Blue Buddha Boutique

Blue Buddha Boutique specializes in do-it-yourself metal jewelry kits. They have capitalized on growing fascination with chainmaille: weaves of tiny metal rings like those used in medieval armor. On BlueBuddhaBoutique.com, customers find jump rings―the tiny circles of metal used to create chainmaille―as well as other items needed to make chainmaille jewelry, such as tools, clasps, earwires, polishing clothes and instructional materials. Blue Buddha Boutique was founded by Chicagoan Rebeca Mojica in 2003 as a way to sell her handmade chainmaille jewelry creations. After a short time, Mojica realized there was no reliable high-quality supplier for her components, so she changed her business model to become a jewelry supplies company. Over the years, Blue Buddha has taken more control over the supply chain and has committed to developing as many Made-in-the-USA components as possible. Blue Buddha goes far beyond basic manufacturing and retailing, however. They have a strong online presence dedicated to inspiring customers, answering questions and helping customers start their own artisan business. Blog posts tackle various articles of interest to the community, from pricing handmade goods to marketing to jewelry design.