Gyrogami Blog - Precious Metals, Jewelry, Artwork

"Made in the USA"

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Categories: Ethics and laws; Commerce and business

Word count/read time: 489 words; 2 minutes

I know. You're saying I already did this entry a while ago but this is different. Fewer products are made in the USA as companies have all but offshored every type of manufacturing to make more money. Of the remaining products, how many actually meet the legal definition of being made in the USA? Yes, this phrase has a legal definition like organic for food, handmade for jewelry, and corrosion-resistant for metals.

For manufacturers in the jewelry and chainmaille industry - based on what I see in the marketplace - this is just another phrase they ignore entirely, using it ad hoc to describe their products. While those goods may be assembled in the USA, most are not made in the USA. Then again, these industries are ubiquitous with cheating and scams so the chicanery is no surprise.

The wording of the law is quite clear to anyone with a third-grade education. It can be found here. If it all ain't made here, every part and component, every raw material, and fully assembled stateside with documentation to prove it then it isn't "Made in the USA."

So you will see creative ways to circumvent the "foreign-made" implications or anything that hints at a non-domestic product. The phrase can still be used provided the exclusions are listed immediately thereafter:

(Designed, Crafted, Assembled) in the USA
(Made, Handcrafted) in the USA with the world's best components
etc.

The most peculiar sidestepping of this law was when a story made the rounds about a foreign city called Usa (its location alternates between China and Japan, both of which have said cities). However, companies don't need a foreign scapegoat to deceive their customers because the penalties are a joke like so many supposed consumer protection laws.

This law has irked many manufacturers. Without knowledge of the manufacturing and origin of their findings, alloys, or whatnot they may run afoul of the law. Those who can't use the phrase because of violating what they call a "technicality" are most vocal, go figure. Then change your ways and quit your bitchin'!

My clients will be happy to know that everything I make is created literally from the atomic level and unequivocally made, designed, and produced in the USA including the rawest of the raw materials. There are no exclusions, doubletalk, fine print, or misleading statements. Handmade, too. By me. All me.

Aside from the negative stereotypes that certain items have - questionable foreign goods, conflict minerals, counterfeit items, fake precious metals, and the false advertising accompanying them - most people are willing to accept deception and the misery thrust upon the exploited workers and environment as long as it's a good deal. That's their prerogative, but at least they should be aware of the consequences of their actions. But "who" with a conscience would support such practices? Sadly, pretty much anyone with disposable income especially when it comes to luxury items.

Posted by M: May 21, 2023

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