and we can integrate that seamlessly into our process.

It’s a model that balances volume with intimacy, allowing us to stay true to our decade-long brand vision while also creating jobs in Australia, maintaining control over quality, and offering meaningful personalisation.

The jewellery industry has a long and rich heritage, with generations of families dedicated to design, making and trade. Yet, it’s still surprisingly common to be asked why we choose to make our lower-value pieces in Australia rather than off-shore.

For us, the answer is simple: it was never up for debate. Outsourcing would compromise not only our control, but also the ability to support local jobs and deliver the kind of customisation our customers have come to love. By making everything in-house, we can adapt in real-time, ensuring every piece—whether a signature design or a one-off—is crafted with intention.

Customisation now makes up around 30% of our business. These requests aren’t just transactions; they’re collaborations. Take our Hand-Drawn Hearts—a design that transforms a simple sketch from a loved one into a gold or silver keepsake. Pieces like this go beyond adornment; they carry stories, memories, and meaning.

This openness to collaboration builds trust and creates stronger bonds between customer and maker. It’s an exchange that makes the jewellery feel less like a commodity and more like a treasure.

In the end, the appeal of made-to-order jewellery lies in the rhythm it creates. The simple act of waiting a few extra days allows us to slow down, make with intention, and remain accountable for every stage of the design and making process.

It’s not just about what you wear—it’s about what it represents. A purchase that’s transparent, considered, and beautifully crafted in Australia.

— Sara, Co-Founder & Design Director