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Gem Empathy Award 2019

Call for Applicaitons: Gem Empathy Award Gem Empathy Award open to IJL visitors for the first time IJL and Gem-A launch the Gem Empathy competition 2019 and ask for jewellery designs for a unique and precious coral jewel IJL and Gem-A have announced the return of the Gem Empathy Award for 2019, which gives IJL 2019 exhibitors and visitors the chance to win a precious and sustainable coral cabochon for their bespoke jewellery design. The long-standing Gem Empathy Award – organised by Gem-A (Gemmological Association of Great Britain) and hosted by IJL – gives exhibitors and, for the first time,

Gem Empathy Award Returns for IJL 2018 with Dazzling Gemstone Prize

Gem-A’s Gem Empathy Award, which gives IJL 2018 exhibitors the chance to win a spectacular, fancy-cut gemstone by world-renowned cutter, John Dyer for a bespoke jewellery design returns for 2018. In a change to previous years, the long-standing Gem Empathy Award - organised by Gem-A and hosted by IJL – will welcome entries from the entire breadth of IJL 2018 exhibitors, not just Design Gallery exhibitors. All those who enter the competition, whether an established brand or emerging designer, will have the opportunity to win a sensational 18.28 carat ametrine gemstone from Bolivia, which has been hand-cut by master gem-cutter,

Susan Blackler Wins 2016 Gem Empathy Award

Gem-A have announced that Susan Blackler, of Sonkai Ltd., is the winner of Gem-A's newly-revamped Gem Empathy Award 2016, with her design titled ‘Supernova’. In previous years the award has been presented to the IJL exhibitor displaying, in the opinion of the judges, a single piece or collection of jewellery that makes captivating use of one or more gemstones. This year, however, Gem-A has remodelled the creative initiative, requesting that designers featured in the Design Gallery at IJL, produce a design based around a breathtaking 10.46ct Fantasy Cut heliodor (also known as golden beryl), sourced from award-winning gem cutter JohnDyer.  

Gemfields confirmed as sponsors of the 2016 Gem-A Conference and Graduation Ceremony

Gem-A (The Gemmological Association of Great Britain) has announced that leading supplier of responsibly sourced coloured gemstones, Gemfields, has signed up as Silver Sponsor of the Gem-A Conference and as exclusive Ruby Sponsor of Gem-A’s annual Graduation Ceremony and Presentation of Awards — a prestigious new sponsorship package created exclusively for the London-based company.  Gemfields, who also own Fabergé, is one of the world’s largest producers of coloured gemstones including emeralds and amethysts from Zambia and rubies from Mozambique. The company delivers a constant supply of professionally-graded, uncut coloured gemstones to world markets via their highly acclaimed auction platform, as

IJL launches #withyou campaign

International Jewellery London (IJL) has announced a new marketing campaign - #withyou – inspired by its industry leading initiatives and designed to showcase its continuing commitment to the UK and international jewellery sector. The #withyou campaign will build on IJL’s experience as the UK’s premier jewellery industry event, focusing on the many ways that the show supports emerging design talents, established brands and industry-wide awards and events. These include IJL’s Gem Empathy Award in partnership with Gem-A and its sponsorship of both the Goldsmith’s Craft & Design Council Awards and the UK Jewellery Awards. Sam Willoughby, IJL Event Director, explained, 

Gem-A Conference 2018

Gem-A (the Gemmological Association of Great Britain)  Conference 2018 County Hall, London 3 - 4 November 2018 World-Renowned Jewellery Artist, Wallace Chan, to Speak at Gem-A Conference 2018.The Hong Kong-based jewellery artist will showcase his innovations on the opening day of the Gem-A Conference in November. The Gem-A Conference 2018 will bring together the greatest minds in gemmology to celebrate 110 years of gemmology education. Alongside the opportunity to network with fellow gemmologists and leading experts in the field, guests will also have the chance to attend workshops, field trips and a very special celebratory dinner cruise aboard the Elizabethan: a replica

Gem-A Open Evening Event 2018

Gem-A Open Evening Event 2018 Gem-A welcome prospective students to first 2018 Open Evening event Gem-A is pleased to announce its first Open Evening of 2018, giving prospective students the chance to explore its historic London teaching centre. Tour our facilities, meet our tutors and learn something new. Have you always wanted to learn about gemmology but weren’t sure where to start? Gem-A are the oldest gem and jewellery educators in the world. We are based in London’s historic jewellery quarter and in January we are opening our doors for you to come along, meet the team and try some gemmology for yourself. Visitors are invited to attend

Gem-A Announce New Platinum Sponsors of 2016 Conference

Gem-A have announce that Jewelry Television have signed up as Platinum Sponsors of the 2016 Gem-A Conference.  One of the leading retailers of jewellery and gemstones in the United States, JTV have been instrumental in making gems household names in over 86 million American homes, cultivating a new market of gemstone lovers and buyers. JTV’s support of Gem-A reiterates a long friendship between the two associations which began in 2012. Alan Hart, Gem-A CEO, said of the partnership, “We are thrilled to have JTV on board as Platinum Sponsors again. Their support will enable us to bring quality international speakers

GIA Innovations at Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair

Following the successful debut of the Institute’s gem testing device at the JCK Las Vegas show in early June, GIA (Gemological Institute of America) will demonstrate and take pre-orders for the new instrument, the GIA iD100™, at the June 22-25 Hong Kong  Jewellery  & Gem Fair at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). GIA will present the M2M service and demonstrate the GIA iD100 in a seminar on Friday, June 23, in room S227 at the HKCEC from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The gem testing device will be on display and available for demonstrations in the GIA

Secrets of the Gem Trade

Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair 2020

Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre 25th - 28th July 2020 Asia’s leading mid-year jewellery event is refreshing its brand – Jewellery & Gem ASIA Hong Kong will be held from 25 to 28 June 2020 at Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) with an exciting line up of exhibitors and special events.  The refreshed visual identity reaffirms the show’s commitment to the jewellery world, and that is to connect and engage with the global jewellery community, inspire true partnership and celebrate the very best that the industry has to offer.  Occupying 70,000

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

Gübelin Gem Lab Announces Emerald Paternity Test

The Gübelin Gem Lab, one of the world’s leaders in the analysis of precious gemstones is has announced the launch of their Emerald Paternity Test; a new traceability technology creating independent proof of provenance for emeralds This new technology uses customised DNA-based nanoparticles enabling traceability of emeralds back to the exact place of mining. The Emerald Paternity Test is a true game-changer for the coloured gemstone industry. It is the first of a series of technologies and services developed by Gübelin Gem Lab dedicated to bringing more transparency into the gemstone industry, united under the Provenance Proof label. This breakthrough technology

Gem-A revives historic ties with Canadian Gemmological Association

 Gem-A (The Gemmological Association of Great Britain) has renewed its historic partnership with the Canadian Gemmological Association (CGA) to offer students and graduates at both institutions the very best in gemmological education. Taking inspiration from a previous agreement between the two associations, the new GemA and CGA educational partnership aims to create a stronger international community of gemmologists through access to a core syllabus; a shared body of information and learning that underpins both the CGA Certificate and Gem-A Diploma courses.  In practice, this will enable CGA students to achieve a region-specific Certificate qualification, while also providing the core competencies

Swarovski reboots new look Gem Visions for Spring Summer 2019

At a time of radical change in the jewellery world, Swarovski Gemstones, the go to brand for gemstones and created stones, transforms the format and focus of Gem Visions, its industry leading trend and design service. Gem Visions will now be presented twice yearly, each issue with a seasonal slant, so that the first new-look Gem Visions is targeted specifically on Spring/Summer 2019. The dynamically different design, and notebook layout, with a fresh, playful freedom, are intended to ignite innovation, stimulate imagination and capture the essence of the season’s theme: YES TO ALL. In the edition of Gem Visions Swarovski embrace and

Touchstone Award

Call for Applications: BHC Touchstone Award National Association of Jewellers and British Hallmarking Council announce new collaboration for 2019 The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) and British Hallmarking Council (BHC) are pleased to announce a new collaboration as the NAJ joins the four UK Assay Offices in supporting the prestigious BHC Touchstone Award. The award is presented annually to the Trading Standards teams who have delivered the most effective initiative relating to either the enforcement or awareness of hallmarking. In this era of high precious metal prices enforcement of hallmarking is extremely important. There is robust, long established hallmarking legislation

GIA Demonstrates Prototype Mounted Gem Testing Device

The GIA have announced their intention to introduce for sale later this year an easy-to-operate, sophisticated desktop instrument to reliably identify natural diamonds, separating them from all simulants and from diamonds that may be synthetic or treated.   The GIA mounted gem testing device combines advanced spectroscopic technology; GIA’s extensive research into the qualities of natural, treated and synthetic diamonds; and decades of diamond analysis experience to identify more than 97% of untreated natural mounted and un-mounted D-to-Z diamonds 0.9 mm or greater in diameter (approximately 0.005 carat). Diamonds that may be synthetic or treated and all simulants are referred

GIA Demonstrates Prototype Mounted Gem Testing Device

The GIA have announced their intention to introduce for sale later this year an easy-to-operate, sophisticated desktop instrument to reliably identify natural diamonds, separating them from all simulants and from diamonds that may be synthetic or treated.   The GIA mounted gem testing device combines advanced spectroscopic technology; GIA’s extensive research into the qualities of natural, treated and synthetic diamonds; and decades of diamond analysis experience to identify more than 97% of untreated natural mounted and un-mounted D-to-Z diamonds 0.9 mm or greater in diameter (approximately 0.005 carat). Diamonds that may be synthetic or treated and all simulants are referred

HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show 2020

Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show AsiaWorld Expo, Hong Kong 2 - 6 March 2020 The Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show , which specialises in loose stones and raw materials for jewellery, will run from 2 - 6 March 2020 at AsiaWorld-Expo, while the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show , which focuses on finished jewellery at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The twin shows will welcome more than 4,600 exhibitors from about 50 countries and regions, forming the world’s largest jewellery marketplace. The HKTDC collaborates with the Japan Pearl Exporters’ Association and

HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show 2019

Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show AsiaWorld Expo, Hong Kong 26 February to 2 March 2019 The sixth  Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show , which specialises in loose stones and raw materials for jewellery, will run from 26 Feb to 2 March 2019 at AsiaWorld-Expo, while the 36th  Hong Kong International Jewellery Show , which focuses on finished jewellery, will take place from 28 Feb to 4 March 2019 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The twin shows will welcome more than 4,600 exhibitors from about 50 countries and regions, forming the

Endangered Crafts Award 2019

Call for Applications: Endangered Crafts Award 2019 The Heritage Crafts Association (HCA) is offering an award of £1,000 for a proposal to help secure the survival of an endangered craft.   The Endangered Crafts Award, which is funded by the Marsh Christian Trust, is to recognise a practitioner of one of the 62 crafts currently listed in the Critically Endangered or Endangered categories of the HCA Red List of Endangered Crafts. The award was made for the first time in 2018 to Steve Tomlin (SteveTomlinCrafts.co.uk), a spoon carver, ash basketmaker and scything tutor. Steve applied to learn to make Devon stave

Endangered Craft Award 2017/18

Heritage Crafts Association launch the HCA/Marsh Endangered Craft Award 2017/18 The Heritage Crafts Association has launched a new Award of £1,000 with the kind support of Marsh Christian Trust. The HCA/Marsh Endangered Craft Award 2017/18 will be awarded to the proposal which in the opinion of the judges makes the best use of the funds to secure the survival of an Endangered or Critically Endangered Craft. The winner will be announced at the HCA’s annual conference “Crafts for the Future” on 24th March 2018 at the Royal Society of Medicine, London. For the purposes of the Award, eligible crafts are

Central Saint Martins’ graduate selected as a Bright Young Gem

Jeweller who hand carves gemstones, Isla Gilham, has been selected as one of IJL’s Bright Young Gems for 2019. Gilham graduated from Central Saint Martins in 2018 and has since set up her own workshop in Somerset where she has continued to create precious gem set pieces with playful twists. Jewellery has been described as “delicious, tempting and good enough to eat”. The work plays on this narrative. Isla hand carves ‘bites’ from an array of juicy and enticing gemstones and creates gold plated silverwork that also appears to have been tasted, scattered with crumbs and twisted in the haste

Call for Applications: Inhorgenta Award

For the first time ever, Messe München will confer the Inhorgenta Award in six categories at Inhorgenta Munich 2017. This distinction is intended as a reward for special products and services of the jewellery and watch industry. As of now, applications for the award can be filed and tickets for the festive gala be bought via the new website www.inhorgenta-award.com. The presentation of the Inhorgenta Award will happen on 19 February at the Postpalast in Munich and will be the highlight of Inhorgenta Munich. Categories Messe München confers this distinction for special products and services of the jewellery and watch

Princess Royal Training Award

Call for Applications: Princess Royal Training Award Applying for a Princess Royal Training Award will provide you with the opportunity to reflect on what you have achieved through your investment in training. The awards are free to enter and are open to organisations of all sizes, and from all sectors in the UK. Entrants will receive tailored support throughout the application process.  Apply now Applications are open from 02 January – 29 March 2018 . A prestigious awards ceremony to celebrate those who receive the award will take place in the autumn. The Awards provide you with one-to-one support through

Red Dot Award 2019

Call for Entries: Red Dot Award 2019 from designers and manufacturers worldwide The Red Dot Award: Product Design 2019 starting signal will be given on 15 October 2018. Designers and companies from around the world then have until 1 February 2019 to submit products from all areas of daily life for a chance to win an award at one of the world’s largest design competitions. The first of the three registration phases, which allows participants to benefit from a discounted registration fee, ends on 9 November. 48 different product categories From everyday to unusual, participants can this year choose between

Lexus Design Award 2018

Call for Applications: Lexus Design Award 2019 Lexus Design Award 2019 calls upon young creative talent around the world to “Design for a Better Tomorrow”. Since 2013, this international design competition has provided the chance of a lifetime for up-and-coming designers to win the prestigious award for innovative design excellence, propel their growth, and reach world-class exposure. Mentoring. Funding. Exhibit at Milan. As a finalist, you will be provided everything needed to take your design to the next level and present it at one of the world’s premier design events. • Receive mentorship from worldly renowned design professionals. Past years

The Arts & Crafts Design Award

The Arts & Crafts Design Award is an international, annual competition for all nominated artisans, craftspeople and designers. The primary aim of the award is to honour and support the best ideas and concepts and recognise its excellent realization. Call for Applications We sincerely invite all non-nominated Artisans, Craftspeople and Designers to apply for Nomination to get the opportunity to participate at this international prestigious Arts & Crafts Design Award 2017! Only as a selected Nominee you are able to take part at this Competition at all ! Eligibility The contest is open for all nominated professional, amateur and student

Secrets of the Gem Trade: The Connoisseur's Guide to Precious Gemstones

Mead Final Project Award

Call for Applications: Mead Final Project Award Are you a UAL undergraduate student in your final year? Do you need financial help to achieve your final major project? The Mead Final Project Award offers between £200 to £2,500 to help students who need extra funds to complete their final major project. Applications are now open. To read about past awardees, and to apply, please see the Mead Awards website . Applications deadline: Monday 26th November. For more information www.arts.ac.uk

ERA5050 wins an award

On 1st March, stars of theatre gathered at the Prince of Wales Theatre in London’s West End for the 20th annual What’sOnStage Awards, broadcast live on BBC Radio 2. During the event, the Equity Award for Services to Theatre was awarded to ERA5050, a movement that campaigns to see women represented on screen, in television and in theatre in equal numbers to men. On 1st March, stars of theatre gathered at the Prince of Wales Theatre in London’s West End for the 20th annual What’sOnStage Awards, broadcast live on BBC Radio 2. During the event, the Equity Award for Services

The SOLO Award 2018

Call for Applications: The SOLO Award™ 2018 The SOLO Award™ is an annual contemporary art prize open to artists of all ages, working in all media. The finalists are exhibited in a group show each spring and the overall winner receives a cash prize and a solo exhibition at the London Art Fair each January. The SOLO Award is an entirely not-for-profit project, now in its 7th year. Aimed at supporting the careers of emerging and mid-career artists, the award broadens audiences by presenting the winners' ambitious and creatively risk-taking solo projects within the established commercial context of the London Art

Gioielli In Fermento Award 2019

Call for Entries: Gioielli In Fermento 2019 Award Student Award Undergraduate and Below - Learning Section Eligibility - For students attending secondary art schools, craft schools or first level in any course of studies of art, jewellery design, gold / metalsmithing, or related disciplines (student attendance to be confirmed by teacher / school and sent with submission).  Applicants must not have taken part in previous editions of Gioielli in Fermento – professional section. Entry can be a design dossier (sketches, drawings, cad, prototypes) and or a finished workpiece – interpretation free or inspired to the annual theme (according to the

Arts & Crafts Design Award 2018

Call for Applications: Arts & Crafts Design Award 2017 The Arts & Crafts Design Award is an international, annual competition for all nominated artisans, craftspeople and designers. The primary aim of the award is to honor and support the best ideas and concepts and recognize its excellent realization. International Competition The contest is open for all nominated professional, amateur and student craftspeople and designers from any country. The Award is not divided in different categories; rather it covers all Arts and Crafts-ideas and design concepts. Nominees To be nominated for the Arts & Crafts Design Award is a great achievement

The Guild of Enamellers Bursary Award 2020

Call For Applications: The Guild of Enamellers Bursary Award 2020 Applications are invited for The Guild of Enamellers Bursary Award (2020).  This prestigious award, which is now attracting record numbers of applicants, has a generous prize fund and is a wonderful opportunity for new enamellers to showcase their enamelling skills. Deadline for applications is 31st  July 2019.  All applications are made digitally through the Guild of Enamellers’ website, where full details, and terms and conditions are available. www.guildofenamellers.org Due to the generosity of our sponsors, the Award winner will have a free place at the Guild of Enamellers Conference in

The Arts & Crafts Design Award 2018

Call for Applications: The Arts & Crafts Design Award 2018 The Arts & Crafts Design Award is an international, annual competition for all nominated artisans, craftspeople and designers. The primary aim of the award is to honour and support the best ideas and concepts and recognise its excellent realization. Applications are now open to all non-nominated Artisans, Craftspeople and Designers to apply for Nomination to get the opportunity to participate at this international prestigious Arts & Crafts Design Award 2018. Please note - only as a selected Nominee you are able to take part at this Competition. Eligibility The contest is

Design in Silver Award 2021

Call for Applications: Design in Silver Award 2021 Contemporary British Silversmiths have been fortunate enough to offer an annual ‘Design in Silver Award’ to silversmithing graduates for many years.  This is thanks to a very generous and long standing patron who is keen to support graduates on their journey of progressing their career in contemporary silversmithing. The prize comprises up to £1,000 which is to be spent on a specialist course offered by one of our senior members and three years free graduate membership.  The money can be used towards the course, materials, travel and accommodation as required.  Previous winners

Amberif Design Award 2018

Call for Applications: Amberif Design Award 2018 22nd Editoion of the International Competition for the Amber Jewellery Design For more than 20 years now, the AMBERIF International Fair of Amber, Jewellery and Gemstones invites artists and designers from all over the world to spend some time with a piece of amber and present their interpretation of a competition motto, to stop and think a while and perhaps experience a moment of supreme creativity. The competition’s theme this year is: Serendipity  the accidental observation of something occasionally leads to surprising discoveries.  For designers, a space for intuition and subjective expression opens

International Jewellery Design Excellence Award 2019 (IJDE Award) 2019

Call for Applications: International Jewellery Design Excellence Award 2019 (IJDE Award) To honour creative and outstanding jewellery designers from all over the world, the IJDE Award provides a platform for international jewellery designers to exchange experience and compete for the highest honour “Champion of the Champions”. In 2017, this biennial event attracted 165 champions of world’s leading jewellery design competitions from 27 countries and regions.  Trophy of “Champion of the Champions” Who can apply? Jewellery designers who have won the championship of any jewellery design competitions worldwide whose result was/will be officially announced between 1 December 2016 and 17 November

The Guild of Enamellers 2018 Bursary Award

Call for Applications: The Guild of Enamellers 2018 Bursary Award This prestigious award, which is now attracting record numbers of applicants, has a prize fund worth more than £1000 and is a wonderful opportunity for new enamellers to showcase their enamelling skills. Prizes Due to the generosity of our sponsors, the Award winner will have a free place at the Guild of Enamellers Conference in April 2018 (sponsored by WG Ball Ltd.) with the opportunity to exhibit their work and enter for a range of awards.  The prize fund also includes  free editorial and promotion in craft&design online and the

Jobbing Jeweller - Goldsmith / Jeweller, Antique Jewel and Gem Company - Hatton Garden, London

The Role Jobbing Jeweller - Goldsmith / Jeweller Antique Jewel & Gem Company Ltd Hatton Garden, London We have a new job opportunity for a Jobbing Jeweller, must be experienced in some setting work, mounting and repairs (experience in antique jewellery would be a major advantage). We are looking for someone with a positive attitude and a very much 'can-do' approach. The job is five days a week, with some Saturday work required for the role. We are based in Hatton Garden and our office hours are 9am-6pm. We are a small but busy workshop and for the right applicant,

The Guild of Enamellers 10th Anniversary Bursary Award 2019

Call For Applications: The Guild of Enamellers 10th Anniversary Bursary Award 2019 Applications are invited for The Guild of Enamellers 10th Anniversary Bursary Award 2019. This prestigious award, which is now attracting record numbers of applicants, has a generous prize fund and is a wonderful opportunity for new enamellers to showcase their enamelling skills. Due to the generosity of our sponsors, the Award winner will have a free place at the Guild of Enamellers Conference in April 2019 (sponsored by WG Ball Ltd.) with the opportunity to exhibit their work and enter for a range of awards. The prize fund

The Cockpit Arts / Arts Society Award 2019

Call for Applications: The Cockpit Arts / Arts Society Award 2019 Cockpit Arts have announced that the Arts Society Award at Cockpit Arts is now open for applications. The Cockpit Arts / Arts Society Award comprises of business support provided by Cockpit Arts as well as subsidised studio space for one year. Applications are invited for the Award which aim to support professional craftspeople working with traditional craft skills. Particular consideration will be given to crafts requiring skills at risk of dying out. The Award is worth £3,000 towards a studio at either Cockpit Arts site, to be supplemented with £1.650

Call for Applications: Red Dot Award

Call for Applications: Red Dot Award Product Design 2018 – Designers and manufacturers are now invited to submit their products    The Red Dot Award: Product Design is entering the next phase: From 9 October 2017, designers and manufacturers from all over the world can once again take the opportunity to submit their products to one of the world’s largest design competitions. The registration period breaks down into three different phases: “Early Bird” from 9 October to 28 November 2017, “Regular” from 29 November 2017 to 16 January 2018 and “Latecomer” from 17 January to 9 February 2018. Diversity from every

Gemfields Recognised With The Chopard GCC Award

Caroline Scheufele, Co-President and Creative Director of Swiss luxury jewellery and watch company Chopard, launched The Chopard Green Carpet Collection Award in Cannes last week. Mining organisations that have played a key role in  Chopard’s  Green Carpet Collections were present at the events. Livia and Colin Firth, together with Caroline  Scheufele , took this opportunity to honour  Chopard’s  strategic suppliers who all share the same social and environmental values, awarding them the  Chopard  GCC Award for Commitment to Sustainability and Social Justice.  The awardees were: Gemfields ,  Kagem  mine , Zambia Lucara ,  Karowe  mine , Botswana Aurora Gems Pty

Museum Contest Schoonhoven Silver Award 2018

Call for Application: Museum Contest Schoonhoven Silver Award 2018 The Schoonhoven Silver Award is an initiative of the ‘Stichting Zilverkunst’ (Silver Art Foundation). Since its inception in 2001 the Award has had six winners: Oliver Schmidt, Germany (2002), Monika Gimborn-Jochum, Germany (2004), Jan Matthesius, The Netherlands (2006) Hiroshi Suzuki, UK / Japan (2009), Stratos Kantzelis/ Greece (2012), Yuki Ferndinadsen Japan/ Denmark (2015) In 2010 the organisation of the award was transferred to the Nederlands Zilvermuseum in Schoonhoven and the competition has since taken place under the museum’s auspices. The Award’s most recent editions have been dedicated to promoting contemporary ‘great,

Call for Entries: A' International Design Award & Competition

Call for Entries: A' Design Award & Competition A’ Design Award & Competition is the world’s leading international annual juried competition for design. The A’ Design Accolades are organized in a wide range of creative fields to highlight the very best designers from all countries in all disciplines. Entries to the competition are peer-reviewed and anonymously judged by an influential jury panel of experienced academics, prominent press members and established professionals. A’ Design Award & Competition promises fame, prestige, publicity and international recognition to all A’ Design Award Winners through the A’ Design Prize which is given to celebrate the

British Ceramics Biennial’s Award 2019

Call for Applications: British Ceramics Biennial’s Award Prize doubled to £10,000 in celebration of BCB’s 10 anniversary The British Ceramics Biennial (BCB) announces the call for entries for AWARD, inviting UK-based artists to submit proposals for this £10,000 prize and exhibition. AWARD is the headline exhibition in BCB, which celebrates its 10 anniversary in 2019 and provides a platform for some of the UK’s most talented artists working in clay. The next BCB festival will take place in Stoke-on-Trent from 28 September to 10 November 2019. Up to 10 artists will be selected for AWARD, each receiving a grant of

The Goldsmiths’ Company 2017 Studio Internship Graduate Award

SIGA The Goldsmiths’ Company 2017 Studio Internship Graduate Award         About the Award A Goldsmiths’ Company award open to two graduates (within 5 years of graduation) to support the next generation of silversmiths. The award offers the opportunity to train with the country’s leading silversmiths for 16 weeks (which can be undertaken on a part time basis) before creating an exhibition of work at the Goldsmiths’ Centre. On completion, a certificate will be awarded at a special ceremony at Goldsmiths’ Hall. Funding for Each Graduate Includes A maintenance living grant of £210 per week for a total of 16 weeks.

Messe München Launches Inhorgenta Award for 2017

Messe München will present a new highlight in the coming year: the INHORGENTA Award. This distinction is to be awarded in recognition of special products and services of the jewelry and watch industry. The award will be conferred in six different categories. A top-class independent jury will select the respective winners. At the forthcoming trade show taking place from February 18 to 21, 2017, INHORGENTA MUNICH will celebrate a premiere with the presentation of the INHORGENTA Award. “In nearly every sector, there is a prize in recognition of outstanding products and services. Until now, such a recognition has been missing

Award Bursaries British Allied Trades Federation (BATF)

Call for Applications: Award Bursaries British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) Benevolent Society, charity of the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) Following A Hugely Successful Pilot Scheme, The Benevolent Society Are Awarding Further Bursaries For 2018 About the Award Bursaries In 2016 the Benevolent Society, charity of the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF), changed its constitution to allow the charity to award bursaries to help individuals enter the industries that fall under the BATF umbrella. This has enabled the Benevolent Society to assist not only those at the end of their careers but individuals who are embarking on careers in the

The Red Dot Award Product Design 2019

Call for Applciations: The Red Dot Award - Product Design 2019 Calling all up-and-coming designers: The Red Dot Award: Product Design 2019 is giving away 50 free registration places for the Young Professionals Application Day. On 5 December 2018, all designers who have graduated within the past five years are cordially invited to apply for one of these places. They can enter their product in the competition, which will feature designers and brands from all over the globe. Young professionals who win an award can look forward to further support from Red Dot, with measures that include showcasing their products

Lily Blanche wins Business Women Scotland Award

Stirling-based jewellery company Wow (Scotland) Ltd has triumphed in the main Scottish awards for female entrepreneurs. The company, which trades under the name Lily Blanche, won the award for best use of social media in the BWSWES Awards run jointly by Business Women Scotland and Women’s Enterprise Scotland. Founder Gillian Crawford was presented with the award by the Financial Times’ Miss Moneypenny and Dean of the Edinburgh Business School, Professor Heather McGregor. The company won the award for its Facebook campaign Lin’s Locket, which promoted the Lily Blanche Memory Keeper Locket. This innovative locket opens to reveal six secret photographs

Merci Maman Awarded Prestigious Queen's Award for Enterprise

Second royal seal of approval for London-based French mumpreneur. The personalised jewellery brand – worn by the Duchess of Cambridge – receives the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category. Merci Maman, the personalised jewellery company founded by a London mum from her kitchen table, has been awarded the prestigious Queen's Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category and its founder will receive the award from the Queen at a Buckingham Palace Reception. Merci Maman was founded by mother of four Béatrice de Montille in Fulham, London, in 2007. She now works with a team of 22

Call for Applications: Guild of Enamellers Bursary Award

Applications are invited for The Guild of Enamellers 2017 Bursary Award. This prestigious award, which is now attracting record numbers of applicants, has a prize fund worth more than £1000 and is a wonderful opportunity for new enamellers to showcase their enamelling skills. Due to the generosity of sponsors, the Award winner will have a free place at the Guild of Enamellers Conference in April 2017 (sponsored by WG Ball Ltd.) with the opportunity to exhibit their work and enter for a range of awards. The prize fund also includes: a free editorial in ‘craft&design’ magazine, a free editorial the Guild’s journal and

Open Contemporary Young Artist Award, The Biscuit Factory

Open Contemporary Young Artist Award, The Biscuit Factory The Biscuit Factory is delighted to present a national open call for young artists working across various mediums. The Open Contemporary Young Artist Award is an opportunity for artists 35 years old or younger working in the UK today to submit work to be included in an exhibition at The Biscuit Factory Gallery in Newcastle upon Tyne. Open to established and emerging artists that are 35 years old or younger, The Open Contemporary Young Artist Award will profile the successful entrants and raise awareness of mixed contemporary art practices. The Biscuit Factory

Creative Development Award 2019/20, Association for Contemporary Jewellery

Call for Applications: Creative Development Award Association for Contemporary Jewellery This is an exciting opportunity for an ACJ group or member to apply for an award of up to £500 to assist an in individual or group to enable them to undertake a form of creative development. This could be for any activity or event which will help to enhance your creative practice. The deadline to apply for the ACJ's Creative Development Awards is fast approaching with less than 2 weeks left to get your applications in. Deadline 15th September. These are also available in ‘Grants for Groups’ in the member

Call for Applications: Mari Funaki Award for Contemporary Jewellery

Mari Funaki Award for Contemporary Jewellery Gallery Funaki, a driving force in the promotion of contemporary jewellery in Australia for over 20 years, invites jewellery artists worldwide, at all stages of their practice, to participate in the 2018 Mari Funaki Award for Contemporary Jewellery. An internationally lauded contemporary jeweller and object maker, Mari Funaki was instrumental in establishing Melbourne’s reputation as a strong centre for contemporary jewellery, founding Gallery Funaki in 1995. An internationally lauded contemporary jeweller and object maker, Mari Funaki was instrumental in establishing Melbourne’s reputation as a strong centre for contemporary jewellery, founding Gallery Funaki in 1995.

Richard Seager Arts Award Commission 2018

Richard Seager Arts Award Commission 2018 In 2018, Butterfly Conservation will celebrate their 50th anniversary as the national charity dedicated to the conservation of butterflies and moths. As part of events being held to celebrate this milestone, the Richard Seager Annual Arts Award is delighted that Butterfly Conservation has agreed to be the recipient of the 2018 commission. This is a charity which Richard Seager supported for many years, and would also have marked his 100th birthday – an event he would be very annoyed to have missed. Butterfly Conservation has decided that the most appropriate commission would be a

Amberif Design Award 2018 Announce Winners

Silvia Bella of Germany, Kairi Sirendi of Estonia and Miron Kutarba of Poland have been announced as the winners of the 2018 edition of the Amberif Design Award, the 22 nd  International Amber Jewellery Design Competition. The theme of  Serendipity  encouraged participation from 100 artists who submitted 127 entries. Amberif Design Award is one of Poland’s most important design competitions of international renown. This year, ADA’s curator Barbara Schmidt of the Academy of Art and Design, Munich, has set the theme of  Serendipity  to encourage a reflection on how the interplay between nature, technique and intuition can take us far beyond our reason,

Hailstones Designs boosted by LUX Global Excellence Award

Since winning a LUX Global Excellence Award for the Best Glass Jewellery Designer in the UK back in January, life for Staffordshire-based Sue Hailstones of Hailstones Designs has been turned upside down. To say the win has served as a confidence booster is an understatement. A former local government officer with no formal training in jewellery making, Hailstone has never really considered herself one of 'the designer gang'. The success of her glass design business, set up in 2013, seems to have come as a bit of a surprise to her though she has always been artistic, she says, as

Call for Applications: Amberif Design Award 2017

The 21st International Amber Jewellery Design Competition The International Competition for the Design of Jewellery with Amber About the Amberif Design Competition and Award 2017 For more than 20 years the Amberif Fair has invited artists and designers from all over the world to contribute their interpretations on the given subjects within the competition. An impressive group of international renowned artists have previously taken part and surprised and convinced with their work by using amber in an unseen way. The goal and the objective of the Competition is to promote amber as a source of artistic expression. The competition´s aim is

Arabel Lebrusan Shortlisted for E-Tailer of the Year Award

Award winning Arabel Lebrusan has been shortlisted for the E-Tailer category in The National Association of Jewellers Awards 2016. The winners will be announced as part of the Benevolent Society ball which will take place on 1st December. Lebrusan has been committed to designing and making beautiful ethical jewellery for the last decade. Using her Spanish roots as a starting point, she started using the ancient technique of filigree to create stunning contemporary designs. Lebrusan really thrives on the challenge of combining the old with the new, driven by her interest in a sustainable approach to life. Lebrusan started creating contemporary

Ralph Lauren to be Honoured with Outstanding Achievement Award

The British Fashion Council have announced that Ralph Lauren will receive the Outstanding Achievement Award in Fashion at The Fashion Awards 2016 in partnership with Swarovski. The designer will be honoured for his invaluable contribution to the fashion industry on Monday 5th December at the Royal Albert Hall in London. Over the past 50 years, Ralph Lauren and his iconic brand have helped shape and define the American fashion identity in a unique and resonant way. Through his tireless commitment to design, innovation, business and philanthropy, Ralph Lauren has established himself as a pillar of the global fashion community. Ralph

James Handyside Wins Young Apprentice of the Year Award

HRH  The  Princess Royal, President of the City and Guilds of London Institute, presented the latest  Goldsmiths’ Company Members’ Charitable Fund Young Apprentice of the Year Award ,   which  recognises  excellence in vocational skills and career progression, to former Goldsmiths’ Company apprentice, James  Handyside. Prime Warden of the Goldsmiths’ Company, Judith  Cobham -Lowe, congratulated James at the presentation, part of the Prince Philip Medal Awards Ceremony at St James’s Palace. In 2013 James undertook a three year apprenticeship with leading  Hatton Garden engravers  R.H. Wilkins,   specialising  in hand engraving.   Trained by Master Engraver, Emmet Smith, James learned

Top Ten Announced for EC One Unsigned Award

EC One have announced the 'Top Ten' for their Unsigned Award 2016 Following a huge increase on last year’s applications, the EC One team narrowed entrants down to a shortlist of ten excellent contestants, who are now in the running to be in the Final Four. Three contestants will now be nominated by a public vote on the EC One website , and EC One will select a ‘Wild Card’ who will complete the Final Four. The public vote will be open until midnight Wednesday 31 August, where anybody can vote for their favourite. The Final Four will be announced

Guild of Enamellers’ Names Bursary Award Winner for 2019

The Guild of Enamellers is delighted to announce Valentina Boneva as the 2019 winner of their annual Bursary Award. Valentina recently completed the HND Jewellery at Glasgow Kelvin College, Glasgow. Valentina started working with enamels this year as a means to add colour to her work and to complement the use of gemstones in pieces. Valentina’s innovative selection pieces were complex and transformable pieces comprising an etched and enamelled boat “stand” that deconstructed into earrings, necklaces and a ring. Valentina is passionate about enamelling and wants to incorporate it into her future jewellery and silversmithing projects where it will complement

Mari Funaki Award Announce 2018 Winners

Benedikt Fischer, has been announced as the winner of the 2018 Mari Funaki Award for Contemporary Jewellery in the Established category for his series of five Pearly Whites brooches, made from shell, mother of pearl, remanium and sculpey. Benedikt receives A$8000 (£4,379.78) and his work will enter the collection of the National Gallery of Victoria (subject to approval of the Board of Trustees). The judges said of this work: "What stands out in these pieces is the freshness and humour, as well as the incredible material resolution and skill. It’s difficult to work with shell and create something that isn’t

Benchpeg Award Winner: Design for Manufacture

Benchpeg Awards 2016 Winner: Victoria Barker This category invited entries to the competition which used either technology or hand craft skills to manufacture and create a high quality finished piece taking into account construction processes. Judges took into consideration methodology of production, ease of manufacture and how the design would best translate when placed into production. Victoria submitted a range of 2D CAD designs which the judges looked upon with merit when looking at the deigns of the pieces entered and the consideration given by the designer to production methods. Victoria says of her inspiration and designs, “The somatic senses are

Heritage Crafts Award Winners Announced

The last remaining professional fore-edge painter  Martin Frost  has been awarded Maker of the Year by the Heritage Crafts Association at its Textures of Craft conference on 6 th  May. Fore-edge painting is one of the seventeen critically endangered crafts identified by the HCA. Martin took up the craft of vanishing fore-edge painting in 1970, continuing an English tradition that dates back to the 17 th  century. Since then he has produced over 3,300 edge-paintings, many on carefully restored antique books.  His commitment to the craft as an artist and untiring efforts to raise its profile have won him respect

Isabella Liu wins IJL Editor’s Choice Award for Creative Originality

London based  designer Isabella Liu won the International Jewellery London (IJL) Editor’s Choice award for Creative Originality.   Claire Adler, a luxury communications consultant, and Sam Willoughby, the IJL Event Director, selected the awards this month. T he Creative Originality award  is presented to  the brand or designer that impressed the judges with true originality in terms of design, innovative use of materials or striking colour combinations. Isabella Liu was born in China and is now based in London. She founded her own studio in 2014 and is an award winning jewellery designer and artist whose w orks have been

Brilliant Effects: A Cultural History of Gem Stones and Jewellery (Published for the Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art)

Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Council Award Winners Retrospective Exhibition

The Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Council 2017 Award Winners Retrospective The Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Council is the flagship organisation for the precious metal industry. Each year the Council hosts a unique national competition attracting over 600 entries from exceptionally talented and skilled UK based designers and craftsmen. This showcase at the Goldsmiths’ Centre celebrates award-winning work ranging from innovative, yet intricate hand-crafted jewellery to tableware and objet d’art – all entered as part of GC&DC’s 2017 competition. Plus, a unique first, a feature and showcase of Cartier jewellery to celebrate 60 years of partnership with GC&DC. Dates 17 January -

Call for Applications: Product Design 2017, Red Dot Award

50 free registration places for upcoming designers     Product Design 2017 Red Dot Award Designers and manufacturers can currently register their products for the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2017. “Young Professionals Application Day” provides an opportunity for upcoming designers to also take part in the competition. 50 Free Registration Places On 7 December 2016, trained designers who have graduated within the past five years have the chance to apply for one of a total of 50 free registration places. The international design competition thus gives an opportunity to those starting out on their career to prove their abilities and

Award-winning designer of eco-friendly jewellery moves to Birmingham

Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter welcomes an award-winning designer of eco-friendly jewellery into residence.  Today Elizabeth Anne Norris of EAN Jewellery, will move into the Jewellery Quarter and join other residents in the newly converted 19th-century building, home to world-class jewellery-makers since the early 1900s.  The Jewellery Quarter is Europe's largest hub of businesses involved in the jewellery trade, which produces 40% of all the jewellery made in the UK.  With a highly-regarded reputation, the Jewellery Quarter is a big tourist attraction and people can visit Elizabeth to buy her collections, as well as to attend contemporary jewellery-making workshops, or to

Seeing Elegance in the Everyday - Kinley Jewellery's Award Winning Grid Collection

Kinley Jewellery is the brain-child of jeweller Laura Williams. Meeting her at New Desiners, she spoke with us about the unique inspiration for her award-winning 'Grid' collection.  The collection's motif is wire pushed through a grid, cut to different lengths to create a ripple effect on the surface. At first glace, one could easily mistake the makers' inspiration for a pin-art board, but upon speaking with Laura, we were surpised to learn the collection's inspiration was a little closer to home- stickle bricks! Laura expertly negotiates the fine line between a jeuvenile stimuli and Kinley's mature style, which are seemingly

Alexander Wood receives the Goldsmiths’ Company Apprentice of the Year Award

First granted in 2015, this prestigious annual award celebrates excellence in skill, attitude and commitment. This year Alex was nominated not only for his exceptional performance since starting his training as a diamond mounting apprentice, but also to recognise the support he has received from his former Master, Nathaniel Groves. Selected by the Goldsmiths’ Company Apprenticeship team and his fellow Apprentices, it was acknowledged that Alex - who is a former Goldsmiths’ Centre Foundation Programme trainee now working for E C Wolfe - had proven his exceptional capability throughout his four-year diamond-mounting apprenticeship with Nathaniel Groves. In particular, Alex was

Actinia by Raluca Buzura wins the Gold International Design Award

The Spanish porcelain brand obtains international recognition for its latest jewellery collection created by the renowned Romanian designer  As part of the International Design Awards 2020 (IDA), Lladró was the recipient of the Gold Award in the Jewelry category for its Actinia collection created by Romanian designer Raluca Buzura. Actinia is a series of seven dazzlingly beautiful pieces that submerge us in Raluca’s fascinating imagination and concentrate on the true essence of luxury while at once defending the magic of underwater life. Now in its 14th year, the International Design Awards 2020 have been the most successful in its history.

Generation to Generation: Recent Graduates complete Mentorship with Award Winning Goldsmiths

Eight recent jewellery and silversmithing graduates have taken their first steps towards establishing promising careers by completing a pilot mentoring scheme with award winning members of the Institute of Professional Goldsmiths, made possible by a grant provided by the Goldsmiths' Centre.  Graduate silversmiths Danniella Wilde, Anna Peake, Will Romeril, Abigail Marsh and Jayne Rimington; as well as jewellery designer makers Hannah Viner and Louisa Warren were given time and advice by each of their experienced mentors, helping them to enhance their skills and expand their knowledge.  Over the eight months they gained confidence and deepened their understanding of useful technical

Katy Tromans wins Artistar Jewels 2018 Award at Milan Fashion Week

Last month the winners of the fifth edition of Artistar Jewels were announced in Milan, Italy, where 2016 Birmingham School of Jewellery graduate Katy Tromans picked up an international award for her  amazing standards of detail. Artistar Jewels is an international competition dedicated to promotion of contemporary jewellery culture culminating in an awards ceremony and exhibition. The event took place in Palazzo dei Giureconsulti, Milan, Italy, a historical palace overlooing the Duomo Square, and hosted 450 creations from an array of international jewellery artists and designers. Entries on show at the Artistar Jewels 2018 exhibition in Milan, Italy Artistar Jewels 2018 was

Winners of the Goldsmiths' Fair Best New Design Award Week 1 & 2

The winners of Goldsmiths’ Fair Best New Design Award for Week One and Week Two have been announced during the event’s run in the last two weeks. This year’s Week One winner was chosen by Victoria Broackes, senior curator for the department of theatre and performance at the Victoria and Albert Museum. Vicky chose Hazel Thorn as the winner, for her latest collection of work. Hazel uses a combination of base and precious metals, constructing metal sheets which she transforms into sculptural vessels. Hazel then applies the same chemical patination to the whole object which affects the mixed metals in

Nicholas Wylde wins UK Jewellery Award for best Marketing Campaign

The annual UK Jewellery Awards was this year held at The Artillery Garden in July and brought together those members of industry involved in jewellery retail. Compared by TV Presenter Gethin Jones, the awards evening celebrated the past year’s achievements of jewellers on the high street. Nicholas Wylde and his team were recognised for their promotional activities, which celebrated founder Nicholas’ 30 years in business, by the presentation of Best Marketing Campaign Award. Promoting not only their own business, Bath’s Wylde Treasure Hunt brought the Bath high street and over 30 indie shops together, promoting the Bath shopping experience and

Red Dot Award: Best Product Designs 2017 Announced

Manufacturers and designers from 54 countries entered their current product innovations in the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2017. 39 experts from all over the world convened in Essen to assess each individual object live and in situ in a process spanning several days. Only designs that won over the jury with their high design quality were awarded the sought-after Red Dot. The distinctive winners’ label will decorate the best products of the year with immediate effect. In the areas of bathrooms and personal care, consumer electronics, kitchen appliances and furniture, design as a distinctive feature is playing an ever-increasing role.

Week One New Designers Award Winners Announced

Bursting with ambition and radical ideas, New Designers 2019 unveils incredible new talent set to shape the design world of tomorrow. Over two weeks, and spanning every discipline in modern making, the event presents the work of more than 3,000 hand-picked design talents. Visitors to the show will discover disruptive new thinking, meet the pacesetters, and get a first look at our creative future. The New Designers Awards brings together 1,500 handpicked designers in areas including textiles, fashion and costume, ceramics, contemporary design craft, and jewellery. Awards are presented to those with the most creative and forward-thinking work. Winners are

Benchpeg Award Winner: Design for Creativity, Innovation or Disruption

Benchpeg Awards 2016 Winner: Shuming Chen Monitoring in the Dark Collection This category invited entries which displayed design and or creativity in a disruptive manner to create a piece which is completely unique. Judges considered all the entries and favoured those which displayed thinking outside of the box – those entries which displayed the most unconventional jewellery design. In their selection the judges really wanted to question the very nature of the meaning of jewellery and how it could project the best representation of future British jewellery design. Shuming’s methodology of working attempts to combine daily life with the science technology

Benchpeg Award Winner: Design for Commercial Sales

Benchpeg Awards 2016 Winner: Ching-I Chien Allure Spiked Drop Earrings This category invited entries to the competition which had been designed specifically to have price points for commercial markets and be produced in batch production or mass manufacture. Judges looked at the most economical way of manufacturing the submitted piece, and also considered the design aesthetic which best fitted into a current trend. The judges were also mindful of selecting the design that best represented a commercial impact in todays’ retail market. Ching-I’s inspiration for her submitted piece came from snakes and gemstones. She says of her design, "Playing with the

Goldsmiths’ Company’s Studio Internship Graduate Award

The Goldsmiths’ Company's Studio Internship Graduate Award ( SIGA ), open to recent graduates - within five years of graduation - aims to enhance the skills of the next generation of silversmiths.  Recipients are given the opportunity to train with the country’s leading silversmiths and receive funding to exhibit new work at a Goldsmiths’ Centre group show from 5-12 September 2017. The current SIGA recipients are Patrick Davison, Hamish Dobbie, Errin Quinn and Dominic Simon. There are two parts to SIGA training - eight weeks honing general silversmithing skills with a renowned silversmith, followed by eight weeks learning a particular skill with an industry specialist.

Announced: Enjoia’t Award Winners 2016

On 30th of September the awards ceremony and party of Enjoia’t 2016 organized by Artists and Artisans of Fomento para las Artes Decorativas (A-FAD) took place at the garden of the Maritime Museum of Barcelona, with a large attendance by the Spanish jewellery community. At the party, the creative shortlisted pieces were displayed, which were designed to consider small-scale production, using unforeseen materials and techniques. Twenty three semi-finalist designers presented their jewellery pieces during that same afternoon to the jury, which was the XXII edition of the event, The jury was presided over by the jeweller and member of A-FAD,

Q&A: Fei Liu

Fei Liu was the first Chinese born student to attend the School of Jewellery, Birmingham, moving specifically from China to attend the historical jewellery school. Some twenty years later he is the founder of an eponymously named multi award winning jewellery brand of international repute. He answers the Benchpeg Q&A... What’s your name, and what do you for a living? My name is Fei Liu. I established my own brand, Fei Liu Fine Jewellery, which allows me to share my art through jewellery, and enjoy the perks of gem hunting. How did you come to work in the jewellery industry?

News Edit: 28 November 2021

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Why ‘Slow Jewellery’ Is The Next Big Trend The Times: Nothing beats a piece designed and made by the same jeweller. Wish lists at the ready … www.thetimes.co.uk Coventry school crowned winners of community engagement award In Your Area: The school were praised for their work on inter-faith education and collaboration. www.inyourarea.co.uk A precious jewel of an advent calendar New Post Leader: Imagine opening the window of your advent calendar in the run-up to Christmas and instead of finding a chocolate you find a precious gem. www.newspostleader.co.uk Chester

Goldflair event announce exhibitor line-up as final tickets go on sale

With just over a month to go until Goldflair, which will take place in Edinburgh’s historic Assembly Rooms on Friday 23 November, the responsible jewellery event has announced the final line-up of six jewellers who will be exhibiting on the night. Six responsible jewellers who are licensees of Fairmined and/or Fairtrade will be displaying and selling their award-winning collections at the event. The jewellers taking part are Anuka Jewellery, April Doubleday, Ian Nicholson, Natalie Perry, Farah Qureshi and Karen Westland. Four responsible gem dealers will also be displaying their traceable collections of gemstones on the night. Hamilton & Inches craftsmen

Orkney’s Alison Moore Designs Wins Second Platinum Trusted Service Award

Orkney jewellery business  Alison Moore Designs  has won a second Feefo Platinum Trusted Service award – an independent seal of excellence recognising companies that deliver exceptional customer experiences. Trusted Service status is awarded to firms using online reviews site Feefo to collect genuine feedback and insights from shoppers. Sellers who meet the high standard, based on the number of reviews they have collected and their average rating, receive the award. As all reviews on Feefo are verified as genuine – the company matches feedback to legitimate transactions - the accreditation is seen as a true reflection of a business’ commitment

Alighieri's Rosh Mahtani Receives the Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design at London Fashion Week

On Tuesday 18th February 2020, at London Fashion Week, Rosh Mahtani of Alighieri was presented with The Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen. Mahtani is recognised for the craftmanship of her jewellery which is produced in Hatton Garden, for using responsibly sourced materials, promoting local manufacturing and supporting employment.  The Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design was initiated in recognition of the role the fashion industry plays in society and diplomacy and the movement of young designers that are both talented and making a

John Moore wins the Prestigious Goldsmiths' Company Award for the Second Time in Three Years

For the second time in just three years, British jewellery artist John Moore receives the Goldsmiths’ Company Award.  The presentation of the annual Awards of the Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Awards took place at the Goldsmiths ’ Hall in London on Monday 25 February 2019.  This important annual Awards Ceremony – known as the Jewellery Oscars – was hosted by Theo Fennell and welcomed over three-hundred guests. Earlier in the evening John had already been awarded the IJL (International Jewellery London) Gold award for silver jewellery, for his Lacewing Verto Necklace, then at the end of the ceremony, Theo Fennell

Award-Winning Jeweller Alex Monroe Announced As Keynote Speaker For Getting Started 2019

The Goldsmiths’ Centre, the UK’s leading charity for the professional training of goldsmiths, announced the keynote speaker for its business taster programme  Getting Started , which takes place from 7 – 11 January 2019, today. Award-winning jeweller Alex Monroe will deliver the keynote address giving an invaluable insight for recent graduates from UK Precious Metal or related courses into what it takes to set up successful creative careers.  Getting Started applications close this Wednesday 3 October 2018. This intensive free course supports talented jewellers and silversmiths to develop their own business or establish themselves as part of a larger company.

Forward Ladies Women in Business Awards 2016: Harriet Kelsall wins ‘Retail Businesswoman’ award

British jewellery designer Harriet Kelsall has won the ‘Retail Businesswoman’ award at the London regional finals of the Forward Ladies Women in Business Awards 2016. The regional heat took place on Friday at a celebration lunch at an exclusive London hotel, before an audience of senior and influential business leaders. Harriet Kelsall is one of the most respected bespoke jewellery designers and business trailblazers working in the UK jewellery industry today. She founded her business – Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery - in 1998 and it is now recognised in the UK and across the world as a market leader in

Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery wins national ‘Inspiring Independents’ Award

Independent jewellers across the country took to London’s Riverbank to honour and support the hardworking independent jewellery sector, where Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery took home one of only five category awards at Retail Jeweller Magazine’s 5 th  annual Inspiring Independents Awards. Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery’s London studio, found in fashionable Primrose Hill, was celebrated by a team of esteemed judges for its use of ‘visual merchandising and store design’ by Retail Jeweller Magazine and their peers. This new category looked at fresh and original store design and use of visuals to convey the brand’s ethos. Since Harriet Kelsall’s Primrose Hill

Alighieri set to grow brand after landing first NEWGEN award

British jeweller Alighieri has become the first jeweller to receive NEWGEN support from the British Fashion Council under the restructured sponsorship scheme. For the first time in 25 years, jewellery and fine jewellery have been incorporated into the annual womenswear and menswear designers awards as part of a new Accessories category, comprising also shoes, bags and hats.  Jewellery and millinery awards were previously made under the BFC’s Rock Vault and Headonism initiatives but as of 2018, these will cease to exist as the BFC seeks to group all Britain’s emerging talent across all designer fashion sectors into one category.  Previous

Student brings award-winning Make Your Mark design to life

Yanmi Liu, one of the winning designers at last year’s Make Your Mark Awards, has included an original piece featuring her praised braille hallmark concept in her Graduate Show.  Lui, a Central St Martins student of BA Jewellery Design, won joint second prize at the inaugural Awards for her design, called The Simplicity of Braille, which proposed adding a braille version of the Millesimal Fineness mark to a hallmarked item. She has now incorporated this highly praised concept in the creation of a fine silver water bottle cuff, which was included in her 2017 Graduate Show at Central St Martins

The IJL Kickstarter ‘Industry's Choice’ Award Now Open For Voting

IJL has announced the launch to choose this year’s ‘Industry’s Choice’ 2017  KickStarter . Now in its fifth year, the newly titled ‘Industry’s Choice’ competition rewards one  KickStarter  with a much sought after complementary stand in the Design Gallery at IJL 2018 ,  with   the winning designer will be announced at the show.   IJL Show Director, Sam Willoughby, explains the new format for voting: “This year, once again, we are extremely pleased with our  KickStarters . All ten are extremely talented and very different. I look forward to seeing who comes out tops .  Fingers at the ready

Brilliant social media wins Alice Barnes 2017 Industry's Choice Award

Alice Barnes built up a formidable following on social media for her unique paper art jewellery to win the IJL 2017 KickStart ‘Industry’s Choice Award’, beating nine other contenders for the prestigious prize of a complimentary stand in the Design Gallery in 2018. The ten KickStarters went into battle over the summer to win as many votes as possible from the public via social media and an online poll, with the prize awarded at the discretion of the IJL and The National Association of Jewellers.  Showing initiative and enterprise in her use of social media and email marketing, Alice gained

Dundee Student Wins Ingle & Rhode Fairtrade Gold Award

A university student from the University of Dundee has won the Ingle & Rhode 2017 Fairtrade Gold Design Awards. Aspiring jewellery design undergraduate, Angela Gillies,  is the over all winner of the awards, after competing against more than 100 budding designers and impressing the panel of judges.  Highly commended designs, category winners, and the overall winners were announced at the Fair Luxury (FLUX) 2017 conference in Birmingham on 25th April.  This is the first year the awards have run, recognising up and coming talent within the jewellery design industry.  Angela Gillies said of the win,  “Winning the Fairtrade Gold Design

IJL 2016 Showcases Record Number of Award Winning Designer Brands

This week IJL is set to showcase a set of exclusive ‘Designer Brands’ at its showcase Olympia event. The show will feature a record number of 17 designers within an expanded area of the show, displaying both silver and fine Jewellery. Elite designers from the UK, alongside those from Sweden, Australia and Brazil, will present the very best in fine and contemporary jewellery with the launch of exciting new collections, as well as acclaimed signature pieces. Sam Willoughby, IJL Event Director, commented, “This year’s Designer Brands showcase is a wonderful celebration of the best in creative flair and innovative talent.

Seba Jamal wins Luxury Jewellery Designer of the Year award at the Luxury Network International Awards 2019

On Saturday, February 23rd, Caesars Bluewaters Dubai, opened its doors to over 400 guests of The Luxury Network International Awards 2019, presented by CAEL, under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan. On a red carpet flanked by three pristine Rolls-Royce vehicles, attendees were greeted by H.E. Mr Fares Ghattas, Global CEO of The Luxury Network International, and Mrs Amal Shouman Sleiman, President of CAEL. The occasion brought together more than 50 luxury brands from over 15 countries representing Europe, CIS, Middle East, Africa, Asia, and the United States. The Gala was attended by representatives from [youtube

Hazel Thorn’s mixed-metal work garners “Best New Design” award at Goldsmiths’ Fair

Hazel Thorn's delicate and intricate works bear resemblance to shards of colourful, patterned eggshells. Her work in mixed-metal silversmithing has taken an interesting turn this year, after placements on an internship scheme run by the Goldsmiths’ Centre. During the 16 week placement, interns undergo intensive one-to-one tuition with master silversmiths, in this case Adrian Hope, Rauni Higson and Mary Ann Simmons. Thorn has credited this opportunity for expanding her skill set and “opening up new design possibilities.”  This new work (pictured below article) comes from learning the technique of seam-raising, where a flat sheet is formed into a cylinder or

Tresor Paris create the ‘Artisan Collection’

Tresor Paris celebrates the wonderful diverse nature of gemology with the unique Artisan collection, featuring slices of precious stones set in 18 carat gold for a contemporary take on traditional gem stones. Using breath-taking natural Ruby, Sapphire and sliced diamond stone cross-sections set in luxurious 18 carat yellow gold, every piece is truly individual. The contours of the outer shape of the gem are all different as are the naturally occurring inclusions inside each stone. Every piece is hand made using the gem stones as a starting point to craft a beautiful piece of jewellery around it. Salim Hasbani, Director

Jeweller looking for bench or business work opportunities

Jeweller looking for bench or business work opportunities Dublin based Jeweller with experience across the Gem & Jewellery industry in the UK, Ireland and abroad. Seeking remote freelance work and/ or employment in Dublin to develop Goldsmith skills.  Hardworking, adaptable and reliable. Approaches work with a hands on attitude, environmentally conscious mindset and cross cultural appreciation and understanding. Highly detail oriented and thrives in a creative environment Qualifications  Certificate in Traditional Jewellery and Goldsmith skills, The School of Jewellery Ireland 2021 (1 year course Sept 2020-2021) Gemmology Foundation & Diploma (FGA), Gem-A London (2013 - 2015) Business Management Degree Experience

Spectacular £30 million diamond found at Letsing

One massive diamond, worth more than £30 million, has been recovered by British mining company Gem Diamonds at their Letsing Mine in Lesotho, South Africa. Yet to be given a name, the 910 carat colourless diamond is roughly the size of a cricket ball and is the largest ever found at Letsing. It is also the fifth largest to be extracted in history and its discovery sent shares in Gem Diamonds soaring following a difficult couple of years where the world famous mine has struggled for major finds and wrestled with a fall in prices. Some of the most significant

Sarah Salmon

Meet Benchpeg's Trends Editor. She makes up part of the team that bring the Benchpeg website, newsletter and social media feeds to our lovely readers, subscribers and followers   Sarah Salmon Trends Editor Sarah has a natural flair for creativity and design, and is our trends and blog guru. She manages Benchpeg's weekly  trends and fashion content . Her full time job is as a Digital Marketing Executive in the Educational Sector. Previously she worked as the Editorial and Digital Assistant at  Gem-A , where she worked on Gem-A's Gems & Jewellery and The Journal of Gemmology publications as well as on

News Edit: 10 October 2021

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Birmingham cultural gem at risk as developers eye jewellery quarter The Guardian: Birmingham cultural gem at risk as developers eye jewellery quarter. www.theguardian.com Edinburgh jewellers announce they’re stocking renowned Russian jewellery brand Deadline News: Edinburgh jewellers have announced the arrival of luxurious collections from a renowned Russian jewellery firm, with some items costing more than £14,000. www.deadlinenews.co.uk Jasmin Sparrow creates ethereal jewellery and accessories Wallpaper: Jasmin Sparrow is drawn to vintage design codes in her eponymous jewellery brand. www.wallpaper.com A Jewellery Collaboration Modern Brides Will Want To Wear

Hatton Garden Party 2018

Hatton Garden Party 2018 Join the Hatton Garden Party on Thursday 5th July as we celebrate the colourful past and brilliant future of this London gem. We'll close the streets to traffic from 12-8pm to make way for delicious food and drink from Leather Lane Market, jewellery stalls, an artisan jewellery market in Bleeding Heart Yard, street performers, a treasure hunt and more... Date 5th July 2018 Times 12pm - 8.00pm Venue Hatton Garden, London, EC1N 8 Facebook  

Gerald Genta Heritage Association creates Inaugural prize

At the occasion of Baselworld 2019, the Gerald Genta Heritage Association is pleased to announce the creation of the annual Gerald Genta Prize, with the aim of recognizing talented young designers and high potentials in the fine watchmaking industry.  The first awards ceremony will take place in Paris in December 2019, then successively in Geneva (2020), Monaco (2021), London (2022) and Basel (2023). In addition to the Special Gerald Genta Prize, different categories of awards will also distinguish several other promising talents across the sector (Innovation Award, Audacity Award, Special Asia-Pacific Award, Special Europe Award, Special Americas Award, Special Africa

Laser Specialist Tom Rucker Wins Gold

Tom Rucker was awarded five Gold Awards at the Goldsmiths’ Craftsmanship and Design Awards 2017 this week, at Goldsmiths’ Hall, for his latest piece, the ‘GEO.NIOT' Brooch. The GEO.NIOT Brooch features a bright blue platinum that Tom invented and developed over many months and is a world first. The brooch is made using his cutting edge laser technique and decorated with pure white diamonds. Awards: Gold - The Goldsmiths’ Company Award 2017 Gold - The Boodles Award 2017 Gold - 3D Design Technological Innovation Award 2017 Gold - The Brown & Newirth Jewellers’ Award Gold - The Senior Award 2017

Cockpit Arts Awards 2018

Call for Applications: Cockpit Arts Awards x4 Cockpit Arts have four awards currently open for application - comprising subsidised studio space and support for one year. Cockpit Arts are looking for talented makers to join the Cockpit Arts community: The Cockpit Arts / The Arts Society Award - This Award supports a maker practicing a traditional craft that requires skills at risk of dying out. The Cockpit Arts / Clear Insurance Award - This Award which specifically aims to support professional makers who have been in business for less than three years and have aspirations to develop their craft business.

GIA Scholarships 2021

Call for Applications: GIA Scholarships 2021 GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is offering $1 million in scholarships for aspiring gem and jewelry students and professionals looking to advance their careers with education from GIA in courses related to gemology and jewelry manufacturing arts offered through its campuses, distance education and lab classes. Applications will be accepted through Oct. 15 for all courses, programs and classes starting before Dec. 31, 2021.   The scholarships are available for on-campus and distance education programs, and are open to U.S. and international prospective students. For details on eligibility, how to apply and required documents,

Mapping a Legacy of Indian Jewels

“Mapping a Legacy of Indian Jewels”  Uncovers India’s Historic Gem Trade 11 - 12 October 2019 Four Seasons Hotel, Mumbai Led by Saffron Art, the biennial jewellery conference, ‘Mapping a Legacy of Indian Jewels’ will be making a comeback with a second edition in early autumn on the 11thto the 12thof October at Mumbai’s Four Seasons Hotel. The two-day conference  will feature a line-up of prestigious speakers such as contemporary jewellery designer Viren Bhagat, art historian and author Hugo Crespo, chief advisor to the Maharaja of Kapurthala, Cynthia Meera Frederick, and international jewellery specialists Joanna Hardy and Lisa Hubbard. Saffronart’s Mapping

GIA Scholarships 2020

Call for Applications: GIA Scholarships 2019 GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is offering $2 million in scholarships for aspiring or current gem and jewelry professionals interested in GIA gemology, jewelry manufacturing arts, distance education courses and lab classes in 2020. The scholarships are available for on-campus and distance education programs, and are open to U.S. and international prospective students. Applications will be accepted Aug. 1 through Sept. 30, 2019. The scholarships are made available by the GIA Endowment Fund and private donors. Applications for 2020 scholarships are available at GIA.edu/scholarships . For details on eligibility, how to apply and required

News Edit: 21 June 2021

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Gucci unveils second high jewellery collection Wallpaper: The new high jewellery collection from Gucci is a dazzling ode to the natural world. www.wallpaper.com 5 Of The Most Meaningful Pieces In Kate’s Jewellery Collection Vogue: As the wife of the future King, the Duchess of Cambridge has acquired some impressive jewellery – and frequently dips into the Queen’s unparalleled collection for formal occasions. www.vogue.co.uk Diamonds in the rough – the rise of cast-not-set jewellery FT: How a renegade approach to gem-setting went mainstream. www.ft.com Gucci second collection of High

Sapphire for those born in September

September can only mean one thing - it's officially Virgo season! Sapphire - the September birthstone - has been treasured as one of the most precious gemstones for thousands of years, long associated with royalty, romance and heavenly blessings.  This ‘royal’ gem is often described as one of the ‘big three’ – sapphire, ruby and emerald – or perhaps ‘big four’ – sapphire, ruby, emerald and tanzanite’ – in the world of coloured gemstones. The word sapphire originates from the Greek word sappheiros, meaning ‘blue stone’. Sapphires are traditionally associated with the blue variety of the mineral corundum but they

GIA’s Knowledge Discussion Captures the Importance of Sustainability and Ethics

If you have ever wondered, “what does sustainability mean in jewellery and why should we care?” then GIA’s (Gemological Institute of America) recent Knowledge Session, where experts offer a trove of knowledge based on their experience and expertise, has answers for you. The webinar offered insights into consumer demand for ethically sourced materials, the importance of sustainability and ethics, and transparency in the gem and jewelry supply chain. A recording of the panel discussion is available  here . This eye-opening discussion was moderated by author and journalist Melanie Grant, who expanded on topics discussed in her book, "

GIA open up free online courses to earn GIA diploma

As the global gem and jewelry industry navigates through the COVID-19 pandemic, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is making access to its introductory courses easier than ever before. From May 4, 2020 through June 29, 2020, the GIA Essentials online courses in diamonds, colored stones and jewelry will be available at no cost for first-time enrollments. For additional details and to apply, visit GIA.edu/elearning-offer . This limited time opportunity teaches the fundamentals needed for a profession in gems and jewelry. By completing the three GIA Essentials eLearning courses, students may earn the GIA Applied Jewelry Professional™ (AJP) diploma. Eligible

Four Accomplished Bright Young Gems Assemble at IJL 2019

International Jewellery London 2019 is set to illuminate four new Bright Young Gems, shining a light on exciting and emerging talent in the jewellery industry. All four of the winners this year hail from the prestigious Central Saint Martins.  Selected by industry judges Nyasha Pitt; Charlie Miller; Katerina Perez; Danny Hall and Bobby White, the four winning designers will be exhibiting at IJL in just a couple of days, all having freshly attended a bespoke mentoring workshop last month, designed to help the winners maximise their IJL experience,  This year, 'Gem' is the operative word for at least two of

US$2M Available GIA Scholarships 2021

Call for Applications: GIA Scholarships 2021 Whether you are new to the gem and jewelry industry or a veteran looking to expand your knowledge, education from GIA will equip you with the tools to succeed. A scholarship from GIA makes achieving your educational goals financially attainable. GIA is accepting scholarship applications until March 31, 2021 for classes that start June through December of this year. The scholarships are open to prospective students around the world. For this application cycle, all prospective students may apply for distance education programs, with limited on-campus scholarship availability due to pandemic-related capacity restrictions. For details

GIA Scholarships 2019

Call for Applications: GIA Scholarships 2019 Aspiring gem and jewelry professionals interested in GIA (Gemological Institute of America) gemology and jewelry manufacturing arts programs, distance education courses and lab classes can apply for scholarships beginning 1 February 2019. GIA is offering $2 million in scholarships funded by the GIA Endowment Fund and private donors for 2019. Myra Bashir, GIA Graduate Jeweler and scholarship recipient, said “ A GIA scholarship made a big difference for me, not only financially, but it gave me the opportunity to study something I love.” Application Deadline Applications for 2019 scholarships are available at GIA.edu/scholarships and

Fair Luxury Conference 2018 at the RCA

Fair Luxury Conference 2018 at the RCA Fair Luxury at the RCA will be an opportunity for anyone working in or connected to the jewellery industry to hear about and discuss the opportunities and issues around ethical sourcing. The day will include presentations from practicing jewellers, staff working in certification programmes, gem traders, consultants and researchers working on artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM). Confirmed participants now include: Susi Smither ( The Rock Hound ) Tim Ingle ( Ingle & Rhode - The Ethical Jeweller ) Naqiyah Sultan ( Kashka Jewellery ) Gavin Hilson ( University of Surrey ) Yves Bertran (

The Prettiest Pearl in the Room

An ever-loved adornment for jewellery, accessories, furniture and more, the pearl is the oldest gem known to man, symbolic for its association with beauty, wealth, wisdom and purity.  Pearls are a timeless symbol of style; universally flattering due to their ability to complement a plethora of outfits and brighten just about any complexion of its wearer. One of the most precious trends for winter 2018 is the return of the pearls! Single bold chokers, as well as fine and dainty multi-strand necklaces, are a big hit with designers this season. With interesting clasps, the array of pearl jewellery this winter

Gemfields and Fabergé Unveil Laser Inscribed Emerald

Gemfields and Fabergé have unveiled what is believed to be the world’s first emerald, laser-inscribed with traceability information and a personalised message. The 4.11 carat, lively green emerald-cut gemstone was mined at Gemfields’ Kagem emerald mine in Zambia. The gem was then acquired and mounted by Fabergé as a custom-crafted item for the successful winner of a charity auction held by the charity mothers2mothers at Salma Hayek Pinault’s London home in November. As part of the prize, the winners will also travel to Gemfields’ Kagem mine in Zambia to see for themselves the very source of their unique emerald, as

Fabergé's Life in Colour campaign and Edible Easter Egg Experience

April is a busy month for Fabergé, as we begin to reach the Easter period, a time which is particularly special to the House of Fabergé. As well as launching their beautiful new campaign 'A Life in Colour', they have partnered with The Ritz London to create a luxurious edible experience. The new Spring campaign was shot by gem photographer Casey Moore, at Gemfields' ruby auction in Singapore. The campaign is centred around Gemfields' stunning uncut gemstones, in their raw, natural state, and the beauty of coloured gemstones responsibly sourced from Gemfields’ mines in Zambia and Mozambique.and the beauty of coloured

JNA Jewellery Design Competition

Call for Applications:  JNA Jewellery Design Competition 2018/19 The inaugural competition is organised by JNA of UBM Asia Limited, sponsored by Crossfor HK Ltd, Platinum Guild International (PGI) and the Tahitian Pearl Association Hong Kong (TPAHK), the competition recognises and celebrates excellence in jewellery design. It invites amateur and professional jewellery designers to harness their passion and ingenuity towards producing modern and innovative designs that reflect their perspective. Theme of the competition The theme of the 3 categories are : Dancing Stone jewellery category - New Fashion Tech Materials: Entrants may incorporate gem and metal materials such as diamonds, coloured

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair 1 April 2019 Glasgow The collaborative partnership of four of the UK’s leading ethically sourced gemstone suppliers, Stuart Pool (Nineteen48), Kathy Chappell (Fair Trade Gemstones), Ian Bone (Capricorn Gems) and Maira Toledo Rodrigues (Gemstones Brazil), will be offering their gemstones with full provenance of ethical sourcing to trade customers and jewellery/design students at three gem fairs in March and April. These suppliers have developed the business connections to ensure that their gems have been sourced and processed throughout the chain from mine to market to satisfy the stringent ethical requirements now being rightly sought.  “The word

Shine bright like a diamond this April

Those born in the month of April are fortunate enough to have one of the most prized and regal gems as their birthstone. For all those April babies, diamonds really are a girl's (and boy's) best friend. From the Greek word " ad ámas " meaning "unbreakable", diamonds have been the desired gem for centuries; arguably as early as 4 BC due to its unique characteristics and qualities. Historically diamonds first became popular in India where the Imperial Colony and moguls mined diamonds from deposits along three major rivers. Diamond is made of pure carbon and it is the way that

Diamonds Are Forever: The Birthstone of April

It's true that diamonds are a girl's (and guys) best friend, especially as those fortunate enough to be born in April have one of the most treasured birthstones in the gem world: Diamonds. Diamond Overview Diamonds attain the reputation of being most of the most prized and rare gemstones due to their level of toughness. In fact, diamonds are 58 times harder than any other mineral on Earth and can only be cut by another diamond. Diamonds are made from only one element: a pure carbon lattice which can occur in several colours including pink, yellow, red, green and blue.

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair 2 April 2019 Edinburgh The collaborative partnership of four of the UK’s leading ethically sourced gemstone suppliers, Stuart Pool (Nineteen48), Kathy Chappell (Fair Trade Gemstones), Ian Bone (Capricorn Gems) and Maira Toledo Rodrigues (Gemstones Brazil), will be offering their gemstones with full provenance of ethical sourcing to trade customers and jewellery/design students at three gem fairs in March and April. These suppliers have developed the business connections to ensure that their gems have been sourced and processed throughout the chain from mine to market to satisfy the stringent ethical requirements now being rightly sought.  “The word

Haruni Fine Gems 2018 Jewellery Design Competition

Haruni Fine Gems 2018 Jewellery Design Competition To celebrate the recent name changeover from The Gem Bank to Haruni Fine Gems, along with the rebranding of all the offices, they have launched a jewellery design competition. The rules of the competition are simple:  you can choose any ruby, sapphire, emerald or diamond, from the HaruniFineGems.com website and design a ring, then design either a pair of earrings or a pendant to match. Only the feature stone for the ring must come from the site, stones for the earrings or pendant do not. Three prizes totalling £2000 will be distributed between

August Birthstone: Pretty Peridot

Often called the evening emerald because of its light green colour, peridot is known as a symbol of strength. The mellow lime green stone of August is associated with peace, good fortune, prosperity and happiness as well as the famous poem,  " Wear a Peridot or for thee,  No conjugal fidelity,  The August born without this stone, `Tis said, must live unloved alone”. A rare-gem quality of variety of olivine, peridot is lustrous yellowish-green stone, also known as Chrysolite. Igneous in origin, peridot is formed deep inside the earth's mantle and surfaced through volcanic activity,  measuring a hardness of 6.5-7

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair 28 - 29 March 2019 London The collaborative partnership of four of the UK’s leading ethically sourced gemstone suppliers, Stuart Pool (Nineteen48), Kathy Chappell (Fair Trade Gemstones), Ian Bone (Capricorn Gems) and Maira Toledo Rodrigues (Gemstones Brazil), will be offering their gemstones with full provenance of ethical sourcing to trade customers and jewellery/design students at three gem fairs in March and April. These suppliers have developed the business connections to ensure that their gems have been sourced and processed throughout the chain from mine to market to satisfy the stringent ethical requirements now being rightly sought. 

'Pussy pendant' makes waves for young designer Lukas Grewenig

Tip for all young designers. If you want massive mainstream media attention, design a piece that resembles a part of the women's anatomy and get a high profile jeweller to promote it on Facebook and Twitter. Lukas Grewenig, a London based designer who studied at the Royal College of Art came up with his pendant design as part of the Gilded Youth Project run for talented youths by high end jeweller Theo Fennel and Central St Martins. It is made of silver and gold with a purple gem set in the middle, and is designed to portray the way a

Traditional jewellery with a modern edge by Olivia and Pearl

There is no simpler statement of elegance than a pearl- its opaque allure has long been recognised by fashion muses and taste-makers, famously Coco Chanel, Elizabeth Taylor and Princess Diana. Now, the worlds oldest gem has captured the eye of young designer Olivia Smith, Founder of Olivia & Pearl London.  Destined for a new generation of pearl-lovers, the brand aims to be the epicentre of a Venn diagram that encompasses both affordability and luxe design, all whilst walking the fine line between traditional and contemporary. It’s no mean feat, but with the collection’s subtle curves, geometric lines and minimalistic design,

Amethyst Crush for February Birth Babies

One of the most revered stones for centuries, amethyst crystal is one of the most treasured variety of quartz. With its stunning tones of violet-purple and its rich history saturated with medieval lore and legendary powers, few crystals are as distinctive as arresting amethyst. Today, amethyst is classified as a semi-precious stone but throughout history, many ancients regarded it as a "Gem of Fire", worth as much in value and beauty as a diamond. Believed to carry energies of passion and fire, creativity and spirituality, amethyst has always been associated with the month of February and the Roman water-god, Neptune.

Kate Dumbleton Launches 'Jewel Creatures' Collection

Kate  Dumbleton  has  announced the launch of her   new collection, ' Jewel Creatures'.  A long time in development, first sketched out around 2 years ago,  this  collection features  a range of gem set animals with a difference. The  creatures  featured in the new collection - Cat, Mouse, Dog, Rabbit, Bear and Fox ,  are depicted  by only a few settings in different shapes.  The initial range of rings and pendants   in  silver ,  various gemstones and c ubic  z irconia , can be made to order in any colour combinations . Totally customizable,  buyers can choose the colours

Appointment: Doug Henry, New CEO & Assay Master

The AnchorCert Group, comprising Assay Office Birmingham, AnchorCert Analytical, AnchorCert Gem Lab, SafeGuard Valuations and AnchorCert Academy, has announced the appointment of Doug Henry MBA as incoming Chief Executive and Assay Master. Doug, who is currently joint CEO, will commence his new appointment as the company's 14th Assay Master on Monday 3 April 2017, having originally joined AnchorCert Group to restructure the quality management system in September 2014. Doug then successfully project-managed the business relocation to Moreton Street in July 2015. Doug has subsequently led the management of the Indian off-shore sub-office, and continues to support the development of quality

The Unspoken Beauty of Moissanite

Moissanite   (/ˈmɔɪsənaɪt/) So what exactly is moissanite; the ugly step-sister of the cinderella gem world? Think again! Incredibly rare and precious, moissanite is a beautifully natural gemstone born from a meteorite star that fell to Earth in 1893. Originally thought to be the discovery of Diamond by French scientist Henri Moissan, it was soon revealed to be a crystal gemstone with very similar properties to Diamond but that was composed of silicon carbide. Due to the natural composition of Moissanite, it has become a very scarce mineral worldwide making moissainte as we see it today almost entirely laboratory-grown. Through

Lady In Red: Ruby Passion

A captivating and fiery lady in red who with one radiant gleam of passion could enchant just about any wanton eye; Welcome to the world of red, red Ruby. The gem queen of the crystal world, this precious stone of nobility and flaming shades of beauty is one of four "precious" gemstones accredited to its rarity, carat value, hardness and natural vitality; the others including diamond, sapphire and emerald. Ruby is derived from the latin word ' Rubeus ' meaning 'red' and the deeply striking red colour palette is due to genes within the Corundum family. Comprising of chrome and

The Modern Pearl Collection by Margot McKinney

Internationally acclaimed jewellery designer  Margot McKinney  is redefining the way women wear pearls with a new collection created from the unusual beauty of Australian South Sea pearls. Based in Australia, Margot  McKinney hails from a long family tradition of luxury retail  dating back to 1884.   Transcending mere adornment,  her  jewelry  designs  are statement pieces of pristine craftsmanship that lend any ensemble a touch of the sublime. For Margot, it often begins with the stone, sourced with extreme care from rare finds. Out of its intrinsic qualities, she fashions the ideal setting for the gem to shine at its most

Bloggers

We love a blog. Some are super stylish, some just have their finger on the pulse, and some are just plain enjoyable to read. Here is a list of our favorite jewellery blogs and bloggers... Ecommerce Gold  The idea for Ecommerce Gold came from running my other site The Haywood Life, which is all about helping businesses get online. But I wanted to create a website just focused on ecommerce platforms for UK businesses. www.ecommercegold.co.uk Adorn London www.adorn-london.com Anna Handmade Fine Jewellery www.annafinejewellery.co.uk Art Jewelry Forum artjewelryforum.org Cheryl Kremkow www.gemobsessed.com Cooksongold cooksongold.com Diamonds in the Library diamondsinthelibrary.com Gem Gossip gemgossip.com

The Goldsmiths’ Centre’s New Talent and Tutors Scoop Twenty Five Accolades at the ‘Jewellery Oscars’

The Goldsmiths’ Centre scooped twenty-five accolades at this year’s Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council competition, known as the 'Jewellery Oscars', seeing its new talented craftspeople and their tutors represented across award categories. The prestigious award ceremony, which was held at Goldsmiths’ Hall on Monday 25 February 2019, saw the Goldsmiths’ Centre’s current and former Foundation Programme trainees, Goldsmiths’ Company apprentices, Setting Out course participants as well as their tutors win accolades across specialisms, from polishing, diamond mounting to silversmithing, reflecting the exceptional standard of talent, skill and the level of teaching in both the Junior and Senior Award categories. Chosen

One Drop Plus One Drop Makes One Drop

One Drop Plus One Drop Makes One Drop - Adi Toch A solo exhibition from award winning metalsmith Adi Toch. Adi Toch’s practice as a metalsmith centres on making engaging vessels and containers that investigate colour, movement, sound and tactility. Following a BA in Metal at Bezalel Art Academy in Jerusalem, Adi completed an MA at the Cass, London in 2009. Her work is exhibited internationally and has won prestigious awards including the Gold Award from The Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Council in 2013. She was recently shortlisted for The Loewe Craft Prize and won a 2017 Wallpaper* Design Award. Adi is currently a

Cooksongold Wins at the Birmingham Post Business Awards

Cooksongold, the UK largest jewellery making supplier and supplier of precious metals, picked up the award for Excellence in Science and Technology at the Birmingham Post Business Awards 2016 for its Direct Precious Metal 3D Printing technology. The awards, which aim to celebrate success, recognise achievement and highlight the innovative people and companies within Birmingham, took place at the ICC Birmingham. The award is a recognition of Cooksongolds pioneering work to drive the jewellery industry forward. Discussing the award win, Richard Oldroyd, Managing Director, said: “The Cooksongold team have worked extremely hard to bring the Precious M 080 technology to

Jeremy France Jewellers voted as Winchester's ‘Favourite Independent 2016'

Jeremy France Jewellers are on a winning streak, scooping yet another award for ‘Winchester’s Favourite Independent 2016’. Having recently won the award for ‘Independent Business of the Year 2016’ at the Winchester Business awards, the team were keen to maintain their title as Winchester’s favourite, especially as the award was dependent on votes made by the general public. Annually, July marks the month of Winchester’s ‘Festival of Independents’, which is organised by the Winchester Business Improvement District (BID) as part of their ongoing project to support and celebrate all things independent in the city. Throughout the month, shoppers cast their

News Edit: 15th November 2020

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   5 Black UK-Based Designers Reshaping The World Of Haute Jewellery Vogue: The fine jewellery industry can seem an intimidating one to those looking up at its exquisitely gem-set ivory tower from beyond its walls. vogue.co.uk Meet The Ingenious Jewellery Designers Using NASA-Approved Materials & Ancient Bamboo-Weaving Techniques To Create Desirability Vogue: Motley jewellery fans, get ready. The e-tailer, which specialises in exceptional jewellery design at an accessible price, has just unveiled its latest collection with designer Alice Cicolini. vogue.co.uk Why Andrew Grima, the jeweller beloved of Bond girls

The Burke Prize 2018

Call for Applications: The Burke Prize (US Citizens Only) A new annual award that reinforces the Museum of Arts and Design commitment to celebrating the next generation of artists working in and advancing the disciplines that shaped the American studio craft movement, the Burke Prize is an unrestricted $50,000 award made to a professional artist under the age of forty-five working in glass, fiber, clay, metals, or wood. Named for Marian and Russell Burke, two passionate collectors of craft and longtime supporters of MAD, the Burke Prize will be determined by an annual jury of professionals in the fields of art,

Loewe Reveals Craft Prize Trophy

The newly established Loewe Foundation Craft Prize launched earlier this year with the aim to recognize emerging artisans, has announced the creation of the award’s winner’s trophy.  Designed and made by Alex Brogden, it was engraved by Graham Saggers at the Goldsmiths Centre. The award, sponsored by the Loewe Foundation, was created in an effort to magnify the beauty and importance of original and handmade products. Craftpersons of any medium are encouraged to submit their applications to the award. Fourteen finalists will be selected for an exhibition in Madrid, after a panel of judges select the winning entry, scheduled for

Sarah Straussberg Reveals Latest Commission

Sarah Straussberg has revealed her latest commission, the Photo London 'Master of Photography' award. Straussberg has been commissioned for this award for the past five years, with previous winners including photographers: Sebastião Salgado, Don McCullen, Taryn Simon and Edward Burtynsky. This year’s winner is highly influential photographer Stephen Shore. Shore is a widely published photographer, and has been working in the industry for the past forty-five years. He was the first living photographer to have a one-man show at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York since Alfred Stieglitz, forty years earlier. He has also had one-man shows at

Jocelyn Burton 1946 - 2020

Sara Jocelyn Margarita Elissa Burton (10 January 1946 - 5 April 2020) was an award-winning British silver and goldsmith. Burton was the first woman to receive the City and Guilds of London Institute top award, the Prince Philip Medal. Jocelyn Burton, 74: Effervescent silversmith and a first freewoman The Times: When in 1974 Jocelyn Burton became the first female freeman of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths the certificate that she was handed had to have the words “son of” Roland Burton crossed out in ink, to be replaced with “daughter of”. A determined figure, Jocelyn spent a large part of

Q&A: Jeff Lowe

Jeff Lowe is an internationally acclaimed sculptor and jewellery designer. Educated at the famed St. Martins School of Art, under the esteemed Sir Anthony Caro, Phillip King and William Tucker, Lowe's career skyrocketed as a result of his first one man  show at the prestigious Leicester Galleries in Londonʼs Cork Street. He answers the Benchpeg Q&A... For the past forty years, Jeff Lowe has remained at the forefront of contemporary abstract sculpture, representing Britain at the Paris Biennale, recieving the Sainsbury award in 1975 and the Pollock-Krasner award in 1993. He has been exhibited at museums and galleries around the world, with significant

Jerwood Art Fund Makers Open

Call for Applications: Jerwood Art Fund Makers Open Selectors Announced and Applications Open Deadline 26 August 2020, 5pm New national partnerships with Art Fund and Aberdeen Art Gallery support early-career artists and makers to develop bold new work   Jerwood Arts and Art Fund are relaunching the prestigious biennial artist development, commissioning and national touring award as Jerwood Art Fund Makers Open. The award, now in its eighth edition, gives five outstanding early-career UK-based artists and makers the opportunity to develop ambitious new works, to be presented in London at Jerwood Space in June 2021 followed by a three-venue national tour

The Dover Prize

Call for Applications: The Dover Prize  The Dover Prize is an award open to any UK-based artist. It supports excellence and experimentation in the arts and creative industries. Applications are welcome from artists and creative practitioners working in the visual arts e.g.  painting, sculpture, ceramics, print- making, photography, digital art, film making, performance and installations. This year the Dover Prize comprises: The Dover Award:  A bursary of £10,000 paid across two years, to an individual or collective to provide time to think, research, reflect and/or experiment with new ideas Creative Awards:  Five awards of £1,500 are available for one year

2020 GC&DC competition launched at IJL

The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council (GC&DC) returns to International Jewellery London in 2019, where it will formally launch the 2019/20 edition of its nationwide annual competition, The Goldsmiths’ Craftsmanship & Design Awards. The GC&DC’s competition launch and appearance at IJL is supported by an exciting programme, including: An exclusive showcase of 2018/19 GC&DC Award winners’ work including Cartier Award winner Tony Bedford, as well as IJL and Goldsmiths’ Company Awards recipient and 2019 Jeweller of the Fair, John Moore. An unmissable ‘In Conversation’ with Tony Bedford and Neil Battes, Cartier’s workshop manager, hosted and facilitated by the GC&DC and

Lucie Gledhill's Modern Twist on the Victorian Curb Chain Garners Best New Design 2019 at Goldsmiths' Fair Week One

An innovative collaboration, between jeweller Lucie Gledhill and photographer Kasia, has won the attention of this years’ Goldsmiths’ fair expert judge of the Best New Design Award.  This year, Trino Verkade judged the award, a consultant with the Sarabande foundation, an initiative set up by the late legendary designer, Lee Alexander McQueen, who left the majority of his estate to support creative and visionary talent. In addition to providing scholarships and studio space for artists. The curb chain is a feat of craftsmanship, taking three weeks to complete. A chain was fashioned from gold tubing and silver wire, then each

Cockpit Arts subsidised Studio Space Awards 2018

Call for Applications: Cockpit Arts Subsidised Workshop Space Awards Cockpit Arts are looking for talented makers to join the Cockpit Arts community.  They have four Awards currently open for application, comprising subsidised studio space and support for one year. The Cockpit Arts / Clear Insurance Award This Award which specifically aims to support professional makers who have been in business for less than three years and have aspirations to develop their craft business. The Cockpit Arts / The Clothworkers’ Foundation Awards Open to graduates within the last five years, these awards aim to assist weavers to set up in business. The

£1000 Grant Available for Jewellers

£1000 Grant Available for Jewellers: JewelFund Is Now Open for Applications Award-winning founder of the Hatton Garden based London Jewellery School, Jessica Rose has recently launched a new online company, Jewellers Academy. Alongside the launch she has created a grant for jewellers to help support them in starting and growing their own jewellery businesses. The award, named ‘JewelFund’ is now open for applications from jewellers from anywhere in the world who have a passion for making and need some funds to launch or grow their business. There are two £1000 grants available this year and plans to grow the fund

The Sunny Art Prize Competition and Exhibition 2018

Call for Applications: The Sunny Art Prize The Sunny Art Prize is an international art competition hosted by Sunny Art Centre, London. This fine art award is a global platform, giving an opportunity to emerging and established artists to showcase their talents to a wider audience. We aim to display artistic and cultural diversity to the international art scenes of London, Beijing, Guangzhou and Macau. Sunny Art Award will promote an exchange in creativity between Western and Eastern cultures. We are looking for a variety of submissions which can range from two-dimensional works such as paintings, drawings and photographs, to

Decimus 2018

DECIMUS Friday 2nd November 2018 DECIMUS, a collective of ten award-winning goldsmiths and silversmiths. Held in the beautiful Exhibition Rooms, DECIMUS are staging a Salon Privé at the Goldsmiths’ Centre in the lead up to Christmas. The event is a perfect opportunity to enjoy The Goldsmiths' Centre, meet a talented group of designers and try their jewellery. All artists will be available to discuss their work, design techniques and commissions for Christmas. DECIMUS is a collective of 10 award-winning goldsmiths and silversmiths Alma Sophia Gronli Geller Max Danger Ana Thompson Melissa Rigby Flora Bhattachary Samuel Waterhouse Jessica Jue Shivani Patel

Hockley Mint to focus on its bridal offer at this year’s IJL

Award-winning British fine jewellery manufacturer Hockley Mint will showcase an extensive collection of new diamond jewellery pieces at IJL 2018 . The main focus will appeal to retailers looking for high-quality, British-made bridal jewellery, with a new range that includes 36 single-stone engagement ring designs, as well as a large selection of multi-stone diamond rings, pendants and earrings. For the first time, the show will also see Hockley Mint offer pieces from its Mari Me bridal collection available to order as mounts. These award-winning designs in Hockley Mint’s first fully branded bridal collection have previously only been available to retailers

Heritage Crafts Association Awards 2018

Call for Applications: The Heritage Crafts Association Awards Craftspeople urged to apply for awards and bursaries recognising traditional skills The Heritage Crafts Association (HCA) has announced its call for applications for a suite of awards and bursaries recognising people working in traditional skills. Craftspeople can be nominated for Heritage Crafts Maker of the Year, HCA/Marsh Trainer of the Year, and HCA/Marsh Volunteer of the Year. Nominations can also be made for the HCA/Marsh Heritage Crafts ‘Made in Britain’ Award.  Each award is worth £1,000. Heritage crafts make up the largest part of the craft sector, yet many heritage crafts are

Brian Hill Awarded Outstanding Contribution to Industry

Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council Consultant Secretary recognised for his dedication and drive to support those working in the UK jewellery and silversmithing trades. Brian Hill, Consultant Secretary of the Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council, has been honoured with the prestigious Outstanding Contribution to Industry Award at this year’s UK Jewellery Awards. Held at the Honourable Artillery Club in London, the evening recognised a series of design, retail and marketing talent working in the UK industry, culminating with the Outstanding Contribution Award, awarded to Brian Hill for his 52 years of commitment and drive to promote, advance and future-proof skills

The NAJ Awards

Call for Applications: The NAJ Awards The NAJ Awards celebrate the achievements of members of the National Association of Jewellers. How to Apply The nomination process has changed, awards are no longer about the number of votes from your industry peers – you have to put yourself forward and tell the NAJ why you deserve an award. Why Apply? If you are shortlisted or go on to win an award your business will benefit from a great deal of publicity, as the NAJ let the industry know who you are and why you are special. Online Application It takes just

Worcester Jeweller Anja Potze Celebrates 21 Year Milestone

A respected Worcester jeweller has marked her 21st anniversary in the city. Award-winning jewellery designer Anja Potze has become one of city’s leading jewellers since arriving in Worcester in the nineties, building a customer base from across the county and beyond. In the past 18 months alone two new members of staff have joined the Friar Street business which was also recently rated as one of the top jewellers in Worcester by the website, Three Best Rated.  Award-winning design expert and Birmingham School of Jewellery graduate Laura Golborne has joined the six-strong team alongside commercial and retail expert, Felicity Allen.

Federation of Small Businesses Small Business Awards

Call for Entries: Federation of Small Businesses Small Business Awards  The awards showcase the best small businesses from the length and breadth of the UK, offering national recognition for those who have made the biggest impression over the last 12 months. Expert smaller business judges will select category winners in 12 areas across the UK. Winning an FSB Celebrating Small Business Award is a great way to showcase your business achievements and celebrate your business hard work, brilliance and innovation within your own geographical area as well as having the opportunity to win a national award. Awards Ceremony The grand

Sarah Straussberg Unveils Latest Commission

London based jewellery brand   Sarah  Straussberg   has  revealed its latest commission, the   Photo London    ‘Master of Photography’ Award 2017.   This is the third year running   that  Straussberg  has been commissioned to create the award, with previous winners including photography icons  Sebastiã o  Salgado and Don  McCullen . This year’s winner is another hugely infl uential  artist:  Taryn Simon.   Simon is a multidisciplinary artist working in photography, text, sculpture and performance. Guided by an interest in systems of  categorisation and  classifi cation, her practice involves extensive research into the power and structure of secrecy and the

Allum & Sidaway Strike Gold Twice in their 75th Anniversary Year

CMJ members  Allum & Sidaway are celebrating another win after scooping two awards at the biggest night in the UK jewellery calendar; the UK Jewellery Awards. Amongst stiff competition from a record number of applicants, they received the very prestigious Retailer of The Year award and The Best Store Environment award for their new Salisbury store. The awards, hosted by TV presenter  Gethin  Jones and organised by Retail Jeweller magazine, took place last Thursday at the London Hilton on Park Lane. Marking their 25th anniversary edition of the UK Jewellery Awards, this is the only ceremony of its kind for

Artquest Horniman Museum Residency

Artquest Horniman Museum Residency The annual research residency from Artquest in partnership with the Horniman Museum and Gardens is now open for applications. The 2017 residency is focused on the museum’s music collection. One selected artist will receive: An award of £3000 to engage with the work and collections of the museum An additional award of £850 towards a public facing event showcasing the thinking and research undertaken during the residency Privileged access to museum’s music collection objects and curators This is an incredible opportunity for a London-based artist, working in any medium, with at least 5 years’ experience working

Call for Applications: Heritage Crafts Association Awards

The Heritage Crafts Association is pleased to announce a call for applications for a suite of awards and bursaries recognising people working in traditional skills. Applications Open Craftspeople can be nominated for: Heritage Crafts Maker of the Year, Marsh Trainer of the Year, and Marsh Volunteer of the Year. Nominations can also be made for the Marsh Heritage Crafts ‘Made in Britain’ Award. Prizes Each award is worth £1,000. NADFAS Bursary A bursary offered with the support of the National Association of Decorative and Fine Arts Societies (NADFAS) and worth up to £5,000 is also available for study in a

Welcoming A Bespoke Beauty: Vaessen | Walker

March has arrived in all its glory and as Spring begins to sprinkle her beauty upon the world, new jewellery brand Vassen | Walker have planted their roots in the jewellery world; blossoming with their  debut jewellery collection ALLORA. Louise Vaessen-Walker is the creative and founding director behind the contemporary jewellery and tableware brand where h er innovative collections have received much recognition both nationally and abroad. Louise has been commended in receiving a number of awards in both design and craftsmanship, most notably the London Assay Office Special Gold Award, and the 3D Innovative Technology Design Gold Award from

Cornerstone Creations Celebrates Trade Show Success

Cornerstone Creations is a beautifully made contemporary, classic silver jewellery collection based in St Ives, Cambridgeshire. Founded and designed by award winning British goldsmith Paul Spurgeon, this conscience collection is all made in sterling silver using the best semi-precious stones.  Each piece of this contemporary silver collection is independtely designed by award-winning goldsmith Paul Spurgeon so that every piece portrays his fresh, flowing design. The key desire of Cornerstone Creations is to create jewellery with classic wearability underpinned with a contemporary flair; a jewellery range perfect for every occassion.  The company has triumphed with a fantastic start to the year.

Isabella Liu Unveils ‘Sea Rhymes Collection’ at IJL 2016

A rising star has settled in to jewellery lovers' views as the London-based Chinese artist, Isabella Liu, reveals her new 'Sea Rhymes' collection, which will debut at this year's International Jewellery London this week. Wuhan-born and London-based Isabella Liu is an award-winning jewellery designer. In the few years since leaving Birmingham School of Jewellery, Liu has won awards in Italy and Spain, and has been awarded gold medals at the ‘Jewellery Oscar’ Goldsmiths' Craftsmanship and Design Award and Milan Expo as ‘the best new designer’ and ‘best product of the year’. The designer is proving herself worthy of such awards

JOYA Barcelona Art Jewellery & Objects 2019

JOYA Barcelona Art Jewellery & Objects 2019 10th, 11th, 12th, October 2019 Disseny HUB Barcelona, Spain JOYA Barcelona Art Jewellery & Objects is the main art jewellery and art objects event in Spain. Gathering a great number of independent artists as well as related organizations, schools and other entities. JOYA, in its 11th edition will be focused on the communicative and diplomatic meaning of the art jewellery and objects in nowadays. [youtube url=http://youtu.be/gBepnvf4bDg] Schedule Thursday 10th 10.00h – 11.00h Conference Pravu Mazumdar 11.00h Press presentation 11.00 – 19.00 Fair  18.00h DTerra Award – Ambar Magazine Award – Arte y Joya

2016-2017 International Pearl Design Competition Winners

Peter Bazar, President of the Cultured Pearl Association of America, Inc. proudly announces the winners’ of CPAA’S 2016-2017 International Design competition. “We are very happy with the success of this year’s competition, entries from 18 countries we received” Mr. Bazar reported. President’s Trophy  – “Murmuring Stream” Yi-Shiun Tsai of Taipei City, Taiwan .The highest honor awarded to a design that unanimously captivated judges as the best of the best. Luster Award  – “Dentelle” The Pearl Exporting Company of Portland, ME. Most marketable design for retail. Designer’s Award  –“Pearl Blossom” Wan-Fang Ting of Taipei City, Taiwan. Given to the entry that takes

Hockley Mint Shows Off Brand Refresh at IJL

Award-winning fine and bridal jewellery manufacturer Hockley Mint will unveil its updated brand identity at International Jewellery London this week. The firm’s new catalogues will feature stunning modern lifestyle imagery to reinforce the brand’s position as a high-end, award-winning bridal jewellery supplier. This brand refresh will also carry through to Hockley Mint’s website, which will include a section dedicated to its new designer bridal jewellery range. Gary Wroe, Managing Director of Hockley Mint, said,  “We are well-established as a leading British manufacturer of jewellery, but we hope that these new innovations will further raise Hockley Mint’s profile with retailers. Our

Best Actress Olivia Colman wears silver ERA5050 badge

The BAFTAs took place this week and Olivia Colman took the award for Best Actress for her role in  The Favourite . The BAFTAs are recognised for their importance in Britain but are also seen as an indicator for the Oscars which will happen on 25 th  February, later this month and as such garner international press coverage. Olivia Colman wore a specially commissioned silver edition of the Equal Representation for Actresses (ERA5050) badge to the ceremony, clearly seen on the red carpet, an organisation which is closely aligned with the Time’s Up movement. The badge which was designed by

DECIMUS

DECIMUS  - Salon Privé Hosted by The Goldsmiths’ Centre Held in the beautiful Exhibition Rooms, DECIMUS are staging an invitation only Salon Privé on 16th and 17th November 2017 at the Goldsmiths’ Centre in Clerkenwell, London. The event is a perfect opportunity for clients to enjoy the Goldsmiths’ Centre, meet a talented group of designers and try on their jewellery in the lead up to Christmas.  All artists will be available to discuss their work, design techniques and background stories. DECIMUS is a collective of 10 award-winning designers, selected for their individuality, unique design and the high quality of their

Genna Design 10 Year Anniversary Exhibition

The award winning jewellery business Genna Design is celebrating its 10 year anniversary this year. As part of this celebration, the jeweller will be showing its first solo show at which it will showcase the launch of a brand new 3D printed collection. The exhibition will take place on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th October between 12.00pm -5.00pm. As part of this celebration, the jeweller will be showing her first solo show and will showcase the launch of a brand new 3D printed collection. A feature of the event will allow members of the public to play with 3D design

Sima Vaziry Jewellery to open first shop at the OXO Tower

Sima Vaziry Jewellery & Katherine Elizabeth Millinery have come together and made the decision to open a boutique studio and shop in order to showcase their award winning creations. The attractive high end items on display will appeal to a wide audience who appreciate exquisite design and craftsmanship. Their strengths are that they have already been in business for many years and have successfully achieved a large client base and following. They are well known in the industry and have already showed their collections in high end venues such as Cliveden House, the Berkley, The British Museum and Fortnum and

Jewellery Mounter, Queensmith - Hatton Garden, London

The role Jewellery Mounter Queensmith Hatton Garden, London Queensmith is an award-winning, manufacturing jewellers based in Londonʼs diamond district, Hatton Garden. Part of the Hearts of London Group, we are a company of professional gemmologist and master goldsmiths. Specialising in made-to-order engagement rings, wedding bands and fine diamond jewellery, we are one of the youngest and fastest growing bespoke jewellers in London. Our state-of-art workshops, located in-store, create in excess of 2000 commissions annually. We are super passionate about the jewellery we create and are committed to fostering untapped talent and driving quality of the fine jewellery we create. The

jobs/Jewellery Mounter-queensmith-hatton-garden-london/

The role Optical Diamond Setter  Queensmith Hatton Garden, London Queensmith is an award-winning, manufacturing jewellers based in London's diamond district, Hatton Garden. Part of the Hearts of London Group, we are a company of professional gemmologist and master goldsmiths. Specialising in made-to-order engagement rings, wedding bands and fine diamond jewellery, we are one of the youngest and fastest growing bespoke jewellers in London. Our state-of-art workshops, located in-store, create in excess of 2000 commissions annually. We are super passionate about the jewellery we create and are committed to fostering untapped talent and driving quality of the fine jewellery we create.

Full / Part Time Sales Consultant, Anthony Paul Jewellery - Windsor

The Role Full /Part time Sales Consultant Anthony Paul  Windsor Are you a people person with a passion for jewellery? Do you understand the emotion behind a jewellery sale? Would you like to work for one of the Thames Valley’s leading jewellers? We’ve got the job for you. About us Anthony Paul Jewellery is an award-winning, family-run business with four boutiques across the Thames Valley. We specialise in handmade, bespoke, vintage and second-hand jewellery, as well as offering a comprehensive in-house repair and valuation service. It’s an exciting year to join us, as we’re celebrating our 40th anniversary. And we’re

Full Time Goldsmith / Jobber, Anthony Paul Jewellery - Windsor

The Role Full Time Goldsmith / Jobber  Anthony Paul  Windsor One of the Thames Valley’s leading jewellers is looking for a Goldsmith with an eye for detail to come and work in their on-site workshop. About us Anthony Paul Jewellery is an award-winning, family-run business with four boutiques across the Thames Valley. We specialise in handmade, bespoke, vintage and second-hand jewellery, as well as offering a comprehensive in-house repair and valuation service. You’ll be joining us in an exciting year, as we celebrate our 40th anniversary. About you We’re looking for someone to join our experienced team in our busy

Jewellery Designer, PureJewels - London E7

The role Jewellery Designer PureJewels London E7 PureJewels is a mutli award winning British brand with Eastern roots, devoted to celebrating the beauty of life with all its ebbs and flows. Through our unique jewellery designs, we connect moments of deep meaning to the precious pieces that accompany you on your life’s journey. Through growth and expansion of the business, we are looking to grow our in-house Design Team and hire an additional Jewellery Designer. The ideal candidate would be a jewellery design graduate, with a background in design, with experience of working with artisans and crafts people. We have

Jewellery Designer, Jacobs the Jewellers - Reading, Berkshire

The role Jewellery Designer Jacobs the Jewellers Reading, Berkshire Nationally recognised and award-winning Jacobs the Jewellers in Reading, Berkshire are looking for a new in-house Jewellery Designer to take care of this established and growing part of our business. We want you to meet clients, interpret their wishes and deliver great jewellery for them using our in-house workshop or outsourced network of trade contacts. If you’re organised, imaginative, bright, enthusiastic, experienced and wanting to make an impact, this is for you. If you’re starting out or less experienced in a design role, the position could have a retail executive element,

Davina Mallinckrodt Appointed as Chair of the Board of Trustees of Cockpit Arts

Davina has been confirmed in the role on 8th April 2021, following her appointment as Chair-Elect in December 2020. She succeeds Cornelius Medvei, who has held the post for the past nine years.  Davina joins Cockpit following a year in which the award-winning social enterprise and leading creative business incubator has successfully supported its 150 strong maker community through the pandemic. In addition to the 40 young creative businesses receiving awards and bursary support, in 2020/21 Cockpit has provided substantially reduced rents to its makers at its two hubs, Cockpit Holborn and Cockpit Deptford and successfully pivoted to digital delivery

Scientist-turned-Jewellery Designer wins support of Theo Paphitis & Kew Gardens

After beginning her working life as a lab-scientist, and spending 25 years in the NHS,  Sarah Greening now uses her science background to experiment with the chemistry of glass fusing in a kiln to create jewellery where each piece is completely unique, as are the techniques she uses. In its first year, Sarah's brand, Sarah Greening Glass, was one of the businesses selected for an award by Dragon’s Den Retail Entrepreneur, Theo Paphitis, as part of his initiative which supports small businesses in the UK. Paphitas meets with Sarah and the other winners annually, providing business advice from both himself and

Affordable elegance: Sustainable jeweller Lebrusan Studio unveils new collection of ethical cluster engagement rings

This month, leading ethical jewellery brand  Lebrusan Studio  lifts the lid on its new Daisy collection of delicate cluster engagement rings. Inspired by the iconic Edwardian daisy ring, these timeless pieces are designed to be lightweight and affordable. Cast in the customer’s choice of 100% recycled platinum or 18ct gold, each ring will be encrusted with traceable and conflict-free Canadian diamonds. Set and painstakingly hand-engraved in London’s Hatton Garden, each finished piece will tell a quaint story of enduring design and traditional British craftsmanship. “The difference between something good and something great is attention to detail,” says the brand’s award-winning

Eni Jewellery launches statement earrings in lead up to Christmas

The award winning 'Eni Jewellery' has launched two new earring designs ahead of Christmas, the 'Chain Earrings' and 'Unpaired Chain' earrings. The long Chain Earrings, made from eco fine silver, are statement piece with a playful movement, whilst the Unpaired Chain Earrings consist of a long chain link earring, and a stud. The mix and match earrings are made from eco fine silver and also offer a fabulous statement for bold accessorising.  Launched in London 2016 by Eleni Koumara, The brand has incorporated an eco friendly philosophy since inception, using eco and recycled silver and recycled promoting materials. The signature

Q&A: Gary Williams

Gary Williams is a Director at Presman Bullion Ltd, a company based in Hatton Garden which is one of the largest reclaimers, processors and recyclers of precious metal jewellery scrap, sweeps and residue services to the UK’s jewellery trade. He also sits on the Board of parent company, Mastermelt Ltd. Gary's career in the jewellery industry spans some 40 years, having started out working as a representative for a jewellery wholesaler, then for award-winning manufacturer Brown & Newirth Ltd, leaving as their Sales & Marketing Director. Gary was also a Director with Amore Cranleigh Ltd, a Surrey based retailer specialising

Benchpeg catches up with Karin Paynter

As part of our lockdown chats series, this week Benchpeg catches up with Karin Paynter. Its a long one, but worth a listen, as we go through Karin's career, and the skill sets she developed intentionally and unintentionally along the way. Karin is an Independent Consultant, the Strategic Lead for Contemporary British Silversmiths and the Creative Director of ERA5050, a campaign for gender balance on British Stage and Screen. [youtube url=http://youtu.be/O0qcGGd67C0] She’s also a Medway trained Jeweller and Silversmith, with an MA from the Royal College of Art, is an award winning Silversmith in her own right, has

Q&A: Jos Skeates

Jos Skeates a Goldsmith and the Co-Founder, along with wife Alison, of the leading, multi award winning, Central London jewellery boutique EC One the Jewellers. He is also the Chairman of the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council. He answers the Benchpeg Q&A. What’s your name, and what do you for a living? JS: Jos Skeates, Goldsmith and owner of E.C.One the Jewellers.  How did you come to work in the jewellery industry? JS: Total chance. I was looking for a summer job when I was sixteen and saw an advert for an apprentice Diamond Mounter. I’ve never looked back.  How

British Craft Trade Fair to run interactive online show for 2020

The British Craft Trade Fair (BCTF) has announced that it will run an online, interactive exhibition for designer-makers who are already signed up for this year’s event. The online show will be open to registered and approved buyers from June 14 – 15 (10.00 – 17.00) via the BCTF website , with this year’s BCTF award-winners being announced on Monday June 14 at 17.00. The next physical edition of BCTF will run as usual at the Yorkshire Event Centre in Harrogate from April 11-13. 2021 Show organiser, Margeret Bunn, said: “Like other exhibition organisers, we were forced to cancel this

Dazzle Contemporary Jewellery at Dovecot Studios Edinburgh

Dovecot Studios Edinburgh host Dazzle Contemporary Jewellery  22 August - 12 September 2020 Dovecot Studios, Edinburgh Dovecot Studios, Edinburgh is hosting two new exhibitions this August featuring the very best of contemporary jewellery and Scottish textiles, alongside world-famous tapestries and the mid-century designs of Mary Quant, Terence Conran, Laura Ashley, and Eduardo Paolozzi. From Friday 7 August, Dovecot Studios will fully reopen the world-famous tapestry studio to visitors for the first time since lockdown. Visitors have the opportunity to see Dovecot weavers at work on both rugs and tapestries in the award-winning building. Opening Saturday 22 August, Dazzle will present

Cockpit Arts Awards 2019/20

Call for Applications: Cockpit Arts Awards 2019 / 20 Five Awards at Cockpit Arts open for application Cockpit Arts are delighted to announce that there are four Cockpit Arts Awards now open for applications. All Awards comprise business support provided by Cockpit Arts as well as subsidised studio space for one year. The Cockpit Arts / The Worshipful Company of Basketmakers’ Award Open to a craftsperson practicing basket making. Our aim is to welcome a basket maker to Cockpit Arts to grow as an independent maker and business owner. Closing date - noon, 4 October 2019 The Cockpit Arts / Haberdashers’

Herbert Hofmann Prize 2020

The International Craft Fair in Munich, planned from March 11th to 15th, was unfortunately cancelled due to the spread of the coronavirus. Nevertheless, for the 47th time the coveted Herbert Hofmann Prize of the SCHMUCK special show was awarded to three goldsmiths and jewellery designers writes Ilaria Ruggiero. The jury, consisting of Prof. Otto Künzli from Munich, Prof. Jantje Fleischhut from Düsseldorf, Dr. Gert Bruckner from the Danner Foundation Munich and Dr. Sabine Runde from Frankfurt, met virtually on Friday, March 13, 2020 to select the three award winners: Melanie Isverding and Katrin Feulner from Germany and Carla Nuis from the

Chair of the Board of Trustees, Cockpit Arts

Call for Applications: Cockpit Arts Chair of the Board of Trustees Cockpit Arts wishes to appoint a new Chair to our Board of Trustees. We invite applications from individuals experienced in governance and with the commitment, qualities and attributes to effectively lead our award-winning social enterprise supporting craft, design and creative enterprise. Home to over 140 independent creative businesses, Cockpit is London’s leading studios for contemporary craft and the UK’s only business incubator for makers. Over 30 years, we have built an international reputation for quality, integrity and artistic excellence. In 2020 we were once again recognised on the NatWest

Diana Porter (1943– 2021)

Diana Porter award winning jewellery designer and champion of women’s rights, has died, aged 78.  Claire Wheeler of Diana Porter Jewellery wirites about her friend and colleague. A prolific creative mind, she was not only renowned for her innovative design but creating work with integrity and honesty. She fought tirelessly to raise awareness and promote gender equality and became a leading light for women within the jewellery industry.   In 1990 Diana went to the University of Central England at the age of 47 to do a 3 year full time degree course in Jewellery and Silversmithing. Diana focused her time at

Bench space available in shared studio London

Bench space available in shared studio London Bench space is available immediately in a lovely, light mews studio in Iliffe Yard, Kennington/Elephant & Castle, in the renowned Pullens Yard. It is ideal for a designer-maker. The bench comes with a 15 drawer Bisley cabinet for storage, bench peg and light. The set up is comprised of 1.5 benches per person, as the bench has the added bonus of a spare bench in between, creating a spacious working environment or for shared use when required (eg. soldering, computer work etc.) The studio was renovated by award winning architects and is well equipped with

Start up Workshops - Poplar Works

Call for Applicaitons: Poplar Works Start Up Workshops CFE , in collaboration with award-winning Housing and Regeneration Community Association Poplar HARCA,  are taking on  eight brand new solo and shared studio spaces will become available for emerging SME fashion and fashion tech businesses. CFE  is London’s pioneering fashion and fashion tech business incubator and part of London College of Fashion (LCF), a constituent college of University of the Arts London (UAL). The studios are situated within Poplar Works, an exciting new development in Poplar, East London, located at 384 Abbott Road, London, E14. Currently under construction, completion is expected end of September

Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council Launch the 19/20 'Jewellery Oscars' at IJL 2019

As well as hosting a programme of glittering events at this years' International Jewellery London, the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council also launched the 2019/20 edition of the Goldsmiths' Craft & Design Awards, lovingly dubbed the "Oscars of the Industry".  The annual GC&DC Awards inspire and encourage excellence and skills development among graduates, apprentices, designers and masters working in jewellery, silversmithing and the allied trades. This year is host to some interesting design briefs, centred around Endangered Species, reinventing the Champagne Glass, and Sustainable Jewellery. Previous recipients of the awards were on display, including  last years' Cartier Award winner Tony

Veronika Fabian: The Political Jeweller

Veronika Fabian is not your average jeweller. Born in a colony of artists in small-town Hungary, she originally rejected her creative roots, opting for a career in finance. After studying at the University of Economic Sciences in Budapest, and successfully forging a career in banking, she missed the tactility of art. Now a multi-award-winning contemporary jeweller, her work can be described as “a rebellion against her past”.  There’s not much that escapes the ubiquitous nature of politics, even jewellery. Veronika Fabian attributes her initial aversion from a career in the arts, in part to the post-communist state of her home-country,

Casting Call - Bling

Casting Call: Bling - A New Jewellery Show Twofour , an award winning television production company based in the South West, are in production of a brand new presenter-led TV series Bling! and are looking for people who would like to take part and visit our one-stop jewellery shop; a place where you can not only buy and sell your items, but also get new pieces made and old treasures fixed. British high street jewellers come in all shapes and sizes, as do their customers, from the nervous young man looking for the perfect engagement ring to someone who has inherited

Call for Applications: Craft Festival, Bovey Tracey 2020

Call for Applications: The Contemporary Craft Festival 2020 12 - 14 June 2020 Bovey Tracey, Devon Applications are open for the multi award-winning Craft Festival in Bovey Tracey. Craft Festival hosts multiple prestigious craft events in South West England and South Wales. Craft Festival Bovey Tracey is our Flagship Festival and is one of the UK’s largest and most loved craft events, hosting 200 diverse and talented makers of contemporary craft selling directly to over 10,000 people. The Festival includes StartUP, a specially curated area for businesses in the early stages of their career. To celebrate our wider European creative community, this

Adur & Worthing Trust Creative Commissions

Call for Applications:  The Adur & Worthing Trust Creative Commissions The Adur & Worthing Trust Creative Commissions are offering grants of  £300 – £700  to produce a new piece of work in any artform – visual arts, performance, music, film, photography, dance, digital, literature, craft and more – plus accompanying documentation (such as photographs, film, text or a combination of different media) that must be submitted at the end of the project. Your Commission must take place in Adur or Worthing, and must be completed by the end of January 2022. SWAG Award One additional commission this year will be

School of Jewellery present Goblet to British Allied Trades Federation

The School of Jewellery and HND Course Director Dauvit Alexander were delighted to recently present the finished award-winning goblet to Kate Owen, Past President of The British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) in the School’s Vittoria Street home. The BATF launched the competition at the School to provide an opportunity for students to design to commission, thereby promoting newly qualified talent in the industry.  Dating back to 1954, the BATF Presidency has been recognised by the addition of a solid silver goblet to the Federation’s silver collection. This collection was instigated to support and showcase craftsmanship and design. For the last three

Loewe Foundation Craft Prize

Call For Entries 2022 : Loewe Foundation Craft Prize The Loewe Foundation has opened the call for entries to the fifth edition of the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize, an international award celebrating excellence in craftsmanship. The Loewe Foundation seeks to recognise uniquely talented artisans whose artistic vision, technical skill and determination to innovate will set new standards for the future of craft. The winning works will be featured in an exhibition and accompanying catalogue in Seoul in Spring 2022. Applications are accepted from 20 July 2021 to 25 October 2021. craftprize.loewe.com

Studio Spaces at Fisherton Mill, Salisbury

Studio Spaces at Fisherton Mill, Salisbury Studio to let in the multi-award winning Fisherton Mill, the South of England’s largest independent art gallery & café with 13 onsite studios. It is set within a converted Victorian mill near the centre of Salisbury & is a vibrant & busy location. Fisherton Street is the main walking route to the railway station from the centre of Salisbury & is full of independent shops and businesses. We have a first floor studio available in this unique setting. Studio Details Measures approx. 11m2 Ideal for creative people & arts related businesses as office/showroom/studio. Unique city

Craft Festival Cardiff 2019

Craft Festival Cardiff  1 - 3 November 2019 City Hall, Cardiff This will be our 5th year at City Hall, Cardiff and you can meet over 130 of the UK's finest designers makers over two floors, in the heart of Wales' capital city. As well as meeting the makers, there are workshops for all ages, craft demonstrations and the great cafe. 10 Reasons to Visit Craft Festival Cardiff Reason #1 Craft Festival Cardiff is Wales’s largest Contemporary Craft Festival presenting over 140 of the finest, award-winning makers from all over Wales and the UK. Shop for ceramics, jewellery, textiles, furniture,

Goldsmiths' Centre Launches New Grant for 'Ambitious Learning Experiences'

Grants of up to £5,000 are being offered for 'ambitious learning experiences' as part of the Career Catalyst initiative, offered by the Goldsmiths' Centre, with support from the Goldsmiths' Company Charity and the Radcliffe Trust.  The idea was inspired by former Goldsmiths' Company Apprentice, award-winning jeweller and engraver Castro Smith, whose 2018 travels to Japan have informed and enhanced his recent work. In a similar vein, the Career Catalyst Grant is designed to encourage jewellers, silversmiths and others working in the allied industries to immerse themselves in an unfamiliar environment and develop an innovative approach to their practice. The grant

VIA Arts Prize 2019

Call for Applications: VIA Arts Prize 2019 The VIA Arts Prize, the UK’s only Ibero-American themed arts award has launched its 2019 Call For Entries, celebrating its fifth year. The VIA Art’s Prize’s mission is to deepen cultural awareness of Latin American, Spanish and Portuguese arts and cultures in the UK. UK-based artists of any nationality are invited to submit an original artwork specifically inspired by Ibero-American arts and culture. Through this specific brief, those behind the prize seek to promote the significant global and historical reach of Ibero-American art and culture, both past and present, and encourage intercultural exchange. 

2021 Jewellery World Awards

Call for Applications: 2021 Jewellery World Awards (JWA) The 2021 Jewellery World Awards (JWA), formerly known as the JNA Awards, is now accepting entries via  www.JWAwards.com . JWA launched three new categories to its roster - all of which were introduced to cover a wider scope of companies in the global jewellery and gemstone industry. Helmed by Informa Markets Jewellery, the world's largest B2B jewellery fairs organiser, JWA was founded in 2012 to promote innovation and excellence in the international jewellery and gemstone trade. Originally designed to celebrate achievements within the Asian region mainly, the award has grown tremendously over the years

The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair Online Provides Boost for Designer-Makers

So if there’s a hierarchy of how badly affected your sector is, when it comes to Covid 19, it’s safe to say that both the craft sector and events, come pretty high. The Crafts Council’s recent landmark survey ‘Market for Craft’ showed that 84% of makers surveyed cited fairs as their foremost revenue source. With the majority of  fairs cancelled due to the pandemic, the impact on makers has been devastating. Manchester’s award winning Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair (GNCCF) was one such casualty.  The annual GNCCF is one of the top fairs in the UK for makers and a

Isabella Liu showcases new collection 'The Butterfly Lovers' at t IJL 2019

Following the very successful launch of Isabella Liu’s new nature inspired collection, The Butterfly Lovers at the CMJ summer event, the award-winning International jewellery designer and artist will be unveiling new additional pieces at IJL 2019. The collection which pays homage to the beauty of Nature, draws on the classic Chinese legend of two lovers, Liang Shanbo (梁山伯) and Zhu Yingtai (祝英台), the Chinese Romeo and Juliet. In this the tale ‘The lovers’ spirits, in the form of a pair of butterflies, fly away together, never to be separated again’. This epic story has inspired musicians, artists and performers. Isabella

Master Craftsman urges industry colleagues to re-check gas safety

Internationally renowned silversmith Wayne Meeten has urged his fellow craftsmen to take care and re-check their workshop gas set up after he experienced a devastating explosion in his studio. The experienced craftsman, who a multi award winning, was  severely injured in his studio from a faulty regulator that was brand new. Hes said exclusively to Benchpeg: "I had know idea it was faulty regulator, as it was brand new. The technician at the store gave me wrong type. I had bought a complete new system and had it put together by a team of specialists. One did the compressor, one

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair - Online

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair - Online GNCCFonline: Christmas Edition 21- 22 November 2020 The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair (GNCCF) is  a curated showcase of designer-makers and craft artists, handpicked by an independent panel of craft experts to give you the best in cutting-edge design and beautiful craftsmanship . Great Northern Events, the not for profit company behind the award-winning Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair presents GNCCFonline: Christmas Edition  21-22 November 2020. GNCCFonline is an online selling showcase featuring 150 designer-makers selected for their excellence; from jewellery and fashion accessories to functional and statement pieces for the home. Director

Corrinne Eira Evans Opens new gallery shop

Award winning jeweller Corrinne Eira Evans and her talented painter partner, Olly Oliver, have opened up a handmade lifestyle gallery shop in the up and coming Victorian Arcade in Okehampton, Devon.  The historic building has become a hive of indie activity in recent months, with other small businesses opening up there.  On entering Moon & Moor you are meet with the soft aroma of handmade soaps, a homely room full of indoor plants, cacti, objects of curiosity, and a wealth of handmade pieces and original art adorning the walls. The pair are also passionate about skill-sharing. As well as a

So Fresh + So Clean 2019

Call for Entries: So Fresh + So Clean 6th Annual Ethical Metalsmiths International Online Student Exhibition and Emerging Artist Award Fresh: Work that’s happening now, challenging how we define the field of metalsmithing and jewelry. Clean: Objectively looking at where our studio practices intersect with environmental concerns and human health. Call For Entry Mission A Letter from 2019 EM Student Jury: We would like So Fresh + So Clean 2019 applicants to deeply consider how their work & studio practice builds on EM Student's dedication to innovative thinking in their approach to the field of jewelry and metalsmithing. It is

British Craft Trade Fair 2020 - Online

The British Craft Trade Fair (BCTF) 2020 Online 14 - 15 June 2020 The British Craft Trade Fair (BCTF) is about to launch its first ever online exhibition featuring thousands of new product launches from hundreds of British designer makers keen to reach retailers as lockdown ends. Registered buyers will be able to log in between 10.00 – 17.00 on June 14 – 15 via the BCTF web portal and the BCTF award winners will be revealed at 17.00 on Sunday June 14. BCTF Online will incorporate live chat between buyers and exhibitors and an enhanced online catalogue featuring video

Winston Churchill Memorial Trust

Call for Applications: Winston Churchill Memorial Trust Travelling Fellowships for artists/makers and arts in the built environment The Winston Churchill Trust awards travelling fellowships includes an artists and makers award category and is currently open for applications. If you are inspired by the work of overseas designers, have a project in mind to support craft skills or want to work with overseas craft people/designers and have a project in mind to advance practices in the UK design sector, find out more on the Trust’s website. A new category of Churchill Fellowship has been set up to fund travel that will

Crafts Council Launch Hardship Fund

Crafts Council Launch Hardship Fund The Craft Sector Hardship Fund will open at  11am on Wednesday 17 June Apply here The Crafts Council recognise this is an incredibly challenging time for makers and with generous support of  The Radcliffe Trust  they will be awarding 150 makers with a £500 bursary. They will award on a first come first served basis in order to get cash into makers hands as soon as possible. They are therefore relying on your integrity to only apply if you really need this help. Crafts sector hardship grant FAQs: Who is eligible? This grant is open

Jerwood Makers Open 2019 @ The National Centre for Craft & Design

Jerwood Makers Open 5 October 2019 – 19 January 2020 The National Centre for Craft and Design, Lincolnshire Jerwood Makers Open, now in its seventh edition, is a biennial opportunity that recognises and promotes the significance of making and materials within contemporary visual arts. This exhibition showcases new works and installations in textiles, ceramics, wood and metal, by five contemporary artists. The artists were selected from over 300 applications in response to a national call for proposals from UK-based makers and collaborators. The award and exhibition, which will tour to venues throughout the UK, freely allows makers to develop their

New Designers: winners of the Goldsmiths’ Company awards announced

New Designers, a platform promoting new creative talent from graduates, has announced the 2020 recipients of the Goldsmiths’ Company awards for jewellery and silversmithing. The winners are jeweller Coco Liang from Birmingham City University and silversmith Yitong Shang from the Glasgow School of Art. This year, the competition was held digitally with students encouraged to submit design ideas online. Centred on the theme of ‘community’, competition submissions needed to be ‘highly creative, thought-provoking, and capable of triggering discussion and debate’. Coco Liang’s ‘CONNECT brooch’ was named the winner of the Goldsmiths’ Company Jewellery Award. Coco commented:  “The brooch was inspired

Lebrusan Studio reveals an increase in searches of over 1,200% for shoppers looking for commitment rings

Award winning ethical jeweller, Lebrusan Studio, has today released figures that show an increase in searches of over 1,200% for shoppers visiting the site looking for commitment rings. The stats, gleaned from a comparison between January to March versus June to August, show that during the three months coming out of lockdown, more lovers were searching for the term ‘commitment ring’ than ever before. During the first quarter of the year, Lebrusan Studio saw 380 searches for this key term, compared with 5,378 in the last three, showing an exponential spike and an undeniable feeling that when all else fails,

Talent Spot: Six Exciting New Jewellery Designers to Watch from New Designers 2019

The array of talent on display at New Designers 2019 was phenomenal- it would appear the future of the jewellery industry is as sparkling as the displays that were on show. Following on from our recent exhibition review and award announcement , Benchpeg shines a spotlight on six exciting designers to watch. Tianyu Zhao  Tianyu’s work stood out at New Designer’s as a delightfully juvenile departure from the seriousness of the more traditional work on display. Working from a deliciously pastel colour-palette, she evokes the naivity of  childhood to instil the wearer of the “adult amulet” with the courage to

Jewelfund 2019

Call for Appliations: JewelFund 2019 £1000 Grant Available for Jewellers What is JewelFund? Since launching Jewellers Academy membership a year ago I have been so excited to see the progress of the 300 + jewellers that have joined us and committed to growing their businesses to date. There is so much you can do as a small business owner nowadays to but  I do know one of the barriers to growth can be money. This is why I’m so pleased to announce the launch of JewelFund for the second year.’ Jessica Rose. Award-winning founder of the Hatton Garden based London

The Making of a Silver Commission

The Making of a Silver Commission The Clothworkers’ Company hosts Contemporary British Silversmiths London Craft Week 2019 Friday 10 May 2019 In partnership with Contemporary British Silversmiths, the leading association for contemporary silver, The Clothworkers’ Company hosts a day of events, shining a light on the fascinating process of commissioning and making silver.Meet the makers during free demonstrations by award-winning silversmiths Miriam Hanid and Yusuke Yamamoto and learn about their live commissions for The Clothworkers’ Company during our lunchtime lecture. Both silversmiths have recently been commissioned to create major pieces for The Clothworkers’ Company. This one-day event offers visitors a

Allum & Sidaway Dorchester revamp wins customer approval

Award winning local jewellers Allum & Sidaway report a successful refit and festive period. The family run company closed for several weeks last autumn for a full revamp of their Dorchester head office including the expansion of their sales floor.  “We have been looking forward to creating a more luxurious retail destination for sometime now and are delighted to have invested further in our local high street.  We believe the design and features of our revamped store will prove a winning formula and are thrilled to see this has been reflected in a positive uplift of fine jewellery sales over

Daiwa Foundation Small Grants 2018

Daiwa Foundation Small Grants Grants of £2,000-£7,000 are available to individuals, societies, associations or other bodies in the UK or Japan to promote and support interaction between the two countries. In order to fund as many applications as we possibly can, given our limited budget, we typically award £3,000 to successful Small Grant applications. Our funding rarely covers an application’s budget in full, but is meant to be a “contribution” to the proposed project. What kind of project is eligible? Daiwa Foundation Small Grants can cover all fields of activity, including educational and grassroots exchanges, research travel, the organisation of conferences, exhibitions, and

Appointment: Cockpit Arts appoints Annie Warburton as new CEO

Cockpit Arts had announced the appointment of Annie Warburton as its new CEO.  After five years as Creative Director of the Crafts Council, Annie will join Cockpit in November. “Home to some of the foremost makers and designers in the country, Cockpit Arts is a beacon for making at the heart of the capital. I am thrilled to be joining this award-winning social enterprise with its admirable track record of social impact and business success. With craft in the ascendant but pressures on creative businesses intensifying, its mission has never been more vital. I look forward to working with the

Fire and Facets

Image credit- Left: Ami Pepper, Middle: Max Danger, Right: Shimell and Madden. Gill Wing Gallery presents​ Fire and Facets​, a pioneering collaboration of craftsmanship across the continents. The project has created new jewellery by leading contemporary British designers featuring opals from Australia’s famous Lightning Ridge. The exhibition takes place in Gill Wing’s beautiful gallery in Islington, the leading London destination for contemporary jewellery. Fire and Facets is guest-curated by renowned New York jewellery blogger A Thousand Facets and will reveal limited edition opal inspired fragrances specially composed by award winning perfumer Sarah McCartney, made in London at her indie perfume

Makers working with Glass in Jewellery

Call for Submissions: Makers working with Glass in Jewellery We are looking for jewellers or glassmakers interested in submitting images of their work and process for upcoming publication about Glass Jewellery. The book will written by Mirka Janeckova and published by Crowood Press, UK. Expected date of publishing will be early 2019. Book will be distributed internationally. About the Author Mirka Janeckova is  an award winning contemporary jewellery maker based in Edinburgh, Scotland, UK. She graduated from Glasgow School of Art in 2013 and from Royal College of Art, London in 2016. Her practice is based on interdisciplinary research –

Fei Liu Fine Jewellery introduce new silver Magnolia collection at IJL

Award winning brand Fei Liu Fine Jewellery have taken the natural beauty of the cat’s eye gemstone to offer a capsule range, which will be exclusive to their retailer partners. The Magnolia collection is a modern take on the namesake oriental flower. Floral motifs are largely epitomised across the eponymous designer Fei Liu’s jewellery. For this collection Liu sought inspiration from his art background and his love of oriental flowers. One painting that caught his eye was the ‘Almond Blossom’ by Vincent van Gogh. The painting not only uses understated colours and oriental flowers to allure the eyes, but also

Diana Porter Jewellery Celebrates 25 Years

This month award winning jeweller, UK Jewellery Designer of the year 1999, Diana Porter is celebrating her 25 th  year as a designer maker. To mark this special anniversary, she is launching a range of new Sibyls to add to her popular original collection. Diana focused her time at college on inequality within the arts. She researched ancient images of strong women and these stylised women pendants, which she called Sibyls developed from this. Her degree work was about women and empowerment and she designed the Sibyls with words to give the wearer something positive to focus on.  The 21

Appointment: Andrew Mills - New National Sales Manager at Hockley Mint

Birmingham fine and bridal jewellery manufacturer Hockley Mint has appointed Andrew Mills as National Sales Manager. Andrew will start with Hockley Mint on 30 April 2018 and will be responsible for all the company’s sales, client relationships and new business. Andrew joined the jewellery industry in 1995 as a sales executive at bridal manufacturer Brown & Newirth. In 2006 he and his wife, an award-winning jewellery designer, bought a small jewellery wholesale business, which she still runs today. He then moved to CW Sellors as wholesale sales manager before joining Hot Diamonds, in 2014, where he joined as Brand Manager

Kickstart Winner, Alice Barnes, to exhibit expanded 'Pleated' collection at this year's IJL

Having received the coveted ‘KickStart Industry’s Choice Award’ at last year’s International Jewellery London, Alice Barnes is set to return to the show this September with new additions to her Pleated Collection.  The prize included a complimentary stand at IJL 2018 and Alice will feature alongside some of the industry’s best talent in the prestigious Design Gallery on stand R28. “It was such an honour to win the award last year and I can’t wait to exhibit as an established designer,” says Alice. “As a KickStarter I made some invaluable contacts, gained several new stockists and received some great feedback

Elisavet Messi- Essential Jewellery focusing on Sustainability

Elisavet Messi, an award-winning jewellery designer, celebrates sustainability with her new ‘fragments’ collection. Despite the fact that her jewellery is defined by simple lines, they carry sculptural values that focus on the material’s properties.  With a minimalistic approach and belief in the purification of craft through good design; She tries to base her work on efficient essentialism; by embracing the truth of the materials used when possible. This approach results in minimal pieces with sculptural values. "It is quite a challenge to create based on simplicity; however it is also quite rewarding, when people focus on the material itself. You

2018 Oscar Jewels Adorn the Red Carpet and total some £21M for the night

Last Sunday’s 90th annual Academy Awards - more commonly known as the Oscars - are arguably the most prestigious awards and red carpet event of the year for the film and entertainment industry. This year was no exception with actresses waiving the black only dress code seen at previous award ceremonies this year, to make the most of the most prestigious event of the Awards year. It is estimated that the total value of watches and jewellery adorned on the famed Oscars red carpet this year was some $30 million [£21M]. High jewellery houses took advantage of the showcase, Chopard adorned

Natalie Perry secures La Maison Couture as new stockist

Ethical jewellery designer, Natalie Perry has partnered with La Maison Couture, which will see the designer enter the luxury online retail sector. The e-commerce boutique will stock 12 pieces from the contemporary Fairtrade Gold Floral Fragments collection, which includes Natalie’s signature filigree ear jackets, earrings, layering necklaces, bracelets and rings. Founder and curator of La Maison Couture, Tania McNab said of their partnership: “We are thrilled to launch a selection of exquisite fine jewellery pieces from award winning designer Natalie Perry, in our responsible jewellery edit at La Maison Couture. Hand made in the UK using ethically sourced 18ct Fairtrade

Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council hosts sell out ‘In Conversation’ with Cartier event

The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council hosted its first ‘In Conversation’ event of 2018, a special evening led by jewellery specialist Joanna Hardy, in conversation with Cartier, the world’s highly esteemed and respected jewellery Maison. The evening provided a unique opportunity to hear from Neil Battes and Vincenzo Marsico working with Cartier in London about their world and work, and the GC&DC’s prized Jacques Cartier Memorial Award. With questions presented by Joanna Hardy, the conversation took a vibrant behind-the-scenes journey through Cartier’s prestigious design studio, workshops and retailing experience - the exemplar for quality and excellence in craftsmanship - to

An ode to Sophie Harley's new characterful collections

The first time I saw a piece of Sophie Harley jewellery in person, I was captivated. The award-winning, British designer creates the kind of jewellery most of us dreamt of as young girls.  The kind of jewellery that once adorned our Barbie doll’s necks, formed stiffly from bulky plastic, heavily featuring swirls and love hearts, now cast into precious metals and set with sharply cut, radiant gemstones. Analise necklace and Venitian Wing & Amethyst Heart Drop earrings from the Brilliana Collection The Sophie Harley brand is striking; it remains true to itself whilst other brands may opt to lean towards

Salisbury Christmas Market 2018

Salisbury Christmas Market 2018 Call for Applications: Salisbury Christmas Market Bookings are being taken for the 2018 Salisbury Christmas Market event taking place Salisbury Guildhall Square from 29 November until 23rd December 2018. More details online . Salisbury Christmas Market transforms the heart of this beautiful medieval Cathedral city into a winter-wonderland with its authentic German market-style Chalets and festive events. Proudly returning to the historic Guildhall Square for the 7th year, the Salisbury Christmas Market 2018 will see the return of many award-winning exhibitors and products, plus an exciting calendar or festive events throughout the city. We are currently taking bookings for

‘Masterpiece’ Stolen From Master Silversmith

Wayne Meeten has described himself as “totally devastated” at the loss of his prize winning Mokume Gane silverware piece. The piece, a solid silver truffles container, was stolen from his workshop and was stored in a 9” wooden box at the time. The inspiration for the piece came on a trip to the Grand Canyon, which formed the basis of the silverware vessel design. It went on to win the Grand Prize Saul Bell International Craft Award 2011. Tessa Murdoch, Acting Keeper Department of Sculpture Metalwork, Ceramics and Glass at the V&A called the work a “Masterpiece”. The piece of

Alex Monroe launches new Jewellery School

One of Britain's best known jewellery designers Alex Monroe has launched a jewellery school in his recently completed award-winning studio in Bermondsey in London where he will take the lead in passing on his techniques and passion in a series of themed tutorials. After months of planning and preparation, the ‘Alex Monroe Jewellery School’ will open this month, launching with a theme special to Monroe. It has been 10 years since he launched his iconic and much admired Bumblebee necklace and finally he will let his first 10 Jewellery School customers  into his secret as to how it came about,

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair 2018

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair 2018 Now in its 11th year, the Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair is the North’s largest and most established annual celebration of contemporary craft. Set in a Grade 2 Victorian market building in the heart of Manchester on Deansgate, this award-winning event hosts over 150 of the UK’s finest designer-makers and craft artists.  All exhibitors taking part have been specially selected for their excellence, with jewellery, interior and fashion textiles, ceramics, glass, furniture, print and more on show. Meet and talk to the makers and discover the inspiration and stories behind their work. This is

Make Your Mark Awards 2019 Winners Announced

Now in its third year, the Make Your Mark award ceremony, organised by the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office, was held on Tuesday as part of the wider Make Your Mark event. The event, and the competition, were designed to celebrate and promote the British Hallmark.  As the event is largely geared towards newcomers to the trade, the competition has two entrance categories, one for industry members who completed their training within the last 5 years, and one to accommodate those who are a little earlier in their careers, for students and apprentices.    Dr Robert Organ, Deputy Warden of the

Weston Beamor team earns full set of Fairtrade certificates

Weston Beamor have started 2018 with a flurry of activity with the entire customer service division earning their Fairtrade Gold Sales Ambassador Certificates of Accreditation. Training for the certificates was prompted firstly by their award recently ‘Ethical Jewellery Business of the Year’ and also by the increasing curiosity among customers for a jewel's back story such as material origins and the supplier's trading practices. So each member of the 12-strong customer facing team took to their computers and completed the Fairtrade Foundation’s online ‘Fairtrade Gold Sales Ambassador Certificate of Accreditation’ courses. It means the team is familiar with how the

Sarah Straussberg creates 4th Photo London ‘Master of Photography’ Trophy

For the fourth consecutive year, London-based sculptor turned jewellery designer Sarah Straussberg has created the trophy for winner of the Photo London ‘Master of Photography’ award. Her commission was landed after the 2018 trophy went to Edward Burtynsky whose work focuses on the damage man has caused the earth through industry and mining. The Canadian photographer uses cutting edge technology to create large scale photographs - often two metres wide - depicting areas of human intervention such as his aerial picture of the open pit copper mine at Logan Lake, British Columbia. As she has done previously, Straussberg immersed herself

Cockpit Arts Awards

Call for Applications: Cockpit Arts Awards Cockpit Arts are once again looking for talented makers to join their community. They ahave a variet of Awards open for application, comprising subsidised studio space and business support for one year. The Cockpit Arts Ros Stracey Ceramic Residency Open to a ceramicist who has a strong desire to experiment and take risks with their practice; we are looking for makers who demonstrate originality, innovation, creativity, craft skill and quality in the work and concepts presented. Closing date = noon, October 5 2018 The Cockpit Arts / The Worshipful Company of Basketmakers’ Award **

Jewellery Designers meet Queen at London Fashion Week

This week Her Majesty The Queen visited London Fashion Week to present the inaugural Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design. While at the event the Queen also met a number of jewellery designers who were exhibiting as part of the Designer Showrooms. Her Majesty was greeted upon arrival at London Fashion Week by Caroline Rush CBE, Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council. The Queen toured the Designer Showrooms to view the collections and met Rock Vault jewellery designers  Completedworks ,  DAOU ,  Frances Wadsworth Jones ,  Lily Kamper ,  Rachel Boston ,  Shimell and Madden  and Headonism designers

Could 2018 mark new crypto era for UK jewellers?

Attempts to persuade UK gold dealers and jewellers to embrace the cryptocurrency Dash in their business plans in 2018 could enjoy a surge of activity following the award of 'wallets' of digital cash to 10 jewellers around the country. As part of a project to promote wider use of digital currency among retailers, a market survey, conducted in conjunction with the National Association of Jewellers last November, asked 2200 NAJ about their plans for the future use of Dash, an alternative to Bitcoin. A total of 201 companies responded, including some of the largest UK firms in the sector, many of them

Turquoise Mountain Announce New Collaboration with Sima Vaziry

Turquoise Mountain was established in 2006 at the behest of HRH the Prince of Wales and they now work in Afghanistan, Myanmar and the Middle East. Turquoise Mountain, a British not-for-profit organization, aims to support traditional Afghan craft by connecting artisan businesses with designers and retailers across the globe. This latest collaboration unites Sima Vaziry, an award-winning jewellery designer and maker based in London, with Afghan jewellery businesses based in Kabul. Afghanistan’s population is made up of several ethnic groups or tribes. Despite these tribes collectively residing in the region for hundreds of years they each have their own distinctive

Sian Evans Second Aluminium collection, Pars Pro Toto, Crosses the Boundaries of Art, Design and Fashion

Sian Evans is an award-winning British Jewellery designer, living and working in London. Her new collection, Pars Pro Toto, was launched at Paris Fashion Week last year to wide acclaim.  Sian’s love of archaeology, fashion, nature and technology; the history of tools and materials have informed her collections since she started her creative practice. Sian Evans Jewellery was first established in 1986, developing into an international label during the 1990s.  Sian is a lapsed fossil collector, brought up on the Jurassic coast in Dorset where she studied Geology. She has created pieces which are reminiscent of microscopic fossils, diatoms and

Varoshe to open showroom in Kent - from handcuffs to handmade!

The handcuffs are off at a former police office in West Malling in Kent as bespoke jewellers Varoshe prepare for the grand opening of their flagship store following more than a year of restoration and restyling. Award-wining team Paul T Owens and Clare Carlson, who between them have 50 years experience of designing and making jewellery, will roll out their brand new showroom on April 21st with their own custom made designs proudly exhibited and their on site workshop ready for new commissions. They will also stock items from various designers, both established and emerging, showcasing the best in British

Angela Georgiou gets new branding with Clout

Shropshire based bespoke luxury jeweller, Angela Georgiou has had a complete brand refresh courtesy of global branding experts, which has successfully strengthened the positioning and identity of the jewellery brand. The jewellery designer who uses inspiration from her Greek Cypriot heritage, re-imagines found and personal antiquities, turning them into unconventional, contemporary pieces for a UK and international client base. Award winning Clout Branding were appointed towards the end of 2017 by the jeweller to help create a more distinct positioning and brand identity within the luxury sector. The new identity, which is focused around the idea of ‘The past re-imagined’

It's In Our Hands - One Year On, Ethical Making Symposium

It's In Our Hands - One Year On, Ethical Making Symposium This Symposium is aimed primarily at jewellers and silversmiths, but is relevant to makers of all disciplines who have an interest in adopting an ethical approach in their practice. Speakers Speakers will include award winning British Fairtrade ethical jeweller and environmental activist, Greg Valerio MBE; jeweller Ute Decker; researcher Dr Peter Oakley; founder of the Precious Metals Workshop, Ian Nicholson; and Jane Barnett and Theodora Panayides of consultancy and social venture, Levin Sources.  Speakers will discuss the importance of implementing an ethical approach and how to face the challenges

Jerwood Makers Open 2018

Call for Applications: Jerwood Makers Open Jerwood Makers Open, now in its seventh edition, is a biennial opportunity and seeks to support exceptional skill and imagination in what are traditionally described as the applied arts. JMO has established itself as one of the best regarded opportunities for makers in the craft calendar. The award and exhibition freely allow makers to develop their creative ideas and further their practice independently of specific commissioning structures. The resulting work will be shown in a group exhibition as part of the Jerwood Visual Arts programme at Jerwood Space in London next summer, before touring

Appointments: Simon Forrester appointed new NAJ CEO

Association Chief Executive Simon Forrester has been confirmed as the new CEO for the National Association of Jewellers. Simon is a successful trade association leader, with over 22 years’ experience in strategic-level association management. Extremely well regarded by his peers, Simon has previously won the award of Trade Association Chief Executive of the Year in 2016 and his most recent association, The British Pest Control Association, has received several awards and nominations under his leadership. He has a track record of delivering increased member benefits, training courses, governance reviews, best practice and a substantial code of conduct linked to purchaser

Learn Hand Engraving in London - Evening Class

Learn Hand Engraving in London Autumn Programme These popular courses are back and the Hand Engravers Association is delighted to announce its autumn programme. Whether you are a complete beginner or a professional jeweller looking to diversify your skills - the 'Hand Engraving: Basic Principals' courses are an in depth introduction to the techniques and tools of hand engraving. Taught by award winning tutor Wayne Parrott, class sizes are kept to just eight students. Upcoming Dates: Three Day Intensive Courses: Dates: 9-11 September 2017 Times: 10am-6pm Dates: 4-6 November 2017 Times: 10am-6pm Venue St Lukes Community Centre, 90 Central St, London EC1V

Learn Hand Engraving in London - Three Day Intensive Course

Learn Hand Engraving in London Autumn Programme These popular courses are back and the Hand Engravers Association is delighted to announce its autumn programme. Whether you are a complete beginner or a professional jeweller looking to diversify your skills - the 'Hand Engraving: Basic Principals' courses are an in depth introduction to the techniques and tools of hand engraving. Taught by award winning tutor Wayne Parrott, class sizes are kept to just eight students. Upcoming Dates: Three Day Intensive Courses: Dates: 9-11 September 2017 Times: 10am-6pm Dates: 4-6 November 2017 Times: 10am-6pm Venue St Lukes Community Centre, 90 Central St, London EC1V

EU Prize for Women Innovators

Call for Entries: EU Prize for Women Innovators The European Commission has launched the fifth edition of the EU Prize for Women Innovators to award women entrepreneurs who have achieved outstanding innovations and brought them to market. Apply by 15 November 2017 and follow us on #WIPrizeEU. Carlos Moedas, Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation, said:  "The EU Prize for Women Innovators gives public recognition to outstanding women entrepreneurs and inspires other women to follow in their footsteps" [youtube url=http://youtu.be/dI7Edk3WzLw] Prizes Four cash prizes will be awarded to the most innovative women entrepreneurs: First Prize: €100 000 Second

Learn Hand Engraving in London - Three Day Intensive Course

Learn Hand Engraving in London Autumn Programme These popular courses are back and the Hand Engravers Association is delighted to announce its autumn programme. Whether you are a complete beginner or a professional jeweller looking to diversify your skills - the 'Hand Engraving: Basic Principals' courses are an in depth introduction to the techniques and tools of hand engraving. Taught by award winning tutor Wayne Parrott, class sizes are kept to just eight students. Upcoming Dates: Three Day Intensive Courses: Dates: 9-11 September 2017 Times: 10am-6pm Dates: 4-6 November 2017 Times: 10am-6pm Venue St Lukes Community Centre, 90 Central St, London EC1V

IJL Announce The Ten New Talented KickStarters for 2017

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In-house Efficiencies Give Hockley Mint the Competitive Advantage

Award-winning Birmingham-based jewellery manufacturer Hockley Mint has reported that streamlined internal processes and efficiencies have resulted in a significant drop in the average cost to manufacture its wedding rings, with these new lower prices being passed on to its retail customers.  In addition to these new cost savings, at the forthcoming Jewellery & Watch trade fair (stand 17R30/S31), Hockley Mint will be offering customers exclusive promotions and discounts on products ordered at the show. Gary Wroe, managing director of Hockley Mint, said: “The major benefit of being a leading UK manufacturer is that we can set our own prices and

Daiwa Foundation Small Grants 2017

Grants of £2,000-£7,000 are available to individuals, societies, associations or other bodies in the UK or Japan to promote and support interaction between the two countries. In order to fund as many applications as we possibly can, given our limited budget, we typically award £3,000 to successful Small Grant applications. Our funding rarely covers an application’s budget in full, but is meant to be a “contribution” to the proposed project. What kind of project is eligible? Daiwa Foundation Small Grants can cover all fields of activity, including educational and grassroots exchanges, research travel, the organisation of conferences, exhibitions, and other projects and events

The Hidden Garden Collection by Sarah Ho

Multi award-winning Sarah Ho, has reported a successful show at Vicenzaoro in January. She showcased her next into the realm of high jewellery in The Design Room, a new concept area for the show featuring 12 international jewellery designers and was a destination for press and retailers alike. “The show was very successful for us. We met international retailers from a number of countries including Japan, Russia, and Mainland Europe, opening new international accounts at the show. The Hidden Garden masterpieces were admired and revered by both retailers and the press alike and we have a number of positive avenues

Winners Announced: Amberif Design Awards 2017

This year's winners of the Amberif Design Award have been announced. The competition's theme for the year was 'Periphery', a brief chosen to send entrants to take a closer look at the zone between set and free. An overwhelming number of 124 international artists from 25 countries travelled to this undefined area and explored its options and limits. By sending in a design or photo, they presented to the competition's jury their inspiration, road map or point of view. To dig a little deeper into the thematic theemes of the brief questions arose from entrant's submissions: What can happen when

Learn Hand Engraving with the Hand Engravers Association

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Christmas Open Studios 2016, Cockpit Arts - Holborn

Join Cockpit Arts in their 30th Anniversary year and meet 170 makers over two centres in central and south London. Visitors can see behind the scenes in the studios and buy work direct from Cockpit Arts’ master craftspeople and artist-makers, past and present. Ceramicists, jewellers, textile artists, shoemakers … and a host of other crafts· Featured showcase selection by Jo Newton, Head of Buying for Fashion Beauty and Home, Fortnum & Mason Delicious food by Hand Made Food café The Holborn Magazine pop-up shop Cockpit Arts is an award winning social enterprise and the UK’s only business incubator for craftspeople,

Christmas Open Studios 2016, Cockpit Arts - Deptford

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Joanna Hardy Launches The World’s First Online Jewellery School

Acclaimed global jewellery specialist Joanna Hardy has launched her own online jewellery school at Masterpiece this year. The school features an interactive online classroom where you get personal advice from Joanna and is powered by award winning internet company, www.learningwithexperts.com Joanna explained, “My intention is to create a world class online jewellery school, where enthusiastic amateurs or professionals can be introduced to the world of jewellery. I’m expecting people ranging from interested hobbyists, career changers, professionals wanting to improve their knowledge – right through to members of the boutique high-end jewellery trade. Through my course I can teach you wherever

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CityMade.UK, a group of five award-winning designer-makers, present an antidote to mass market products at their upcoming show at the Society of Designer Craftsmen Gallery in Shoreditch. Marshall Colman (ceramics), Euan Cunningham (graphics), Adam Hussain (glass), Tori McLean (textiles) and Jessica Noble (jewellery) bring craft skills to contemporary design, creating high quality, unique objects. Colour features strongly in this show, which references a Mid-Century Modern aesthetic. Marshall Colman   Euan Cunningham Adam Hussain   Tori McLean     Jessica Noble   They are all members of the Society of Designer Craftsmen, which has been promoting high quality workmanship for over

The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council Awards Exhibition

The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council Awards 2017 Through this unique competition, The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council promotes excellence in jewellery, smallwork, silversmithing and the allied crafts. These industry focused awards are open to everyone practicing in the UK. Eligible work must have been designed and/or made in the 12 months since the previous competition. All work submitted is judged by experts drawn from their specialist fields within the profession. The competition culminates in a prestigious awards evening at Goldsmiths’ Hall followed by an exhibition of award winning pieces and selected entries. Venue Goldsmiths’ Hall 13 Foster Lane London

Jerwood Makers Open

Following a national call which elicited 271 submissions, Sam Bakewell, Juli Bolaños-Durman, Jessica Harrison, Marcin Rusak and Laura Youngson Coll have been selected for Jerwood Makers Open 2017, a unique commissioning opportunity recognising the most exciting new talents in contemporary applied arts. Each artist will receive an award of £7,500 to realise and make new work. The resulting work will be shown in a group exhibition as part of the Jerwood Visual Arts programme at Jerwood Space in London from 28 June –27 August 2017, before touring nationally. Jerwood Makers Open is a biennial opportunity encouraging ambitious and/or radical proposals

Hidden, RCA

The RCA’s technical staff have a wealth of skills knowledge as staff and students know well – from an award-winning photographer, to Lady Gaga’s shoe designer. To the outside world, these remarkable talents are hidden away.  Hidden  celebrates some of their most innovative creative work. The week-long exhibition will showcase work by over 40 technicians across the College, including an exciting mix of jewellery and textile design, painting and sculptures, as well as handmade bespoke cars and interactive virtual realities. Hidden  will showcase many well-known designers and artists including Natacha Marro, a world-renowned shoe designer. Celebrated for wild and visually

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The Role Workshop Assistant / CAD Designer 3- 4 days a week ​E.C. One Clerkenwell, London E.C. One is the award winning jewellers based in Clerkenwell, London who are renowned for offering both designer and precious fine jewellery. Voted as  ‘The Most Inspiring Jewellers in the UK’  as well as  ‘Best for Fashion’ , and  ‘Best Boutique Jewellers’ . We are currently looking for a Workshop Assistant/ CAD Designer to join our happy team. About the Workshop Assistant / CAD Designer Role EC One’s workshop creates bespoke work for our clients as well as producing in-house collections for our store. The busy

Make Your Mark Awards 2017

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Mappin & Webb Launch Beau Han Xu Glasswear Collection

Mappin & Webb has announced a collaboration with award winning RCA graduate designer and artist Beau Han Xu. Drawing on nature and the ethereal, the London based designer captures and preserves inspirational moments in his creations, particularly the split second of beauty as a raindrop bursts with a splash. Continuing a silver and glassware tradition spanning more than 240 years, Mappin & Webb continues pioneering innovation with this latest, exclusive product collaboration. The Collection An exquisite collection of twelve elegant glass shapes has been created, including Red, White, Rosé, Martini, Cocktail, Whiskey, Cognac, Shot Glass and, of course, Champagne, with

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International Fashion Showcase 2017 Winners Announced

The British Council, British Fashion Council (BFC) and Mercedes-Benz have announced the winners of the International Fashion Showcase, in a prize-giving ceremony at Somerset House, London earlier this week. Sarah Mower MBE, BFC Ambassador for Emerging Talent and Chief Critic Vogue Runway, and Bettina Haussmann, Senior Manager Sponsoring and Product Placement Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars, presented  The International Fashion Showcase Designer Award  to Younchan Chung of the-sirius for his impressive design showcased in the Korean installation. For the first time, Mercedes-Benz presented the winning designer with the unique opportunity to showcase their collection at Milan Fashion Week, one of over 50

Workshop Assistant / CAD Designer, E.C. One - Clerkenwell, London

The Role Workshop Assistant / CAD Designer 3- 4 days a week ​E.C. One Clerkenwell, London E.C. One is the award winning jewellers based in Clerkenwell, London who are renowned for offering both designer and precious fine jewellery. Voted as  ‘The Most Inspiring Jewellers in the UK’  as well as  ‘Best for Fashion’ , and  ‘Best Boutique Jewellers’ . We are currently looking for a Workshop Assistant/ CAD Designer to join our happy team. About the Workshop Assistant / CAD Designer Role EC One’s workshop creates bespoke work for our clients as well as producing in-house collections for our store. The busy

It's In Our Hands - The Future of Ethical Making in Scotland

It's In Our Hands - The Future of Ethical Making in Scotland by The Scottish Goldsmiths Trust and DJCAD at the University of Dundee This Symposium on Ethical Making is aimed primarily at jewellers and silversmiths, but is relevant to makers of all disciplines who have an interest in adopting an ethical approach in their practice. The day will be animated by a fantastic panel of speakers, including Greg Valerio MBE,  award winning British fair trade ethical jeweller and environmental activist; jeweller Ute Decker; silversmith Karen Westland; Tim Ingle of ethical jewellery brand Ingle & Rhode; researcher Dr Peter Oakley

Jeremy France rolls out the red carpet for Fei Liu

On Friday 21st October, Jeremy France Jewellers welcomed British Jewellery Designer of the Year, Fei Liu, to showcase his entire collection of award winning designs - officially launching his recent addition to the family jeweller’s exclusive brand list.  Guests were greeted with champagne and invited into the three-storey luxury showroom by a grand red carpet entrance; what else could one expect from a VIP ‘Meet the Designer’ soirée?! Situated at the very heart of Winchester High Street, there were whispers from passing shoppers that perhaps Royalty was inside! Fei was on hand all evening to introduce his collections, giving Jeremy’s

Adi Toch Finalist for The LOEWE Craft Prize 2017

Adi Toch has been  selected as a finalist for the  international Loewe Craft Prize 2017,  an annual international award celebrating excellence in craftsmanship. LOEWE seeks to recognise uniquely talented artisans whose artistic vision and will to innovate will set a new standard for the future of craft.  26 works have been selected as finalists by the Experts Panel out of almost 4,000 participants.  LOEWE Craft Prize 2017 entrant piece - Encircling Vessel from Whispering Vessels Series Works have been submitted to the Jury for their final decision this month and will form part of a touring exhibition.  The winning work

Chinese Designer RUI XU Makes A Stand For Wildlife

Following on from her successful exhibition Beauty On Fire – For Zaha at the Zaha Hadid Gallery (in memory of her friend and muse – the late, great Dame Zaha Hadid), Rui Xu is firmly cementing her position as a leading designer in the UK. Rui Xu is an award-winning Chinese fashion designer and contemporary artist whose works bridge fashion, painting, music and performance, blurring the boundaries of culture and aesthetics.  She was the Director of Fashion at China Central Academy of Fine Arts Beijing (CAFA), and now lectures at the university as an Associate Professor. After a year of

Gang of thieves raid Cotswold Arts and Craft Museum

A gang of thieves launched a raid on the award-winning Court Barn Arts and Craft Museum and in what looks to be a premeditated crime, took off with a number of silver pieces dating back to 1900. The items taken range from pieces by architect and designer Charles Robert Ashbee (1863-1942), Hart Silversmiths who joined Ashbee in Campden in 1902 and who still make silver today and designer Robert Welch (1929-2000). They include a silver pendant in the form of a butterfly with wings of enamel and a blue enamel pendant, c1902. The Museum opened in 2007 to  preserve and

Peruvian gold miner joins Hertfordshire jewellery designer to thank Fairtrade supporters

On Friday 7th October, Hertfordshire-based bespoke jewellery designer Harriet Kelsall played host to a Peruvian gold miner who is in the UK to highlight how Fairtrade has boosted his community and saved lives. Roger Arcos Ponte, from Macdesa mine, told an audience of customers, local school children and people interested in ethics about the difference Fairtrade production standards have delivered for his fellow miners and their families. Multi-award winning designer Harriet said: “Welcoming Roger here today for our Fairtrade Festival is one of the proudest moments of my life. It has been amazing to hear personal accounts of how the

Match Funded Places at Cockpit Arts

Match Funded Studio Opportunities at Cockpit Arts Cockpit Arts is an award winning social enterprise and the UK’s only business incubator for craftspeople, housing up to 170 small businesses at our two centres in central and south London. We support craft practitioners at the start of their careers, as well as those who are more established, to grow and build successful and thriving businesses both in the UK and internationally. Studios Available We’ve got two opportunities for talented makers to join our Cockpit Arts community on match-funded places comprising studio space and support for one year. The Cockpit Arts /

Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council Awards Welcome The Judges Line-Up 2017

The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council has concluded three weeks of successful judging for its 2017 Awards, with an illustrious line-up of industry experts helping to select this year’s winners. Featuring over 100 judges, deliberations for the Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council Awards drew from the knowledge of celebrated designers, makers, retailers and experts across jewellery, silversmithing and the allied trades. Among new judges involved in the 2017 Awards were Liz Olver, design director at Annoushka, Julia Clarke of award-wining retailer Hester Clarke, and notable winner from the 2016 Awards, designer John Moore. British jeweller Shaun Leane was also handpicked

Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council Holds VIP Industry Reception

A VIP  industry focused  reception was held at The Goldsmiths’ Centre last week ,  honouring  the current Patrons, Sponsors and Contributors of the annual Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council Awards, and to encourage new companies and individuals to become supporters for the 2018 Awards.     The VIP event included the unveiling of a new behind-the-scenes video showcasing the 2017 awards and judging, and an exclusive  interview with Paul Jones, winner of  2017 The Jacques Cartier Memorial Award, who, to the amazement and bemusement of a the spellbound guests, demonstrated how his outstanding mystery revolving clock functions. Paul Jones spoke about

International Pearl Design Competition Eighth Edition: 2017-2018

International Pearl Design Competition Eighth Edition: 2017-2018 Pearl is the artist’s muse; jewellery brings forth the fullest and highest expression. Officially launched during the JCK show, Las Vegas, the contest will run through September 21, 2017. Winners will be announced on November 2, 2017. Winning entries will be on display during the AGTA and JCK shows in 2018. Celebrating one of the worlds' most prized and mysterious gems, this contest invites artistic expression inclusive of all pearl varieties. Whether you are a seasoned artist, award winner, or beginner you are welcome and your design aesthetic is needed. All entries have

16th Alloy Graduate Showcase - Herefordshire

Alloy Jewellers will present the 16th Alloy Graduate Showcase taking place at The Courtyard, Hereford opening on 12th May until 30th June 2017. The exhibition will be open at the Courtyard until the 30th June 2017 and features jewellery from this year’s Alloy Graduate Award Winners; Rachael Harman and Marcella Andersen They will be joined by past winners Rose Grant, Elizabeth Terzza, Amelia Strong, Melissa Morgan, and Annie Mackay Alloy is a Herefordshire based group of jewellers, small metal workers and silversmiths at different stages of their careers. Formed by Mike Gell in 1993, the aim of the group is to

Angela Gillies Sees Winning Design Hallmarked In London

Currently  studying Jewellery and Metal Design at the University of Dundee  Angela Gillies, winner of  the 2017 Ingle & Rhode Fairtrade Gold Design Award has had her winning piece hallmarked by the London Assay Office. Angela’s winning piece entitled ‘Nestled’ has been cast and was taken to the London Assay Office to be hallmarked and stamped with the Fairtrade mark last week. Made in Fairtrade 18ct white gold and set with a 0.5ct round brilliant cut Canadian diamond, Angela’s ring is designed to allow a wedding ring to tuck in underneath the feather, so that the two rings will sit

Philip Kydd Apprentice wins Gold at Jewellery Oscars

James  Kydd , silversmithing apprentice under his master (and  father) Philip  Kydd , recently had a very  successful evening at the Goldsmiths ’  Craft and Design Council Awards  – the  ‘ Oscars ’  for the jewellery and  silversmithing trades. The ceremony was held in the pre stigious  and beautiful surroundings of Goldsmiths ’  Hall in London.  James won the  Gold Award  in the Junior Craft category ;  the  Gold Award  in the Junior section of the  Polishing category; the  Bronze  Award for  Setting; and the  Special Award  (presented for the first time this  year) for  ‘A n appropriate design that

Top female metalsmiths team up for UK campaign

Some of the UK's most distinguished female metalsmiths are set to launch a new campaign to promote the craft in Britain by exhibiting as a collective at the inaugural TRESOR Contemporary Craft in Basel, Switzerland next month. In a pioneering move, the group of award-winning internationally acclaimed artists, including Simone ten Hompel, Rebecca de Quin, Ane Christensen, Adi Toch and Juliette Bigley, will collaborate with a range of individual pieces and a specially made film which focuses on each artist and the craft.  “We’ve worked beside and with each other, shared workshops and taught each other so it is particularly

Hockley Mint Welcomes Peruvian Fairtrade Gold Miners to Birmingham

Award winning fine jewellery and bridal jewellery manufacturer Hockley Mint welcomed Peruvian Fairtrade gold miners to it's factory in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter earlier this month, producing a video of the visit that it will use to promote Fairtrade gold on its website and across social media platforms. Peruvian Fairtrade gold campaigner Dajhanna Zarate, who is the daughter of a gold miner in Sotrami, was accompanied by Macdesa miner Roger Arcos Ponte on the visit to Birmingham. The two guests were in the UK as part of a wider Fairtrade gold campaign with the Fairtrade Foundation, and were invited to Hockley Mint

Call for Applications: Artists in Schools Residencies

Applications are now invited for Cove Park's 2017 Artists in Schools residency project. Cove Park will award two funded residencies, of two weeks each, to individual artists working in any medium with experience and/or a desire to extend their practice into education.  Artists working in Visual Arts, Craft & Design, Literature, Performance, Film etc. are welcome to apply.  The Artists in Schools residencies are part of our wider public engagement programme called  Hands-On Cove Park .  They will take place concurrently during May 2017. Artists on residency are given the time, space and financial support to concentrate upon the development of their work. 

Beau Han Xu launches with a SPLASH!

Beau Han Xu, London is a new, innovative and luxurious lifestyle collection created by the award-winning jewellery designer and artist Beau Han Xu. His works include SPLASH! - The Beau Han Xu Diamond Couture Jewellery Collection. Inspired by Nature and the Ethereal, Beau is driven by the desire to freeze frame inspirational moments in time in his creations: a raindrop’s splash and the subtleties of light playing on light. Beau Han Xu is a graduate of the Royal College of Art, where he specialised in Goldsmithing, Silversmithing, Metalwork and Jewellery (GSM&J). In 2015 Beau showcased his SPLASH! Diamond Couture Jewellery

MOSTYN Open 20

The call for submissions for the 20th anniversary edition of the MOSTYN Open contemporary art exhibition, to be shown from July 2017. Since its inception in 1989, the MOSTYN Open has nurtured and presented the talent of established and emergent contemporary artists internationally. The exhibition of selected works takes place at MOSTYN, with a cash prize of £10,000 awarded to a single artist or collective. In addition, the 'Audience Award' grants a cash prize of £1,000 to those who receive the most votes from visitors during the exhibition. MOSTYN Open 20 is open to artists working in any medium. There

Fei Liu Fine Jewellery Launch New Bridal Collection

Displayed in a luxurious black wooden box, against the hues of wine, the  Fei  Liu Fine Jewellery bridal rings glisten. Couples can cherish the new chapter with the men’s and ladies edition of the award-winning designer rings. Best known for their signature Cascade Collection, the Designer of the Year 2016 has translated the flowy floral lines through to their bridal rings. The exclusivity of the bridal collection has been limited to the carefully chosen top ten retailers.   The bestselling collections will be available in a variety of precious metals for that perfect ring. Each collection’s design is distinctively unique

The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair

The GNCCF celebrates its 10th anniversary from 12 - 15 October 2017. Applications are now open for this leading award-winning show in the North from UK and international designer-makers working across all craft disciplines including ceramics, glass, jewellery, fashion design, textiles, leather, metal, mixed media, print-making, furniture, wood and sculpture etc. 150 exhibitors will be selected by an independent panel of craft experts. Subsidised stands for new makers in business less than 3 years and shared stands available. How to Apply Apply on line at www.greatnorthernevents.co.uk

Rosie Fortescue Speaks to Benchpeg about Launch of 3rd Jewellery Collection

Rosie Fortescue Speaks to Benchpeg about Launch of 3 rd  Jewellery Collection Made in Chelsea’s fashion and style blogger Rosie Fortescue will be launching her third fashion forward jewellery collection at this week’s Scoop trade show. The BAFTA award winning reality TV personality is also an acclaimed fashion blogger and style writer in her own right, with her website At Fashion Forte being a destination spot, where she highlights current trends, her top picks and shows off her own inimitable look. The super trendy Rosie is now combining TV appearances and fashion writing with becoming a jewellery designer, having launched [youtube

Alexis Dove Re-Locates to Lewes High Street

Award winning jewellery designer Alexis Dove proudly launched her newly located store this week, on Lewes High Street, East Sussex. Having moved from a quaint boutique and studio in The Needlemakers, the new location opened its doors to VIP guests, press and longstanding customers for a festive night of fun and celebration. An invite only event, the party was attended by over 125 guests, who enjoyed a selection of delicious wines donated by long time customer, British TV presenter and wine expert Olly Smith. Championing her passion for all things eco after a trip to two Fairtrade accredited gold mines

Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council Launch 2017 Competition

The Goldsmiths ’ Craft & Design Council will return to exhibit at International Jewellery London from 4 - 6 September with a new stand and new location of T50, on the mezzanine and perfectly situated by this year’s designer jewellers . As always , GC&DC’s presence at IJL marks the launch of the Council ’ s annual competition, which has helped and encouraged many careers in the jewellery and silversmithing profession. Its welcoming new stand at T50 will provide details of the 2017 competition and features work from a number of 2016 award winners. Members of the Council, including Chairman

IJL 2016 Announce KickStarter Winner

Marina Skia has been voted by the industry as the winner of the eighth IJL 2016 ‘People’s Choice’ award and will receive a free stand in the IJL Design Gallery in 2017. Marina Skia is currently Artist in Residence at Sir John Cass, London Metropolitan University. She cleverly identified people and organisations with large groups of followers, mainly through Facebook, to engage their support of her campaign. This included several fashion bloggers as well as Cass students, staff and friends on Facebook. Her strategy paid off and her campaign reach grew thanks to numerous shares, new followers and messages of

Call for Applications: Loewe Craft Prize

Loewe has launched a new award celebrating excellence in craftsmanship, the Loewe Craft Prize. Sponsored by the Loewe Foundation, the Craft Prize expands the commitment of the Spanish house to preserving unique savoir-faire. The Loewe Craft Prize aims to recognize the values that bridge craftsmanship and contemporary culture in every discipline. The prize will be given to outstanding works of craftsmanship that pair an original artistic concept with a modern application of traditional methods. The prize also pays tribute to precise execution, respect for materials and the functional and aesthetic value of the work. “Craftsmanship has immense importance for me

All That Glitters: Britain's Next Jewellery Star - Series 2

Call for Applications: All That Glitters: Britain's Next Jewellery Star - Series 2 Twenty Twenty Productions Limited are responsible for making award winning programmes such as First Dates, The Choir, A House Through Time and most recently BBC’s Two’s brand new show, All That Glitters: Britain’s Next Jewellery Star and they are on the hunt for people to take part in the next series.  The current series is presented by Katherine Ryan and judged by industry experts Shaun Leane and Solange Azagury-Partridge and is on air from 8pm Tuesday 13 April, BBC2. Call for Applications - Series 2 ‘All That Glitters Britain’s Next Jewellery

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Nude Jewellery Celebrates 20 Years of Successful Business

After 20 years of successful business Nikki Galloway, owner and award-winning designer, is celebrating Nude Jewellery's 20 th  anniversary.  Reflecting on the anniversary, Nikki said, ‘ Twenty years on and I’m still really enjoying myself, no two days are ever the same and we are constantly evolving as a business. I love creating bespoke designs for clients and also new designs for our website. ”  In the past few years Nude Jewellery has specialised in creating exclusive gemstone engagement rings offering unique and modern designs. “I’m busier than I have ever been during 2020/21, and look forward to what the future will bring,

Sp-Ring Exhibition @ Anne Morgan Jewellery

Sp-Ring Exhibition Anne Morgan Jewellery, Penarth, Wales 14 February - 31 May 2020 Exclusive contemporary jewellery exhibition showcases cutting edge alternative engagement and wedding rings from UK designer/makers this February. This February 14th sees the return of the annual Sp-Ring exhibition at Anne Morgan Jewellery. An award winning contemporary jewellery maker in her own right Anne also owns and runs her beautiful shop and gallery in Penarth, in the Vale of Glamorgan. Now in its third year, the exhibition continues to go from strength to strength, showcasing high-end work from some of the UK’s most celebrated and visionary independent jewellery designers.

Q&A: Guðbjörg Kristín Ingvarsdóttir

Guðbjörg Kristín Ingvarsdóttir is a goldsmith, Jewellery designer and co-founder of the award-winning sustainable jewellery brand Aurum, Iceland's leading jewellery brand. Guðbjörg began her career studying goldsmithing at Copenhagen Technical College, completing her journeyman’s examination in 1993. She completed her master craftsman examination in goldsmithing at Reykjavík Technical College in 1994, subsequently returning to Copenhagen to study jewellery design at the Institute for Precious Metals.  Guðbjörg collaboratively ran the jewellery workshop Au-Art in Copenhagen from 1996 to 1999, before returning to Iceland where she founded the design and jewellery firm Aurum. Guðbjörg’s jewellery designs have attracted much attention worldwide and

News Edit: 17 March 2019

A round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Old-cut diamonds and fantastical gems: TEFAF Maastricht's unmissable jewels The Telegraph: It may be a royal pain to get to, but TEFAF (The European Fine Art Fair) in Maastricht, the Netherlands, is worth the trip. www.telegraph.co.uk Steeple Bumpstead goldsmith with Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery wins industry 'Oscar' HaverHill Echo: A jeweller from Steeple Bumpstead has won a gold award in The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council Awards 2019, the industry’s ‘Jewellery Oscars'. www.haverhillecho.co.uk Kate Middleton has a collection of earrings from just one designer worth £47k Express: Kate Middleton, 37,

Q&A: Rosie Fortescue

BAFTA award winning reality TV personality, fashion blogger, style writer and jewellery designer  Rosie Fortescue answers the benchpeg Q&A. What’s your name, and what do you for a living? RF: Rosie Fortescue, jewellery designer and fashion blogger. How did you come to work in the jewellery industry? RF: I have been obsessed with jewellery for as long as I can remember so it seemed the natural progression of fulfilling my dream. How would you describe your work to someone who doesn’t know it? RF: I design affordable luxury jewellery from women of all ages. What is your creative process? RF: I write down

Orcadian Jewellery Designer, Sheila Fleet, opens new Glasgow Store

This Friday see's the opening of Orkney jewellery designer, Sheila Fleet's new store in Glasgow. The new store will sit amongst other premium retailers within the award-winning retail and leisure destination, Princes Square.  In addition to showcasing Sheila Fleet’s many collections, the new shop will feature some very special jewellery that’s been created using rare Scottish gold. Sheila Fleet is one of only two jewellers authorised to receive gold from Scotland’s only gold mine, at Cononish near Tyndrum, so this unique range is sure to be an additional draw for Glasgow customers. Image caption or copyright  Months in planning and

GNCCF Manchester & GNCCF Sheffield

Call for Applications: GNCCF Manchester & GNCCF Sheffield 2018 Applications are now invited from designer-makers & artists working in ceramics, jewellery, interior textiles, fashion design & accessories, print-making, wood, lighting, furniture, product design, glass, metal, basket-making and more. GNCCF Manchester will return for its 11th edition from 11 - 14 October 2018 as a headline event of Design Manchester, a two week city-wide festival of exhibitions, talks, debates, workshops and conference. The multi-award winning GNCCF is one of the leading selling events in the UK featuring over 150 of the UK's top designer makers.  GNCCF Sheffield is a partnership with

Weston Beamor Announce Winner of BCU Live Project 2018

Birmingham City University's School of Jewellery student Kai-Blu Triassi has won the annual Weston Beamor  Live Project  with his contemporary geometric ‘Dyad’ engagement and wedding ring set design. Kai-Blu’s award was announced on the WB stand at this year’s Jewellery & Watch show. Kai-Blu impressed judges with his striking and bold ring set, commercial-focus, unique design and understanding of thickness and tolerances, demonstrated through his strong CAD modelling skills. The annual competition is open to all BCU SoJ students in their second year of a Higher National Diploma in Jewellery Manufacturing. Commenting on his win, Kai-Blu said,  "I'm really pleased to

News Edit: 11 November 2018

A round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Jewellery Designer And Celebrity Favourite Fernando Jorge Opens London Showroom Vogue: With his award-winning designs worn by the likes of Beyoncé and Emilia Clarke, Brazilian-born jewellery designer Fernando Jorge marks his first decade in London with an appointment-only showroom . www.vogue.co.uk Bejewelled £115,000 Rare Champagne Launched The Drinks Business: Piper-Heidsieck has launched a super rare edition of its prestige cuvée Rare adorned with hundreds of tiny diamonds, which has gone on sale at Harrods with a £115,000 price tag. www.thedrinksbusiness.com Removing items in ears and noses 'costs NHS £3m a

Emma Watson sparkles in Forevermark at MTV Awards

Actress Emma Watson took to the red carpet at the 2017 MTV Movie & TV awards, Los Angeles, looking as stunning as her winning preformance in blockbuster film 'Beauty and The Beast'.  The 27-year old actress was the first to win the show's 'genderless award'; celebrating talent over gender abilities; a meaningful statement Emma made sure to highlight throughout her speech.  Collecting her gong for 'Best actor' in the gender-neutral category for her performance as Belle in 'Beauty and The Beast', Emma triumphed in the limelight thanks to her sequined asymmetrical halter-neck dress. Juxtaposing the elaborate sparkle with a sharp

Creative Stars Join London Craft Week at Official Opening

This week more than 500 artists, designers, makers, artisans, collectors and patrons of craft descended on the V&A to celebrate the beginning of London Craft Week 2017, which takes place across London from 3 - 7 May. Notable guests in attendance on the night included Hussein Chalayan, Johnny Coca, Tom Dixon, Stephen Jones OBE, Bill Amberg, Lady Carol Bamford and Azzi Glasser plus various international stars including Korean artist Do Ho Suh, Hong Kong designer Elaine Yan Ling Ng and third generation Spanish guitar maker, Felipe Conde.  Award-winning fashion designer Hussein Chalayan presented acclaimed potter Edmund de Waal with the

Nadine Aysoy makes eye-catching IJL debut

London-based designer Nadine Aysoy made a dazzling IJL debut when she scooped the 2017 Editors Choice 'Show Stoppers' Award for displaying the single most eye-catching exhibit of the show. Her Mille et Une Feuilles 18k rose gold ring, set with one 14mm South Sea Pearl and 164 round-cut diamonds, turned the heads of the judging panel of magazine and digital editors, who praised its leaf design and admired it for having 'drama, intrigue and beautiful craftsmanship.’ “I love Nadine’s aesthetic and the consideration she puts into the market she’s targeting,” one judge commented. “Hers are pieces for grown-ups and designs

Diploma In Art & Design Level 3, K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

  K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery  Autumn Short Courses 2017 Introductory Courses Course Title: Award In Art & Design Level 2 Duration: 12 Week Course, One Day A Week Dates: 13 Sept 2017 - 29 Nov 2017 Diploma Courses Course Title:  Diploma In Art & Design Level 2 Duration:  Year Long Course, 1 Day A Week Dates:  14 Sept 2017 - 14 Sept 2018 Course Title:  Diploma In Art & Design Level 3 Duration:  Year Long Course, 2 Days A Week Dates:  11 Sept 2017 - 11 Sept 2018 Short Courses Course Title:  Experimental Setting Duration:  4 Day Course Dates: 

Nambé Celebrates Successful UK Launch Event

Designer lifestyle brand, Nambé, hosted its official UK launch event on June 29, giving retailers, buyers, journalists and social media influencers the chance to see its extensive ranges for the first time.  The award-winning brand took over a private room at London’s popular Hoxton Hotel to bring its lifestyle collections to life, while also displaying its new sterling silver jewellery offer that impressed buyers at JCK Las Vegas earlier this year. Representatives from jewellery retailers and department stores were particularly impressed with the brand’s wide-ranging giftware items, including wedding, baby, new- home and special occasion items. Buyers in attendance also

Art & Design Level 2 Course, K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

  K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery  Autumn Short Courses 2017 Introductory Courses Course Title: Award In Art & Design Level 2 Duration: 12 Week Course, One Day A Week Dates: 13 Sept 2017 - 29 Nov 2017 Diploma Courses Course Title:  Diploma In Art & Design Level 2 Duration:  Year Long Course, 1 Day A Week Dates:  14 Sept 2017 - 14 Sept 2018 Course Title:  Diploma In Art & Design Level 3 Duration:  Year Long Course, 2 Days A Week Dates:  11 Sept 2017 - 11 Sept 2018 Short Courses Course Title:  Experimental Setting Duration:  4 Day Course Dates: 

Contemporary Wax Carving & Wax Modelling, K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

  K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery  Autumn Short Courses 2017 Introductory Courses Course Title: Award In Art & Design Level 2 Duration: 12 Week Course, One Day A Week Dates: 13 Sept 2017 - 29 Nov 2017 Diploma Courses Course Title:  Diploma In Art & Design Level 2 Duration:  Year Long Course, 1 Day A Week Dates:  14 Sept 2017 - 14 Sept 2018 Course Title:  Diploma In Art & Design Level 3 Duration:  Year Long Course, 2 Days A Week Dates:  11 Sept 2017 - 11 Sept 2018 Short Courses Course Title:  Experimental Setting Duration:  4 Day Course Dates: 

Diploma In Art & Design Level 2, K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

  K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery  Autumn Short Courses 2017 Introductory Courses Course Title: Award In Art & Design Level 2 Duration: 12 Week Course, One Day A Week Dates: 13 Sept 2017 - 29 Nov 2017 Diploma Courses Course Title:  Diploma In Art & Design Level 2 Duration:  Year Long Course, 1 Day A Week Dates:  14 Sept 2017 - 14 Sept 2018 Course Title:  Diploma In Art & Design Level 3 Duration:  Year Long Course, 2 Days A Week Dates:  11 Sept 2017 - 11 Sept 2018 Short Courses Course Title:  Experimental Setting Duration:  4 Day Course Dates: 

Alternative Wedding Showcase 2017, Tomfoolery

Tomfoolery London’s 2017 Alternative Wedding Showcase has successfully launched its stunning collection of innovative jewellery lines. Hailed as the destination for alternative fine jewellery, this show promises to be an essential edit for the discerning bride or groom. To mark the 5th anniversary of this annual event Tomfoolery will be hosting exclusive bridal trunk shows with award-winning designers Polly Wales and Ruth Tomlinson.  The show features Unique Engagement Rings; Wedding Bands; Eternity Bands; Bespoke Ring Service; Bridal Jewellery Styling; Bridesmaid Jewellery; Cufflinks; Designer Trunk Shows. Dates 18th March - 6th May Polly Wales Trunk show: 1st and 2nd April Ruth Tomlinson Trunk

Sell Out Event with Jewellery Superstars

The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council (GC&DC) has witnessed stellar ticket sales for its upcoming ‘In Conversation’ evening, featuring British jewellery superstars Stephen Webster and Theo Fennell. Tickets for the event sold out in early January, more than a month before the evening at London’s Goldsmiths’ Centre on February 15th 2017 . Bringing together two of the UK’s foremost jewellers to share personal anecdotes and insight from their careers, the GC&DC’s In Conversation series has become a must-attend event in the jewellery calendar. Jos Skeates, GC&DC chairman and founder of award-winning retailer EC One, will compere the event. Skeates said, 

Nambé Celebrates Strong Debut at JCK Las Vegas

Designer lifestyle brand, Nambé, enjoyed a positive reception at this year’s JCK Las Vegas (June 5-8), welcoming international media, buyers and retailers to its booth ahead of its London launch event on June 29.  The award-winning brand impressed its existing retail partners and prospective clients with its recently-launched sterling silver jewellery collection and giftware assortment. Initially debuted in the United States in September 2016, Nambé Jewellery proved immediately popular with the brand’s loyal homeware customers who recognised its signature, sculptural aesthetic. Its initial roll-out in 400 doors across the US and the reaction of retail partners at JCK Las Vegas proves