Is Jewelry Still a Craft?: the Role of Trust and Work Ethic in Jewelry Sector the Case of Istanbul Grand Bazaar

In the study, the sustainability of local craftsmanship as affected by trust and work ethic will be discussed in the specific case of the jewelry sector in the Grand Bazaar. The case study is presented relying on interviews. The research theme is evaluated in sub-categories which contain socio-demographic structure, work ethic of masters and apprentices, Grand Bazaar and the jewelry sector. The effects of trust, work ethic, and obedience on craftsmanship are discussed. Basically, informal relations form the foundation for the work and trade relations especially in craft based jewelry sector. The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul was chosen because it is the most important place for the craft-based jewelry sector in Turkey. This study first poses a general question by asking whether or not the jewelry sector in Istanbul (the Grand Bazaar) is still a craft. The analysis of the concepts of trust, work ethic, obedience, and social networks are operationalized and provide the frame for the main examination. The investigation of this topic will give clues about the organizational structure, working conditions of sector members and the production process of the sector.