Call for Artists, Making Money at Juried Art Fairs, Craft Shows and Festivals
Jewelry Thieves
I just finished an art fair in Ludington Michigan. On Saturday there was a rash of stolen pieces of jewelry. I know of eight jewelers who were hit. I believe there were more than that. The thieves were slick, friends of mine were aware that someone was targeting the jewelers. The husband and wife had there guard up more than usual and still had three bracelets valued at over $600 taken. The affected artists did not have there pieces under glass. This is just a heads up to try and find better ways to secure your items. Luckly my stone lamps are a little hard to pocket, but I would be sick to lose something I put my heart and soul into to some lowlife.
Maybe you jewelers can share security practices that work here to help everyone avoid the heartache caused by those jerks this past weekend.
I will post a review later, ended up for me one of the best shows so far this year.
Kevin
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Sheila Wissner on -
I was one of the jewelers who was hit. They got a $65 ring. I like to put them on top of the case so people can try them on, but I was forced to put them under glass the next day. I did 50% less than last year. Seemed like there were a lot more jewelers this year than last.
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Permalink Reply by Michael Skeen on -
Sorry to hear about this. We always leave our jewelry out, but this is something that I worry about at every show. Were they using distraction type tactics or was it some kind of snatch and run kind of thing?
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Permalink Reply by Diane Wright on -
So sorry to hear that. Although I do have all my beaded pieces out, all my sterling silver pieces are under glass. I figure that silver is the most pawnable.
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Permalink Reply by Claudia Winter on -
All of my pieces are out, as I encourage people to handle my jewelry. I really think it's a tactile medium, and I can't imagine having everything under glass. I totally understand it and have had a number of items stolen so I did change my display a bit. I got wooden necklace busts and screwed eyes in the back, so the necklace is attached to the bust. Yeah, they can still take it, but they would have to take the whole thing! I still occasionally have smaller pieces taken, but it's not as heartbreaking as losing a necklace. On a sidenote...I work shows by myself, and I'm pretty sure the theft happens when I'm busy with another customer (maybe the thief's cohort?)
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