You can find the most beautiful jewelry in Santa Fe, whether it be traditional Native American, distinctly Southwestern, or have a modern minimal vibe. Since Santa Fe has so many artists living nearby, it also follows that you can also find the most amazing jewelry supplies in Santa Fe. I usually order from these stores online, and love the opportunity to stop by in person to check out what they have in stock. To be fair, some of the best jewelry supply stores are in the Albuquerque area as well. Artists tend to commute between these two cities, since the cost of living in Albuquerque is much more reasonable.
Santa Fe Jewelry Supply
Santa Fe Jewelry Supply was right around the corner from my hotel! It was an easy fifteen minute walk to this wholesale jewelry supply store, which was well worth the effort. Holding the findings and chain in my hands to see the scale between the items made a world of difference in my final decision. Also, for a wholesale store they are surprisingly accommodating when you buy smaller quantity, which is good when you are still working out a design before buying in bulk.
Rio Grande Jewelry Supply
Technically in Albuquerque, not Santa Fe, Rio Grande Jewelry Supply is one of the most well-known jewelry supply stores. Many independent jewelers order supplies from this company, and for good reason. They’ve had great wholesale prices and a breadth of tools offered for quite some time.
Mama’s Minerals of Santa Fe
While the previous merchants cover jewelry supplies and metals, the best lapidary prices are usually found at a store that specializes in gemstones. My favorite lapidary supplier that I’ve found so far in Santa Fe is right in the center of the tourist fray of the Plaza, in the same building as the popular La Fonda restaurant. Browse through rows of gemstones at reasonable prices, and pick out some lovely turquoise local flavor. Keep an eye out for specials that make it easier to buy in bulk.
Those are my favorite places to shop for supplies for special projects! Are there any that I missed? I’m always on the lookout for new places to buy jewelry supplies in Santa Fe or elsewhere, especially a unique lapidary!