It is not good enough anymore to go to a department store and purchase some pretty
but mass produced rings that look exactly like those worn by thousands, if not, millions of others all around the world. If you really want to stand out compared to other people then you should buy handmade earrings and necklaces online.
Why? Because when you buy handmade jewelry not only are you buying something beautiful that is specially made just for you and for no one else, but you are also helping to support a true artist instead of some big faceless company. So when you buy handmade you are not simply showcasing your individuality you doing your part to make the world a better place as well.
Specifically I recommend buying handmade jewelry on Etsy because it is home to many of the top handmade jewelry artists from all around the US and the rest of the world so there's a wonderful selection of all types of different styles of earrings and necklaces available. Some of the jewelry makers on Etsy even include free shipping with every order like my favorite shop Oliver Jewelry.
Certainly if you make your home in a hip progressive place you may be able to buy some great handmade necklaces and earrings at a local store but what I really like about shopping on the web is that there's no "pressure" to buy anything, you can simply look at the jewelry at your own pace and decide what you want.
Furthermore I definitely think the creativity level you can find browsing on the Etsy website is far higher than you will find at local local crafts fairs. That said, there is definitely nothing wrong with shopping locally if that's how you like to do it. I'm a big believer in the movement to buy more food locally.
The important thing is that you purchase handmade earrings and necklaces one way or another! Forget the machine produced garbage sold at jewelry stores, unique handmade jewelry is a much better purchase. Not only does it look great but it also lets you make a great "personal connection" with a real jewelry artist. Think about it, when you buy made by hand that means someone used their expertise and spent their time creating something unique just for you.