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A Post-College Guide with Sarabande

What Now? A Post-College Guide with Sarabande Matty Bovan joins panel to talk to new graduates about post-pandemic work life 22 & 23 June 2022   This June, Sarabande Foundation will host What Now? - a series of talks and workstations to help recent and soon-to-be arts and fashion graduates tackle post-university panic. The COVID-19 pandemic deeply affected the creative industries and had a huge impact on job prospects for new graduates. Job openings fell by 66.5% - some 128,000 fewer jobs than pre-pandemic, and recent graduates who were self-employed or freelancing had their work opportunities crushed. Building on the

Pearls - A Practical Guide ​by Wendy Graham

Pearls - A Practical Guide by Wendy Graham Pearls are one of the oldest precious gemstones.  They have been revered through history and the best reserved to adorn royalty and their favourites.  Now, with the arrival of freshwater pearls, they are available to suit every pocket and every style, from the classic to the most creative.   Includes a guide to the types of pearl and to the farming process.  Gives advice on buying pearls; what to look for and what to avoid.  Gives instruction on working with pearls, including drilling, setting and knotting.  Finally, there is information on South Sea,

Hatton Garden BID Debuts Glittering Gift Guide

London’s historical jewellery quarter, Hatton Garden BID presents precious pieces from independent boutiques with the area's first-ever Christmas Gift Guide launch. This highly anticipated Gift Guide showcases an array of precious designs, bespoke pieces and luxury watches from more than 20 jewellery retailers and designers based in the area. Created to promote Hatton Garden and its fine jewellery offer this Christmas, the Glittering Hatton Garden Gift Guide features over 50 pieces including engagement rings, luxury watches and vintage treasures. The Gift Guide has launched online via the Hatton-Garden.london website as a digital publication that can be viewed with the click of a mouse.

GIA Develops Free Gem Guide for Artisanal Miners

The GIA (Gemological Institute of America), working with nonprofit international development organization Pact, have recently launched a pilot study to test a new rough gem guide. The guide was developed specifically to offer basic gemological and market knowledge for artisanal miners in gem-producing regions. The illustrated booklet, available in English and Tanzanian Swahili, was distributed to approximately 45 women miners in the  Tanga  region of Tanzania. “This project is at the very core of GIA’s mission,” said GIA President and CEO Susan Jacques. “We are moving practical gemstone education as far up the supply chain as possible, to people who

The Ultimate Engagement Ring Guide

When it comes to engagement rings, the right style, colour, size, band, decoration and price is as unique as the wearer themselves! So when it comes to picking the right ring for your wife or husband to be, it's no wonder that many end up feeling overwhelmed as after all! If you're going to wear a ring for the rest of your life, you've got to make sure it's something pretty that hits the spot! Whilst one person may like a single diamond solitaire, another may want something a little unique with a Padparadscha sapphire pop! “Love is just a

Business: Start-Up Guide

We all enjoy a good read. Our bookstore has been hand-picked to offer you inspiring resources. 

Valentine's Gift Guide: Sparkle with Love

It's that time of year again when February 14th is looming at large and the pressures of presenting delicate gifts of grandeur are heavy in the air. As one of the most romantic days of the calendar year, Valentine's Day has become a day dedicated to showing appreciation, dedication and true affection to the one you love. If you're seeking a gift of love that speaks louder than a box of praline chocolates and lasts longer than a bunch of dozen red roses then steer your attention to a gift that's larger than life. Life is precious, delicate and infinitely

The Complete Guide to Making Wire Jewellery

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Put The Sparkle In Christmas: Jewellery Gift Guide

Seasons greetings everyone! It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas and as Andy Williams so tunefully sung, 'It's the most wonderful time of the year'! Tracking down that perfect gift to jingle the silver bells of that special someone can end up feeling more like a trek through ice than a gliding sledge ride through the snow. Chill out and put your feet up - we've put on our Christmas elf boots and have scoured the festive collections to bring you the sparkling stars of the Jewellery Christmas tree - guaranteed to inject a touch of merriment to even

When Sparks Fly: Leading Lady Gift Guide

There's no more hiding under your blanket of ignorance anymore so it's time to stop playing ostrich and embrace the fact that tis' officially the season to shimmer & shine topped off with an abundant shower of bubbly wine! Bring a touch of sparkle to Christmas morning and enchant the leading lady(ies) in your life with a gift that speaks from the deep dark depths of your wallet heart! When it comes to present plucking for the fine female in your life it can often leave you feeling like a duck led to a barren river-bed...out of your depth &

The New Heirloom: Pyrrha Jewellery Gift Guide

The yearly search for a memorable holiday gift – one that will be kept, worn, and talked about for years to come – ends here . Perfect for family, new loves, old loves, friends, and mentors, there is a Pyrrha talisman to represent and celebrate each and every relationship.  Why Pyrrha? Inspired by wax seals and imagery from the Victorian era Handcrafted and cast in reclaimed sterling silver, bronze, and 14K gold Comes with a hand-torn meaning card detailing the jewelry’s unique and symbolic significance culled from heraldry A certified B Corporation due to its commitment to sustainable practices Currently

Silver Jewellery Making

Silver Jewellery Making by Machi de Waard & Janet Richardson A beginner's step-by-step guide to creating beautiful silver jewellery. Silver Jewellery Making  is a practical beginners’ guide to making silver jewellery. Seven step-by-step projects guide you through the core skills and techniques that will enable you to progress to making your own beautiful jewellery. The tried-and-tested projects have been developed by Machi and Janet, who have over 40 years of industry experience teaching others this amazing craft. The emphasis is on teaching good practice and acquiring the basic techniques and skills to give the reader a solid basis for developing their

Give the Gift of Time

It's that time of year full of festive cheer but the quest for finding that perfect gift can set your patience on fire! As your list of errands become never-ending, pop your feet up, grab a jug of mulled wine and let Benchpeg guide you through a gift guide guaranteed to stand the test of time. How about something sparkly for your sister, something bright  for your niece, sleek and sharp for your brother or what about something dainty for your ? When it comes to picking the perfect timepiece, the array of styles, designs and fits are endless! We've got your

Wax Carving for Jewellers by Russell Lownsbrough FIPG & Danila Tarcinale FIPG

Wax Carving for Jewellers  by Russell Lownsbrough FIPG & Danila Tarcinale FIPG This practical guide introduces the techniques to this age-old method through a series of guided exercises and projects, and demonstrates how exciting it can be.  Wax carving is like sculpture for jewellery and allows enormous creativity, as so many different forms can be made. Drawing on the experience of two master wax-carvers, it also gives invaluable advice on the finish of your cast pieces and how to reproduce them. With over 400 colour photos, it give advice on setting up for wax carving, tools, tool-making and materials. There

Design for Jewellery Makers: Inspiration, development and creation

Design for Jewellery Makers: Inspiration, development and creation by Louise Seijen ten Hoorn A clear, comprehensive and practical 'how-to' guide and resource for all aspects of designing jewellery.  This book contains expert guidance on design and the design process, and includes step-by-step project briefs and themes for readers to use as a basis for developing their own ideas. It is suitable for all intermediate and professional jewellery makers, as well as those attending jewellery-making courses and who have taken up jewellery making as a hobby.  The book explores the design process in depth, from fundamentals of jewellery design such as

Design for Jewellery Makers: Inspiration, development and creation

Design for Jewellery Makers: Inspiration, development and creation by Louise Seijen ten Hoorn A clear, comprehensive and practical 'how-to' guide and resource for all aspects of designing jewellery.  This book contains expert guidance on design and the design process, and includes step-by-step project briefs and themes for readers to use as a basis for developing their own ideas. It is suitable for all intermediate and professional jewellery makers, as well as those attending jewellery-making courses and who have taken up jewellery making as a hobby.  The book explores the design process in depth, from fundamentals of jewellery design such as practical

Advanced Jewellery CAD Modelling in Rhino

Advanced Jewellery CAD Modelling in Rhino by Jack Meyer  This detailed guide is written for intermediate and experienced Rhino 3D CAD users who wish to improve their understanding of NURBS and subdivision modelling methods in Rhino 3D. It explains how 3D modelling applies to jewellery and manufacturing through a combination of step-by-step tutorials, analysis of the software techniques and demonstrations of real world case studies. Packed with essential techniques and strategies, it can be used as a self-learning tool or a classroom text to take your use of Rhino's 3D NURBS and subdivision modelling tools to a higher level. This

Design for Jewellery Makers: Inspiration, development and creation

Design for Jewellery Makers: Inspiration, development and creation by Louise Seijen ten Hoorn A clear, comprehensive and practical 'how-to' guide and resource for all aspects of designing jewellery.  This book contains expert guidance on design and the design process, and includes step-by-step project briefs and themes for readers to use as a basis for developing their own ideas. It is suitable for all intermediate and professional jewellery makers, as well as those attending jewellery-making courses and who have taken up jewellery making as a hobby.  The book explores the design process in depth, from fundamentals of jewellery design such as practical

Benchpeg's Bookshelf Book List

We all enjoy a good read. Our bookshelf has been hand-picked. Design for Jewellery Makers: Inspiration, development and creation A clear, comprehensive and practical 'how-to' guide and resource for all aspects of designing jewellery.  This book contains expert guidance on design and the design process, and includes step-by-step project briefs and themes for readers to use as a basis for developing their own ideas. It is suitable for all intermediate and professional jewellery makers, as well as those attending jewellery-making courses and who have taken up jewellery making as a hobby.  The book explores the design process in depth, from

News Edit: 23 January 2022

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Valentine’s Day Gift Guide: The Best Ethical And Eco-Friendly Jewelry Forbes: Jewelry is a classic choice for a Valentine’s Day gift, but it will mean even more if it’s eco-friendly and produced ethically. In fact, if you have someone difficult to shop for this Valentine’s Day, gifting a unique jewelry piece that was produced with fair labor and sustainable environmental practices is a way to win instant points. www.forbes.com Chanel marks 90 years of high jewellery with new 1932 collection The National News: The maison is paying tribute

News Edit: 31 May 2020

As we find our 'new normal' here is a round up of last week's international jewellery news...   Jewelry crush: The 1970s sunglasses chain by Zoï Paris Vogue: Spotted at several fashion shows recently, the glasses chain is making a comeback. And that's the daring gamble this jewelry designer has taken. We're crushing on this vintage-inspired piece of jewelry for this summer. vogue.fr The Minimalist’s Guide to Elegant, Everyday Jewelry Vogue: Every wardrobe should establish a roster of minimal, everyday jewelry, whether you prefer silver, gold, or a combination of both. Finding the right pieces that feel personal can take

London Edge 2019

London Edge Business Design Centre, London 1 - 2 September 2019 Started in 1999 in response to an urgent call from the fashion industry to provide an inclusive & respectful platform for the lifestyle & alternative markets. Rooted firmly in an exceptional customer service ethos, the LondonEdge team support, guide & advise our exhibiting & retail partners at a level that’s second to none. As we begin our 3rd decade we look forward with excitement to the future for this cornerstone of global lifestyle fashion. Whilst we continue to adjust to reflect new trends & allow for changes in business

News Edit: 18 October 2020

Here is a round up of last week's international jewellery news...   Collecting guide: David Webb jewellery Christies: Best known for his zebra and frog bangles, the American jeweller David Webb has long been a favourite with movie stars and fashion icons for jewels that combine ancient motifs, bold colours and fabulous beasts. christies.com Fresh SMU grad gets chance to shine at jewellery retailer Straits Times: Last year, Ms Cheryl Tan decided to take up an internship in her final year of studies at Singapore Management University, delaying her graduation by six months. straitstimes.com Cheating husband exposed by simple mistake

Tweet

Tweet 16th March - 22nd June 2019 The Craft Centre & Design Gallery, Leeds, West Yorkshire Makers inspired by the beauty of birds come together in this remarkable display of jewellery, ceramics, stone, wood and works in mixed media.  Each maker translates their inspirations into unique handmade creations for you to own or admire. Jewellery Sally Ayling Sally’s jewellery is inspired by nature, in particular birds.  The graphic images from field-guide books and wildlife illustrations, ordinance survey maps, charming old packaging, classic industrial design and many other bits and pieces Sally sees on her travels.  Sally enjoys using unconventional materials

Introducing 'Living Coral' Pantone's Colour of the Year 2019

Colour-giant, Pantone, have proclaimed ‘Living Coral’ the colour of the year for 2019. With each passing year, it seems that Pantone’s influence becomes increasingly ubiquitous; permeating all aspects of marketing, design and culture.  Here, Benchpeg puts together a guide to the colour, its meaning and possible colour combinations to equip you with what you need to know as a jeweller.  The inspiration ‘Living coral’ prescribes a return to nature in a world more and more engulfed and shaped by technology. Pantone say: “Pantone 16-1546 Living Coral emits the desired, familiar and energizing aspects of colour found in nature. In its

Two Sides - One Story - Pin mechanisms & brooch back design

Donna Brennan Contemporary presents Two Sides - One Story: Pin mechanisms & brooch back design with Daniela Malev International Jewellery Masterclasses 5 - 9 September 2018 Led by Brooch expert Daniela Malev, author of the definitive guide to brooch pin design, "To The Point - Pin Mechanisms and Brooch Back Design." In this Masterclass, Daniela will lead you through an array of innovative pin solutions which form an integral part of the overall brooch design. Daniela Malev is a jeweller and teacher. Trained as a goldsmith in her hometown Dresden, Germany, she also holds a Master Craftman ́s Certificate for

Orkney Jewellery Designer Re-Creates Rare Pictish Necklace

A young Orkney jewellery designer has re-created a rare, 1,400-year-old Pictish necklace, the original of which is kept within the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh. Zoe Davidson crafted her 1kg solid silver version of the famous Whitecleugh Chain, discovered in Lanarkshire in 1869, after a personal commission from Orkney archaeology tour guide, Caz Mamwell. The original chain, thought to date from between 400 and 800AD, is comprised of 44 silver rings, interlinked into 22 pairs. “The Whitecleugh Chain is full of mystery as nobody really knows who wore it, when they wore it, or how they even made it,”

Munich Jewellery Week 2018

Munich Jewellery Week 2018 Munich Jewellery Week is an independent initiative that supports and communicates yearly citywide jewellery exhibitions in Munich. This year, Munich Jewellery Week have launched a new interactive website to offer visitors and participants a smooth MJW experience. Directly linked to the Google Maps, the website will immediately indicate your location and distance to each event. Open it on your phone and click on the address line to switch to Google Maps.  Take advantage of the free roaming for EU mobile users travelling to other countries and use our interactive website as a perfect tool to guide

The November Sisters: Citrine & Topaz

The penultimate month of the year and an exciting one at that, those born in November will not only have various parties and cocktail events to choose from but they'll also have two beautiful birthstones to choose between: topaz and citrine. With these two gorgeous gems giving you countless options of chic and classic styles to opulent and dramatic style, the challenge lies in picking which one to plump for! With Citrine known for its charming warmth of yellow and orange hues and Topaz occurring in a wide spectrum of  far beyond yellow, here's an overview of each birthstone to help guide

'Tis The Season To Party & Shine

The nights have drawn in with dark and bitter blights of misery so it's time to draw them out in a festoon of festive shimmer, shine and all things fine. The party season has officially begun so grab a hot coco and dip into our seasonal festive style guide that will transform your RSPV's from maybe to 'hell yes Santa baby!' As we spin into the most sociable time of year, dazzle and twinkle your way through copious cocktail hours in a haze of head-turning adornments, from striking arm candy, fabulous fringing, glamour cocktail gemstones to tantalising shimmers of diamond

Two Sides - One Story - Pin mechanisms & brooch back design

Donna Brennan Contemporary presents Two Sides - One Story: Pin mechanisms & brooch back design International Jewellery Masterclasses 11 July - 15 July 2018 Led by Brooch expert Daniela Malev, author of the definitive guide to brooch pin design, "To The Point - Pin Mechanisms and Brooch Back Design." In this Masterclass, Daniela will lead you through an array of innovative pin solutions which form an integral part of the overall brooch design. Daniela Malev is a jeweller and teacher. Trained as a goldsmith in her hometown Dresden, Germany, she also holds a Master Craftman ́s Certificate for Gold- and

CVS: The Vital Ingredients For A Successful Business

Leading business valuation specialists Company Valuation Services (CVS), name communication and transparency as the vital ingredients to ensuring a successful business sale. Thorough preparation in the early stages can mean fewer problems in the long-run   Company Valuation Services (CVS) publish an in-depth guide on good business practice and how to increase the value of your business   It’s often been said that honesty is the best policy, and in the case of the mergers and acquisitions market, this has never been truer. According to  business valuation expert, Company Valuation S ervices , business owners considering a sale should keep

Designer/Maker Portfolio Reviews

Designer/Maker Portfolio Reviews at The National Centre for Craft & Design - Sleaford If you are a designer/maker seeking critical feedback on your work or if you are a recent graduate seeking guidance about your development as a creative practitioner, then this for you! Book a free 45 minute one-to-one session with one of Design Factory’s resident craft and design experts and receive advice on product development and exhibiting or selling work. These sessions are suitable for everyone at any stage of business and creative practice and offer vital advice and critical feedback to guide ongoing development and growth. Dates

Top Drawer S/S – Olympia, London

Journey into Top Drawer S/S17 to explore our expertly curated selection of global brands and innovative new names. Top Drawer is your perfect guide to a careful selection of UK and international lifestyle brands showing he very best, most original and commercially appealing designs across Home, Gift, Fashion and Craft. With more exclusive world launches than ever, an expanded Food Emporium and great new talent to discover in Spotted, your quest for new design-led products starts right here. Rigorous about selection, Top Drawer presents an expert edit of the newest, most exciting products from high quality companies passionate about design

Heat, Bash, Buff: Learning To Make A Silver Ring

"Jewellery Has The Power To Be This One Little Thing That Can Make You Feel Unique." - Jennie Kwon Having recently embarked upon my eye-opening journey into the world of Jewellery, my spirit guide, editor and working partner to all things sparkly and juicy in the jewellery world thought it was about time I stopped talking the talk of all things silver and pretty and set my sights upon navigating the benchpeg instead. The idea of flouncing around flaunting my very own silver number sounded absolutely fabulous whilst the idea of me having to make friends with a hammer and

News Edit: 22 January 2023

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   How to work with silver: You can embrace mistakes as the beauty of handmade jewellery Irish Times: Gemma Tipton offers a beginner’s guide to taking up a new cultural pursuit. www.irishtimes.com The Most Jaw-Dropping Red Carpet Jewellery Of All Time Vogue: Fashions change, but diamonds are forever – especially when it comes to red-carpet dressing. Without it, an outfit may look good, but nothing adds polish, finesse or glamour like lashings of precious stones. www.vogue.co.uk You can now buy jewellery made from Iron Maiden's guitar strings, and it's

News Edit: 12 July 2020

As we find our 'new normal' here is a round up of last week's international jewellery news...   Chopard brings a playful edge to its red carpet-worthy high jewellery The Telegraph: A necklace featuring 90 carats of heart-shaped diamonds and gemstone-studded animals are among the highlights of Chopard's 2020 collection. telegraph.co.uk Sustainability Tips from Jewellery Designer, Pippa Small Vanity Fair: Inspiration from the acclaimed designer. vanityfair.com July 2020: What's New In Jewellery Tatler: This month, expect summery, everyday, and nature-inspired jewellery pieces—as well as some truly stunning engagement rings. asiatatler.com Your Guide To Wearing Men's Jewellery Right Tatler: With more