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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

Introducing Lux of London: A New British Jewellery Label

A new British jewellery label creating multifunctional 3 in 1 jewellery pieces inspired by the luminosity and transient nature of the full moon. Set up by Hinna Azeem, who is the creative director at H.AZEEM London, Lux of London is all about jewellery that can transform and be worn in many different ways. Turn rings into pendants, pendants into bangles and seamlessly back again in a matter of seconds using simple mechanisms of clips, loops and slides. Just like transient nature and luminosity of the moon phases, every Lux lets the wearer change their look to suit their mood and

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

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

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

The Art of Collecting Cartier: An Eye for Excellence

Meta-Luxury: Brands and the Culture of Excellence

Jewellery glitterati to launch Leopards Awards for Excellence in Jewellery

The inaugural Leopards Awards for Excellence in Jewellery is set to get top billing at a Goldsmith's Hall Gala dinner next week, flagging up a new British campaign to raise the profile of British designers and encourage jewellery training among young people from underprivileged backgrounds. Organised by a group of leading lights in the UK jewellery profession, the Gala Awards will be the first official event to showcase the work and plans of the Leopards, who were fornmed in 2016. They include designers Solange Azagury-Partridge, Shaun Leane, Theo Fennell and Stephen Webster plus Carol Woolton, jewellery editor of Vogue magazine

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

Aw18 Global Collection launched by Annie Haak

Annie Haak takes inspiration from  "the wondrous world that we live in, through the diversity of all walks of life that we see on a daily basis"  in her newest collection for AW18 entitled 'Global Collection'. The fascinating shapes that are prominent throughout this varied collection reflect the ever-changing imprint of life that we as humans create. From spectacular geographical architecture which has been captured in the form of our stunning “Shard” pieces, to the new intricately detailed globe charm to symbolise the world  "as we strive to work together as one". The Global Collection includes a variety of styles

The Blancpain Ocean Commitment Global Concept

Blancpain’s commitment to the underwater world took on a new dimension in 2014 with  ocean exploration and preservation under the label 'Blancpain Ocean Commitment', as well as with the launch of the first series of Ocean Commitment limited edition watches. Today, three years, ten expeditions and four million square kilometers of protected ocean later, Blancpain reconfirms its commitment with the recently launched all-blue limited edition.  Driven by a resolutely pioneering spirit since its founding in 1735, the Manufacture Blancpain has enjoyed historical links with diving for more than 60 years, more precisely since the 1953 launch of the Fifty Fathoms

Pandora and UNICEF forge new global partnership

Pandora and UNICEF have announced a new global partnership to support the world’s most vulnerable children to lead healthier and safer lives and fulfil their potential. The three-year partnership between the international jewelry retailer and the United Nations Children’s Fund will also fund life skills training, with a focus on programmes that support female empowerment. Every day, girls are vulnerable to losing out on their education due to poverty, cultural practices and poor infrastructure. Violence and conflict also play a part in preventing girls from getting an education. Girls’ education goes beyond getting girls into school. It is about ensuring

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

Visual Capitalist:: Charting the Rise and Fall of the Global Luxury Goods Market

The Visual Capatalist has reported on a post pandemic overview of the global luxury goods market predicting a decline in purchases. The Rise and Fall of the Global Luxury Goods Market - the Executive Summary Global demand for personal luxury goods has been steadily increasing for decades, resulting in an industry worth $308 billion in 2019. However, the insatiable desire for consumers to own nice things was suddenly interrupted by the coming of COVID-19, and experts are predicting a brutal contraction of up to one-third of the current luxury good market size this year. Will the industry bounce back? Or

Global Luxury Trends: Innovative Strategies for Emerging Markets

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

Gemfields launches ‘Every Piece Unique’ global campaign to highlight responsibly sourced coloured gemstones

Gemfields launches ‘Every Piece Unique’ global campaign to highlight responsibly sourced coloured gemstones Gemfields, the world’s leading supplier of responsibly sourced coloured gemstones, has launched a global advertising campaign with Gutenberg Global and adam&eveDDB in order to raise awareness of responsible sourcing in the coloured gemstone industry and promote Zambian emeralds and Mozambican rubies. Gemfields believes that coloured gemstones should be mined and marketed by championing three key values [youtube url=http://youtu.be/gOuvHIlYlVo] – transparency, integrity and legitimacy – and seeks to challenge itself and the sector by setting new benchmarks for responsible sourcing. The campaign was designed to bring

Birmingham's historic JW Evans silver factory goes global

A glimpse into Britain's bygone age of silver has been rolled out to a worldwide audience after the historic JW Evans Silver Factory in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter was chosen to feature in a new series of virtual tours produced by English Heritage and Google Arts and Culture. Until now, the 19th century silversmith factory, which opened in 1881 and closed 127 years later with all the old tools, machinery and half-finished silverware still in place, has been open just two days a fortnight, offering guided tours only. But after the new partnership, between English Heritage who bought it from the

Twitterville: How Businesses Can Thrive in the New Global Neighborhoods

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

AJF Solo Exhibition Award 2025

Call for Applications: AJF Solo Exhibition Award 2025 Art Jewelry Forum (AJF) is pleased to announce this grant opportunity for artists of any age and nationality. Established by jewelry collector Linda Peshkin, who lives in Scottsdale, AZ, US, this $20,000 grant has as its objective to support the creation of a solo exhibition to advance an artist working in the field of art jewelry. The jury of distinguished professionals for this grant cycle will be:  Caroline Broadhead  (UK),  Mike Holmes  (US), and  Grace Lai  (New Zealand/Aotearoa). Caroline Broadhead  explores objects that come into contact with and interact with the body in

Shopping habit shift: Global data reveals that fashion shoppers now spend more via their phones than their computers

A new global study of ecommerce in fashion, conducted by Nosto, reveals that customers are finally spending more on their mobiles than traditional online shopping- 44% vs 46% (the remainder being purchases on tablet devices). Nosto’s findings are based on an analysis of the first comprehensive analysis of shopper behavior in growth-stage fashion ecommerce for 2019 based on an analysis of 1.2 billion site visits for the 12 months of 2018. : 95% of the stores in the sample generate online sales between $500k and $30m, a minimum of 1k monthly site visits and a minimum of 300 orders a

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

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

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.  

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

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,

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

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

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

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

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

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

Global Gold ETF holdings drop by 175 tonnes, the largest level of net quarterly outflows since 2013

Gold prices came under significant pressure since the start of the year, correcting by 13% during the first three months, and trading at near nine-month low at end-March.. Investment demand for bars and coins jumped by 40% driven by bargain hunting and growing concerns about rising inflationary pressures and currency stability Sentiment shift towards gold among the professional investor community, as evidenced by strong outflows from gold ETFs. Gold ETF investors liquidated 175 tonnes in the first quarter of the year representing the largest level of net quarterly outflows since Q4 2013 according to Refinitiv Metals Research. It was also

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,

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 -

New Studio 'The Smiddy' to Launch with a Project that Celebrates Local Crafts People

Vanilla Ink’s is throwing open its doors for its first expansion in beautiful Banff. The brand new, recently renovated The Smiddy: Centre of Excellence for Silversmithing & Jewellery, will open to the public on September 22nd – and for their first project and exhibition, they want to hear from you! The Royal Borough of Banff is richly steeped in silversmithing heritage, with locally made silver fetching great interest and fantastic prices at auctions. Vanilla Ink mean to revive that history, firmly returning local craft to the global silversmithing map. This is where you come in; to help the revive tradition,

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,

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.

Stirling Jeweller Wins Women’s Enterprise Scotland Award

Gillian Crawford, founder of Stirling-based Lily Blanche, has emerged triumphant at the prestigious Women’s Enterprise Scotland Awards 2022 after picking up the Embracing Technology award. Luxury jewellery company, Lily Blanche, won the Embracing Technology Business of the Year prize sponsored by HFL Holistic Financial Leadership at the Women’s Enterprise Awards. The glittering ceremony took place at Glasgow’s Voco Grand Central Hotel celebrating established and emerging business leaders across ten categories. The event was the first one to take place since the pandemic with guest speaker Nicola Sturgeon opening the event. Lily Blanche is thrilled to have won the Embracing Technology

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

Cockpit Open Studios - Winter 2023 - Bloomsbury

Cockpit Open Studios - Winter 2023 - Bloomsbury An Open Studios event from London’s leading makers 23 - 26 November 2023 Cockpit is a centre for excellence in craft, bridging the gap between talent and opportunity. We are an award-winning social enterprise, home to 160 independent creative businesses in London. Twice a year we open our doors to the public, for the opportunity to meet some of the world’s most celebrated craftspeople in their studios. Surrounded by their tools, materials and work-in-progress, this is a rare authentic glimpse behind the scenes and a chance to hear first-hand about their inspiration, process

Cockpit Open Studios - Winter 2023 - Deptford

Cockpit Open Studios - Winter 2023 - Deptford 2 - 3 December 2023 Cockpit is a centre for excellence in craft, bridging the gap between talent and opportunity. We are an award-winning social enterprise, home to 160 independent creative businesses in London. Twice a year we open our doors to the public, for the opportunity to meet some of the world’s most celebrated craftspeople in their studios. Surrounded by their tools, materials and work-in-progress, this is a rare authentic glimpse behind the scenes and a chance to hear first-hand about their inspiration, process and the often meandering journeys they’ve been

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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’

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

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

Appointment: David Beckham Appointed Ambassadorial President, British Fashion Council

The British Fashion Council (BFC) is delighted to announce the appointment of David Beckham OBE, in a newly created role of Ambassadorial President. The global role will have an initial two-year tenure and will support the organisation in its goal to build networks and partnerships in the United States and Asia. David will partner closely with the BFC team to help the BFC boost support for the British fashion industry on a global scale – raising the profile of emerging British fashion talent with the global investment and media communities alike. Taking on this new role is an incredibly proud

Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council Launch 2019 Competition at IJL

The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council is set to return to International Jewellery London inorder to formally launch the 2018/19 edition of its annual competition. These prestigious Awards inspire and encourage excellence and skills development among graduates, apprentices, designers and masters working in jewellery, silversmithing and the allied trades. At IJL stand S118, the GC&DC will showcase a number of winning pieces from its 2017/18 awards, demonstrating excellence in creative design and craftsmanship. A number of short films will also be on show, offering visitors exclusive insight into the winners and workings of these annual awards.   Speaking of the GC&DC’s

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

Call to Action on Climate Change: Responsible Jewellery Council Webinar

Call to Action on Climate Change - An Overview of the Jewellery Sector Join a panel of sustainability experts and RJC members as they discuss how to engage with climate action. Part of the RJC SDG Roadshow in partnership with United Nations Global Compact.   CLICK HERE TO REGISTER The business community, including the global jewellery and watch industry, has committed itself to reducing its impact on the planet and to increasing its engagement with climate action. And, during COVID we have seen companies struggling with the crisis continue their commitment to sustainability and responsible business. What can we learn from each other and

The Luxury Institute recommends building brand equity through generosity and kind deeds in light of Covid-19

The Luxury Institute has published two White Papers in light of the Covid-19 global pandemic crisis. ' Luxury Institute Insights And Recommendations During The Covid-19 Crisis From The Global Luxury Expert Network ’ (23 March 2020) and ‘ Preparing To Reignite Your Luxury Business Post Pandemic’ (1 April 2020). An abstract of the White Papers reads: Build brand equity through generosity and kind deeds "Many mass marketing experts are advising brands to continue their advertising and public relations campaigns throughout the pandemic crisis. Some of that advice is triggered by the fact that the advertising and public relations industries are

East and West Dialogue: One World One Dream, ‘How to Develop the Sustainability of National Craftsmanship’

East and West Dialogue: One World One Dream,  ‘How to Develop the Sustainability of National Craftsmanship’ The London Design Academy 9.30am, Saturday 29 August 2020  The exciting international educational initiative – The London Design Academy (LDA) –  continues the global educational debate this weekend with the second in a series of online global forums, East and West Dialogue: One World One Dream,  ‘How to Develop the Sustainability of National Craftsmanship'  live online on Saturday 29 August 2020 9.30am     With the world facing unprecedented economic and social challenges in the aftermath of COVID 19, these forums are themed to the

EU Parliament Approves Supply Chain Law

The European Parliament vote on April 24, 2024, to approve the proposed European law to require large companies to prevent and remedy human rights and environmental abuses in their global supply chains is a step forward for corporate accountability, Human Rights Watch said today.  The proposed EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) seeks to introduce legal obligations for large corporations to conduct human rights and environmental due diligence in their global supply chains. The Parliament’s vote in Strasbourg was on the 11th anniversary of the tragic collapse on April 24, 2013, of the  Rana Plaza  building in  Bangladesh ,

Virtual Window Shopping: Jewellery 2020

Global fashion search platform Lyst released today its latest trend report, Virtual Window Shopping: Jewellery 2020. To compile the results, Lyst analysed the online shopping behaviour of more than nine million shoppers a month searching, across 12,000 brands and retailers. While tracking various spikes in searches, current trends and the impact of a global lockdown in the jewellery market, this report highlights the fastest rising categories and micro trends we have seen online over the past 12 months. The jewellery report reveals that: This year, 68% of jewellery shoppers searched for gold pieces. Worn by influencers including Hailey Bieber and Bella

Royal College of Art Show 2020

Royal College of Art | RCA2020 Meet the next generation of artists and designers 850 students around the world 300+ global events Led by the RCA student community, with over 300 global events involving renowned artists and special collections of student work chosen by RCA alumni and guests including Es Devlin, Andreas Gursky, Edward Enninful, Magdalene Odundo, Anya Hindmarch and Gus Casely-Hayford. The digital discovery platform will feature an international student cohort of around 850 emerging artists, designers, architects and creatives from their spaces around the world. Led by the RCA students from our four schools, Architecture, Arts & Humanities,

Classic Blue 19-4052: Pantone Colour of the Year 2020

For over 20 years, Pantone's Colour of the Year has influenced the design and buying decisions acorss several indsutries, including industrial design, interior furnishings, fashion and graphic design to name a few.  Pantone colour experts comb the world looking for new influences, including fashion and travel destinations, new technologies, textures, socio-economic conditions and social media trends that are capturing the world's attention. From these seasonal trend forecasts, Pantone forecast global colour movements to help advise companies on the modern best practise of brand visual identity. This annual colour psychology and colour consulting gives global brands the power to expedite their

Pantone Colour Of The Year 2022

Pantone the universal mark of international colour language, has announced the colour of the year for 2022, 'Very Peri'. PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri A new pantone colour whose courageous presence encourages personal inventiveness and creativity. “The Pantone Color of the Year reflects what is taking place in our global culture, expressing what people are looking for that colour can hope to answer.” added Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute. “Creating a new colour for the first time in the history of our Pantone Color of the Year educational colour program reflects the global innovation and

Christie’s Magnificent Jewels auction achieved a total of CHF53,661,500

Christie’s   Magnificent Jewels  auction achieved a total of CHF53,661,500, with 11 lots selling above a million and 93% of lots sold. The auction saw global participation from 32 countries, across 4 continents. Christie’s  Magnificent Jewels  auction achieved a total of CHF53,661,500, with 11 lots selling above a million and 93% of lots sold. The auction saw global participation from 32 countries, across 4 continents. The historic diamonds owned by Marie-Antoinette, the last Queen of France, which passed through the family by descent for the next 250 years led the auction. The jewels, made by Boehmer in 1776, attracted bidding from

Karen Millen launches Jewellery collection through partnership with Geko

Global womenswear brand Karen Millen has announced a new jewellery collection created in partnership with multi-brand jewellery supplier Gecko in a multi-year licensing deal brokered by IMG.  Beth Butterwick, the CEO of Karen Millen is “delighted to be working with Gecko” on the jewellery collection and has a “passion for delivering timeless quality and beauty” through their product. Andrew Morton, MD at Gecko explains that both sides of the partnership are excited to be working with each other, and want to emphasise on the global reach of the brand, though the brand itself is a leading UK brand. This launch

VICENZAORO 2017

VICENZAORO, the largest Show in Europe for Gold and Jewellery, is an authentic Business Hub for the industry, able to bring together the most authoritative players in the gold and jewellery world. A primary access route to the European markets, the Russian-speaking countries and the Middle East, it is not only the perfect place in which to develop business and consolidate relations, it is also a privileged observatory for understanding the latest trends in terms of style and design on the gold and jewellery market. For centuries, the city of Vicenza and its surroundings have been synonymous with excellence in

Holts Academy of Jewellery Under New Management

Holts Academy of Jewellery has announced that it is now under new leadership, and has been undergoing strategic change over the last year. The change in ownership for the educational establishment means a new era and with this a new name. Holts Academy of Jewellry announced with this that ss of the 25 January it will be known as will be known as the British Academy of Jewellery (BAJ). The BAJ have further announced the intention to retain its traditional values and dedication to teaching excellence, which it developed as it evolved as an education provider. A spokesman for the

Narratives In Making, National Craft Gallery - Kilkenny

Narratives In Making An exhibition of new and innovative works from the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland’s PORTFOLIO: Critical Selection 2017-18. The 28 designer makers represented were selected by an international panel, for demonstrating excellence in craftsmanship, design quality and technical skill. Narratives in Making, curated by Gregory Parsons, considers the provenance of the objects, who made it, where it was made, how it was made and what it is made of. All this is inextricably linked. It informs our relationship with the object. There are fascinating stories here, from the love of material, rituals of making, the design

Staffordshire University

We are the Connected  University . We're connected to the needs of our students, to business and to society. Our city campus in Stoke-on-Trent is the  University's  nerve centre. We deliver world class healthcare education at our specialist Centres of Excellence in  Stafford  and Shrewsbury.  Undergraduate 3D Design: Contemporary Jewellery and Fashion Accessories - BA (Hons) www.staffs.ac.uk

British Hallmarking Council’s Touchstone and HALO Awards championing Hallmarking Enforcement and Education

The HALO (Hallmarking Awareness and Learning Online) Award 2024 was launched by the  British Hallmarking Council  in early June. This is the third year of the award which has gathered considerable momentum with many entrants demonstrating extremely creative and novel ways to interest customers in hallmarks. Online Jewellers are encouraged to describe items accurately and remind customers of the importance reassurance provided by hallmarks when buying online, particularly from unknown sources. The HALO Award therefore promotes Educating consumers   about Hallmarks. Meanwhile the Touchstone Award, also sponsored by the British Hallmarking Council, encourages Trading Standards Authorities to identify and take action

The Art of Movement, Van Cleef & Arpels

The Art of Movement, Van Cleef & Arpels Design Museum, London 23 September – 20 October 2022 Featuring almost a hundred creations from Van Cleef & Arpels' patrimonial collection, numerous archive documents and lender masterpieces, this exhibition illustrates the French High Jewellery Maison's constant quest to impart movement into precious materials. Van Cleef & Arpels has constantly blended the excellence of its High Jewellery savoir-faire with great delicacy of vision in order to imbue the most precious materials with lightness and dynamism. Notable for their unique designs, their three-dimensional volume and their composition, the creations showcased stand out as manifestos

Desire Jewellery & Silversmithing Fair 2025

Call for Applications: Desire Jewellery & Silversmithing Fair 11 - 13 July 2025 Waterperry Gardens, near Oxford Apply To Exhibit Alongside the UK’s Best Contemporary Designer Jewellers and Silversmiths Craft In Focus is inviting applications for their 2025 Desire Jewellery & Silversmithing Fair taking place at Waterperry Gardens in July.  Craft In Focus has been organising contemporary craft and design events since 2000 and is proud of the reputation gained for excellence of presentation to the public.  A strict selection process ensures only the very best professional craftmakers and artists are chosen.  All work displayed must be made by the exhibitor. 

VICENZAORO 2020

VICENZAORO 2020 17 - 22 January 2020 Vicenza, Italia For centuries, the city of Vicenza and its surroundings have been synonymous with excellence in gold and jewellery. Vicenza today is an unrivalled international hub for the sector, hosting events and offering a multitude of services that cater for every aspect of the jewellery business.  Underpinned by technical expertise and a sense of artistry that spans generations of passionate artisans. This year the Show will, in fact, be held two weeks earlier, from 7 to 11 September, to avoid overlapping with international fashion dates, thus making it easier for operators from

OROAREZZO 2025

OROAREZZO 2024 10 - 13 May 2025 Arezzo Fiere e Congressi,  Via Spallanzani, 23,  52100 Arezzo, Italy OROAREZZO is the reference event that integrates all Made in Italy industrial production into a system of excellence, serving the goldsmithing sector. From gold and silver manufacturing to jewelry production and innovative machinery: a complete offering that reflects all Italian know-how, creativity and innovation. OROAREZZO is the event where ideas are given shape, thanks to a network of suppliers who can satisfy the needs of developing unique creations and private labels. OROAREZZO is also a platform of interest for the fashion sector. The new Arezzo

Introducing Trade Secrets Labs at FORGE: Stone Setting

Introducing Trade Secrets Labs at FORGE: Stone Setting Join us on a journey of technical excellence with our  Trade Secrets Labs , where industry experts impart specialist skills mastered over decades. These Trade Secrets Labs are designed for you to build your own learning experience, for you to pick and choose, creating a bespoke course tailored to your interests and experience. We’re kicking off with a series of stone setting workshops, led by the master setter Brian Fagen, boasting an impressive 50 years of experience in the jewellery trade. In these intensive workshops, participants will uncover the closely guarded secrets

Professor Paul O’Prey CBE Appointed Chair Of Trustees For The Edward James Foundation

Professor Paul O’Prey CBE has been appointed Chair of the Board of Trustees for The Edward James Foundation which is responsible for West Dean College of Arts and Conservation.  The College is charting an ambitious trajectory of growth and is recognised for excellence in arts and conservation education.  At the end of December 2019 Professor O’Prey will replace the Hon Peter Benson LVO MA FCA who is stepping down after seventeen years as a Trustee, ten of them as Chairman.  For the last fifteen years Professor O’Prey has been Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Roehampton, London, stepping down

Goldsmith / Designer, The Jewellery Workshop - Diss, Norfolk

Goldsmith / Designer The Jewellery Workshop Diss, Norfolk About Us The Jewellery Workshop, based in Diss Norfolk, offers a range of services, including bespoke jewellery design and creation, collections, restoration and repair work.  We pride ourselves on our exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and outstanding customer service. Our vision is to build upon our reputation of excellence. Job Description We are seeking to appoint a new member to the team - an experienced Designer Goldsmith. The successful candidate will cover the following essential elements within their role:  Key Responsibilities Jewellery Designer & Maker Design and create bespoke jewellery, collaborating closely

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair - Online

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair - Online GNCCF ONLINE 25 - 31 July 2020 An opportunity to buy outstanding contemporary craft & design  online  from 160 designer-makers and artists selected for their excellence; from jewellery and fashion accessories to functional and statement pieces for the home. GNCCF ONLINE will go live from 10am, Saturday 25th July until Friday 31st July. See us on Facebook and Instagram and buy work via the GNCCF website. Put the dates in your diary and join the conversation. In the meantime, take a sneak preview at this year’s makers below and follow us at #GNCCF

Designer Open House

Designer Open House FORGE represents independent designers whose work is unique, made in the UK and demonstrates excellence in skills and craftsmanship. We invite designers to showcase with us who share the same values. If you would like to showcase with us then visit us on Wednesday 17 May, 3pm-6pm to view our current showcase and to ask any questions. The FORGE Showcases is centred around a different theme each month and we are currently looking for designers for June. JUNE 1ST - 30TH: RECYCLED TREASURES Celebrating the beauty and creativity that arise from sustainable practices and highlighting the importance

Senior Goldsmith, Queensmith - Hatton Garden, London

The role Senior Goldsmith  Queensmith Hatton Garden, London Culture & Values At Queensmith, we transcend the traditional jewellery-buying experience. Our mission is to revolutionise the world of engagement and wedding jewellery, crafting unforgettable moments for our customers. Our culture revolves around "Be Brilliant," reflecting our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation; "Be Clear," representing transparent communication, ethical practices, and a meaningful impact; and "Be Unique," celebrating individuality, creativity, and inclusivity. Just as we aim to democratise diamond jewellery through bespoke services and craftsmanship, we provide our teams with a similarly customised and exceptional work environment. The essence of Queensmith lies

Diamond Setter, Queensmith - Hatton Garden, London

The role Diamond Setter Queensmith Hatton Garden, London Culture & Values At Queensmith, we transcend the traditional jewellery-buying experience. Our mission is to revolutionise the world of engagement and wedding jewellery, crafting unforgettable moments for our customers. Our culture revolves around "Be Brilliant," reflecting our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation; "Be Clear," representing transparent communication, ethical practices, and a meaningful impact; and "Be Unique," celebrating individuality, creativity, and inclusivity. Just as we aim to democratise diamond jewellery through bespoke services and craftsmanship, we provide our teams with a similarly customised and exceptional work environment. The essence of Queensmith lies

Sales Advisor, Queensmith - Hatton Garden, London

The role Sales Advisor Queensmith Hatton Garden, London Culture & Values At Queensmith, we transcend the traditional jewellery-buying experience. Our mission is to revolutionise the world of engagement and wedding jewellery, crafting unforgettable moments for our customers. Our culture revolves around "Be Brilliant," reflecting our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation; "Be Clear," representing transparent communication, ethical practices, and a meaningful impact; and "Be Unique," celebrating individuality, creativity, and inclusivity. Just as we aim to democratise diamond jewellery through bespoke services and craftsmanship, we provide our teams with a similarly customised and exceptional work environment. The essence of Queensmith lies

Two Largest Coins Ever Made in the UK Face The Trial of the Pyx

Steeped in ancient tradition, the Trial of the Pyx plays an essential role in supporting The Royal Mint’s reputation for excellence in production. 2020 sees a Royal Mint first as the largest coins ever made in the UK will be tested at the Trial - the five kilo and two kilo ‘Una and The Lion’ coins. The Trial of the Pyx, one of Britain's oldest judicial processes. Held at Goldsmiths’ Hall, London, since 1871, The Goldsmiths’ Company is responsible for testing these coins and ensuring they are of the correct quality and composition.  During the ceremony, jury members are required to [youtube

Cockpit Summer Open Studios - Deptford

Cockpit Summer Open Studios 2024 - Deptford Deptford 14 - 16 June 2024 Cockpit summer open studios returns this June with over 20 new makers and a new late opening in Deptford Summer Open Studios is back at Cockpit for two weekends this June, offering the public a unique opportunity to go behind-the-scenes of a working makers’ studio and buy direct from over 175 renowned craftspeople. Bloomsbury: 14-16 June (VIP Preview on 13 June) Deptford: 21-23 June (VIP Preview on 21 June) Cockpit is the UK’s centre for excellence in craft, with two locations in Bloomsbury and Deptford, and one

Cockpit Summer Open Studios - Bloomsbury

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Popular Demand Extends Silversmith Exhibition

The blockbuster summer exhibition at the Goldsmiths’ Company - Grant Macdonald: International Silversmith has had an extension to its opening hours due to popular demand and visitor footfall. The exhibition documents five decades of Grant Macdonald design and excellence of craftmanship displaying the unique creativity, execution and entrepreneurism of the London based silversmithing house. Featuring an unrivalled quality of gold and silver items in contemporary designs and showcasing master craftsmanship to the highest order, the exhibition will now be open from Monday to Saturday from 5 July to the end of the exhibition run 26 July. This major exhibition documents

VICENZAORO 2019

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Alexander Wood's jewellery skills earn top ten in the world place

Young British jewellery maker Alexander Wood left Abu Dhabi with a champions medal after earning a coveted top 10 place at the 44th WorldSkills Competition recently. Alexander, a member of the Goldsmiths’ Company Apprenticeship Scheme and currently earning his spurs with Ian Read Diamond Setters in Kent,  received a Medallion of Excellence for reaching the international standard in the Jewellery skills category.  His achievement was the result of three years worth of training,  honing his silversmithing, polishing, micro-setting and enamelling skills though he started his selection process for WorldSkills back in September 2015 when he became one of eight trainee

Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Awards 2019

The presentation of the annual Awards of the Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Awards took place at the prestigious Goldsmiths’ Hall in London on Monday 25 th  February 2019.  This important annual Awards Ceremony – known as the Jewellery Oscars – was hosted by Theo Fennell and welcomed over 300 guests, including world-renowned jewellery houses, notable sponsors, industry associations, leading designers and the UK jewellery press. This unique annual competition rewards excellence in technical skills and creative design in precious metals and related materials. The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council (GC&DC) which operates the competition, actively encourages established craftspersons and designers

VICENZAORO 2018

For centuries, the city of Vicenza and its surroundings have been synonymous with excellence in gold and jewellery. Vicenza today is an unrivalled international hub for the sector, hosting events and offering a multitude of services that cater for every aspect of the jewellery business.  Underpinned by technical expertise and a sense of artistry that spans generations of passionate artisans. As a worldwide planner and event organizer, Fiera di Vicenza continues to help jewellery operators prosper from the shifting gravity of international markets.  New alliances have been made with leading jewellery trade partners in Asia, the Middle East and the

Appointment: Monika Kamycka Appointed Vice-Chair of The British Society of Enamellers

The British Society of Enamellers (BSOE) has appointed a new Vice-Chair, Silversmith and Enameller Monika Kamycka, owner of contemporary fine jewellery brand, Mona Pink. The BSOE will be announcing further changes to its Board over the coming months, with Monika joining the senior leadership team, focused on the continued promotion of British Enamelling excellence across the UK and beyond. Commenting on her appointment, Monika said: “I’m pleased and proud to have been appointed as Vice-Chair, just a couple of months after having joined the Board as a committee member at the March AGM. I was very motivated to join the

‘In Conversation’ Event with Joanna Hardy and Cartier

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Chopard, the Artisan of emotion, has a long-standing relationship with the emblem of the heart- using it as a motif year-round. But, how can one take ownership of such a universal symbol? That is precisely the question that the Chopard workshops has been addressing for many years, honing each of the details that contribute to making this heart a peak architectural achievement. The excellence and fullness of its pleasing proportions encapsulate the very idea of beauty. Its infinitely soft, ergonomic and gently rounded curves were achieved by developing countless prototypes aimed at achieving the golden ratio, the magic formula that

Scotland's Paul Adie 'proud' to be 2018 Loewe Craft Prize finallist

Scottish jeweller Paul Adie will find out next week if he has won the prestigious 2018 LOEWE Craft Prize after he became one of just 30 finallists shortlisted for the second iteration of the awards, created to recognise the merits of artisanal excellence. Glasgow born and Munich based, Adie, 34, crafts rings, pendants and brooches from steel and solder, his most recent collection called The Earth is Moving' launched in 2016, following the success of 'Fruits from the Wasteland' the previous year. His latest collection 'Searching for Solid Ground' was submitted for the LOEWE Craft Prize as one of 1865

'Jewellery Oscars' Announced: Goldsmiths’ Crafts & Design Awards 2017

The presentation of the annual awards of the Goldsmiths Craft & Design took place at Goldsmiths Hall in London on 27 February 2017.    This important annual Awards Ceremony - known in the trade as the Jewellery Oscars - was hosted by international jewellery expert, Joanna Hardy, and welcomed over 300 guests, including world renowned jewellery houses, notable sponsors, industry associations, leading designers and the UK jewellery press. This unique annual competition rewards excellence in technical skills and creative design in precious metals and related materials. The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council, which operates the competition, actively encourages craftsmen and

Festival of Living Crafts 2017

Hundreds of designer-makers will be showcasing British crafts in action at Hatfield House in Hertfordshire from the 4th to 7th May. This four day craft extravaganza is dedicated to promoting cutting edge creativity and excellence in craftsmanship. Pavilions are packed with established makers, carefully vetted for their individuality and innovation with a festival atmosphere combining craft demonstrations, workshops and entertainment. Visitors will be immersed for the day in British contemporary craft of exceptional quality, meet the friendly exhibitors who are passionate about their creative talents and enjoy watching craft masterclasses. This is the perfect opportunity to buy handmade gifts with

Ruth Hollywood launches new lines at London Design Festival

Ruth Hollywood makes jewellery inspired by natural geometry. Synthesising 100% recycled silver and colourful hand-mixed resin, her work moves over the boundaries between science, nature and art. Ruth has received awards for Excellence in Design from The Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths, and was selected for the Crafts Council UK Hothouse programme in 2015. Her jewellery is stocked in a variety of shops and galleries across the world. She exhibits at trade shows regularly, and her work has been shown in London, Munich, Montreal and Sydney. The perfect microscopic patterns of atoms and crystals have found their way into Ruth’s newest

Trash & Treasures, Gallery Weekend Berlin 2017

There are a lot of exciting exhibitions in Berlin around the Gallery Weekend and we will also join the joyful hustle and bustle. The spirit of subversion is a never ending commodity of Berlin’s art world. With this in mind, the exhibition “Trash & Treasures” shows two worlds colliding: The “high” and the “low” of artistic jewellery creation, which par excellence represents power, wealth and status. Why hurry over beautiful things? Why not linger and enjoy them? Clara Schumann Trash & Treasures Date 27th of April 2017 Time 6pm Venue Clemens Ritter von Wagner, Wagner Preziosen, Mommsenstraße 4, 10629 Berlin

Loewe announces winner of Craft Prize

Launched by the Loewe Foundation in 2016    to celebrate excellence in modern craftsmanship, the   Loewe    Craft Prize has announced its winning entries  of 2017. Ernst  Gamperl  of Germany was awarded the prize for his work  ‘Tree of Life 2’,  selected from among   26 finalists . His creation was chosen by a distinguished jury of leading figures in design, architecture, journalism and museum curatorship.     Ernst  Gamperl  received a silver trophy from iconic actress Charlotte  Rampling , along with a cash prize of 50,000 euros. Loewe Creative Director Jonathan Anderson said, “The work of Ernst  Gamperl  has

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The BFC Education Foundation congratulates their 2017 BA scholars who are graduating this summer: Ian Richardson, Jacob Weir, Harriet Crowther, Kitty Garratt, Lloyd James Husband, Matthew Needham and Polly Thomas as well as MA recipient Gabriella Sardena. Sarah Mower MBE, Co-President of the BFC’s Education pillar commented, "The BFC Education Foundation scholars, for BA and MA are selected based on their outstanding talent, from Universities across the country. Their work this year is the inspiring proof of the creativity, individuality and technical skills which put British fashion educators at the top of every international measure of excellence. In times when art education is under attack and

Alexander Wood to Represent UK at WorldSkills Abu Dhabi

The Goldsmiths’ Company has announced that Alexander Wood has been chosen to represent the UK in the Jewellery Competition at the WorldSkills Finals in Abu Dhabi.  The 44th edition of the world’s leading vocational education and skills excellence competition, which will be held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from 14-19 October 2017, will bring together 1000 apprentices and students from 70 countries, all vying for the top spot in a particular vocational field.    The two-year process has seen competitors win regional heats, a national final, European finals and more recently jump the final hurdle reaching the most

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Harriet Kelsall wins Cambridge's ‘Independent Retailer of the Year' Gong

Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery has won the ‘Independent Retailer of the Year’ gong at the Cambridge News Business Excellence Awards 2017. Leading businesses from across the city recently gathered for a gala dinner in the Great Hall, Kings College where Justin Webb of BBC Radio Four announced the winners.  Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery opened the doors of its Green Street Studio and Shop in May 2005, and since then it has grown from strength to strength, winning a multitude of national awards. The business was praised by a panel of judges for pioneering bespoke jewellery on the UK high street.

The Scotland Craft & Design Pavilion, Craft Scotland as part of London Design Fair

First ever Scottish pavilion at London Design Fair. More than 20 cutting edge craft makers have been selected for a showcase of Scottish excellence at the London Design Fair. It will be the first time Scotland has had its own pavilion at the prestigious four-day event and aims to raise the international profile of its talent in everything from ceramics, lighting and jewellery to glass, furniture and textiles. The Scotland: Craft & Design pavilion is an initiative between Craft Scotland (the national agency for craft) and Emergents, a community interest company supporting the development of creative careers, enterprise and the

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Established in 1965, the Foundation programme at  Carmarthen  has a national reputation for excellence. It offers learners the opportunity to explore a diverse range of  art  and design options to enable them, through experience, to make an informed choice about future education, training and employment progression.   HERITAGE Carmarthen School of Art has been providing Art education since 1854, being one of the first Art Schools set up in Britain following the Great Exhibition in Crystal Palace in London. The School has been continually evolving ever since, responding to social, creative and cultural developments and the changing needs of its

Truro and Penwith College

Rated Gold by the Teaching Excellence and Student Outcomes Framework (TEF) in 2017 and Ofsted Outstanding in 2016, Truro and Penwith College provides a range of quality degree courses with employer needs in mind. All students benefit from an excellent support network that helps to put them on the best footing for a successful future after graduating. Finding themselves at home in purpose-built buildings with expert lecturers and access to industry-standard equipment, students can study a quality University course right here in Cornwall.   Degree courses in Silversmithing and Jewellery help students to develop craftsmanship skills in areas such as

One Drop Plus One Drop Makes One Drop

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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

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

First ever online Goldsmiths' Fair opened by Prince Charles

[youtube url=http://youtu.be/GGvGiWC4RJE] Goldsmiths' Fair opened this year, for the first time in its 38 year history, as an online only event, due to to the global pandemic. In an act of support of the jewellery and silversmithign craft and industry Prince Charles made a personal address to open the event on 23rd September. The Goldsmiths' Company took the decision in Spring 2020 not to cancel their support for the industry to which they are wedded, but to pivot the event so that it continue to go ahead, providing an essential route to market for the small independent businesses [youtube

Appointment: Stephanie Phair Made New Chair of British Fashion Council

The British Fashion Council Board have announced that the new Chair of the organisation will be Stephanie Phair.  The role will be formalised at the 5th July 2018 Board meeting with key meetings commencing as early as June. The tenure is for an initial three years, with the option to renew. Stephanie is the Chief Strategy Officer for Farfetch, the global tech platform for the luxury fashion industry, a position she has held since November 2016 and will remain in. The role of Chair will focus on Governance, ensuring the organisation is able to lead the sector in a changing

Secret Images of Randox Health Grand National Trophy Revealed

For the first time in the Grand National’s history a new trophy will be designed every year during the sponsorship with the global diagnostics company Randox Health. The first of the five new trophies will be unveiled at the highly anticipated Weights Evening Reception on Tuesday 14th February. For first time in race’s history, the sponsor will create a unique trophy each year Miniature versions of the trophy will also be presented to the jockey, trainer and groom Over the next two weeks, a series of teaser images will be revealed, leading to up the grand unveil at the Weights

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

Huge Turnout for the 2024 Goldsmiths' Craft & Design Council Awards Ceremony

The Jacques Cartier Memorial Award and 50 other awards were presented at the 2024 Goldsmiths’ Craftsmanship & Design Awards including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 'Jewellery Oscars' held on Monday. Held at Goldsmiths’ Hall in London on Monday 4th March 2024, the annual Awards Ceremony, otehrwise known as the 'Jewellery Oscars' was opened by the Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council’s chair Anne-Marie Reeves, and hosted by Council Trustees Maeve Gillies and Judith Lockwood, who revealed this year’s award winners. The event welcomed 300 guests, including representatives from world renowned jewellery houses, notable sponsors, industry associations, leading designers, and the UK

NYC Jewelry Week 2024

NYCJW24 18 – 24 November 2024 Manhattan, Brooklyn, Harlem, and online Each November, NYC Jewelry Week proudly presents ‘The Week,’ a 7-day celebration dedicated to the art of jewelry. This annual event invites a global audience to explore the world of jewelry through a dynamic mix of in-person and virtual experiences, spanning New York City and beyond. Our hybrid program features virtual events  streamed on YouTube  alongside immersive on-site happenings. In-person, NYC Jewelry Week brings together leading figures in the jewelry industry to curate extraordinary experiences, including exhibitions, exclusive shopping opportunities, and retail collaborations. Attendees can also participate in insightful panel

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

How are you? A little note from us to you

Hello How  are  you? We’ve missed you. You may have been wondering where we have been. Like all of us, Benchpeg has had to acclimatise to a ‘new normal’ and this has taken some time. We’ve had to weather a few storms before but this global pandemic is something none of us have experienced in our lifetimes. For Benchpeg, this has meant a number of personal and professional issues including the hospitalisation of one of our children with a Covid-19 scare, who is thankfully fine now. Unfortunately, this meant putting Benchpeg on hold temporarily while we hunkered down and dealt

First Ever State of the Art Jewellery Summit Held in the Summer

The first ever collaboration between The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), The Mineralogical and Geological Museum at  Harvard University  (MGMH) and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) took  place this summer on 23 rd  June in-person at Harvard University. Three of the world's most respected thought leaders come together to explore challenges, opportunities, and the future of responsible practice at the  'State of the Art Jewelry Summit'. Climate change and its implications on the supply chain, the business of technology and the evolution of consumer expectations - the unique day of panel discussions and presentations by global experts, academics and artists shared

Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair 2025

Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair 19 - 22 June 2025 Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Asia’s leading mid-year jewellery event is refreshing its brand – Jewellery & Gem ASIA Hong Kong will be held from 19 - 22 June 2025 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 square

Hong Kong International Jewellery Show 2020

Hong Kong International Jewellery Show  Wan Chai, Hong Kong 4 - 8 March 2020 The HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show is the perfect stop for international and regional jewellery manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, distributors, buyers and designers to meet and tap into the global markets. This sparkling event features themed zones showcasing magnificent finished jewellery products. Major exhibit categories include antique jewellery, brand name watches & clocks, fine jewellery, finished jewellery, IT solutions for Jewellery, jade jewellery, jewellery accessories, jewellery display and packaging material, jewellery tools and equipment as well as silver jewellery. Dates 4 - 7 March 10am -

Cluster Crafts x London Craft Week 2024

Cluster Crafts x London Craft Week 2024 49-51 East Road London N1 6AH Thursday 16th - Sunday 19th May 12pm - 8pm Cluster Crafts 2024 promises an unforgettable journey of exploration, celebrating the beauty and stories of handmade objects. Free Entry! Join us at Cluster Crafts 2024 for an exploration of timeless artistry in material transformation. With the theme "Metamorphosis: A Journey of Material Transformation," artisans will redefine craftsmanship from ancient traditions to modern innovations. Experience the fusion of creativity and mastery as global artisans showcase their skills. Engage with them as they share insights into their craft, each creation

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

Irish goldsmith Nigel O’Reilly’s work go under the Sotheby’s hammer

For the first time in history an Irish high jewellery maker will showcase his works at auction in the US.  October 22nd sees the inclusion of Mayo based jewellery designer and goldsmith Nigel O’Reilly in Sotheby’s Important Jewels live auction in New York.  In the face of a global pandemic creating uncertainty with many small businesses who depend on international trade for expansion, the inclusion of two of Nigel O’Reilly’s pieces in the renowned auction house’s October sale marks a progressive step forward towards ‘the new normal’ for private business in Ireland.  Hailing from and working in Mayo, Nigel has

London Design Festival

London Design Festival 13 - 21 September 2025 London Wide London Design Festival celebrates and promotes our city as the design capital of the world. The 23rd edition will take place on 13–21 September 2025. London Design Festival celebrates and promotes the city as a design capital on the global stage. London Design Festival was launched by Sir John Sorrell CBE and Ben Evans CBE in 2003. Building on London’s existing design activity, their concept was to create an annual event that would promote the city’s creativity, drawing in the country’s greatest thinkers, practitioners, retailers and educators to a deliver

Responsible Jewellery Council Launches SDG Taskforce

Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), the leading standard-setting organisation for the jewellery and watch supply chain, announced today the launch of an SDG Taskforce to create a unified platform to benchmark members’ progress in the implementation of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  The UN SDGs are a call to action for all countries, organisations and people to come together in partnership to achieve a more sustainable and fairer future for all. The SDG Taskforce includes 26 leaders of the global jewellery industry together with the representatives of NGOs, other trade organisations and academia who will convene on a regular

Mark Buntz Joins GIA as SVP and Chief Marketing Officer

The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) has appointed Mark Buntz as senior vice president and chief marketing officer to lead all global marketing efforts and drive the future of the GIA brand. Buntz will support the expansion of GIA’s education, laboratory services – including the new GIA Diamond Origin Report – and instruments business into new markets and extend GIA’s 4Cs of Diamond Quality consumer outreach program. He succeeds Kathryn Kimmel, who retired in August after 30 years with GIA. “Mark brings invaluable expertise with leading companies which have reached pinnacles of success in their fields,” said Susan Jacques, GIA

Digital Jewelry Week

Digital Jewelry Week 7 - 12 October 2024 www.digitaljewelryweek.com Digital Jewelry Week makes history with first-ever hybrid event setting a new standard for the global jewelry industry The immersive event will blend digital innovation with an exclusive in-person gathering in Milan’s iconic garden senato. Digital Jewelry Week (DJW), returning for its second year taking place from the 7th to the 13th of October, has today announced that the  event will expand into both digital and physical spaces, marking the jewellery industry’s first-ever hybrid event. On the 12 of October, DJW will host an exclusive one-day gathering in Milan’s prestigious Garden Senato.

INHORGENTA MUNICH 2021 is cancelled

Due to the ongoing travel and contact restrictions designed to stop the spread of the global coronavirus pandemic, Messe München has decided to cancel INHORGENTA MUNICH 2021. The decision was taken in detailed consultation with the advisory board, as well as exhibitors, visitors and partners of Europe’s leading platform for jewelry, watches and gemstones. The focus is now on preparing for a successful INHORGENTA MUNICH 2022—scheduled to take place from February 11 to 14—and on further developing the digital INHORGENTA TRENDFACTORY. The next edition of this series will be held in the fall of this year. Last November, Messe München

Luxury Institute: How To Build An Elite Client Relationship Team Post Pandemic

Post pandemic, luxury brands cannot afford to have a transactionally-driven sales team. In this environment, high-performance client relationship building teams will thrive. While there will be fewer traditional stores, there will be a desire and need for emotionally intelligent trusted expert advisors. The 2020   State of the Luxury Industry   survey, which has been updating the luxury industry on rapidly emerging global trends for 17 years, indicates that affluent consumers in the top 10% of household incomes in Asia, Europe, and especially the USA, are becoming strongly averse to interacting with luxury sales associates. O nly China, at 51%, registered

Carmarthen School of Art Virtual Graduate Show 2020

Carmarthen School of Art Graduate Show Friday 26 June 2020 - all summer Carmarthen School of Art @ Coleg Sir Gar create the UK’s largest bespoke and hand built Virtual Reality (VR) gallery to showcase student art and design work Despite the unprecedented challenges of a global pandemic, staff at Carmarthen School of Art in Wales have created a virtual showcase to celebrate the achievements, creativity and innovation of final year students from all of their Art & Design courses. Students have had a real challenge on their hands to adapt to what has been an unexpected end to their courses

Orla Kiely: A Life in Pattern

Orla Kiely: A Life in Pattern 12 October 2019 - 5 January 2020 Discovery Centre, Winchester Orla Kiely is one of the UK and Ireland’s most successful fashion and lifestyle designers. Her stylised plant based patterns are innovative, influential and instantly recognisable. With enchanting applications, he r flat, graphic style and choice of colour palette resonate with a nostalgia for vintage style and interiors.  Inspired by the upbeat exuberance of the 1960s, a love of Irish and Scandinavian architecture and mid-century design, Kiely’s designs have grown from humble beginnings in the 1990s to become a global phenomenon. Date 12 October

Pure London x JATC 2024

Pure London x JATC   11 - 13 February 2024 Kensington Olympia We bring together the brightest minds in the industry twice a year to showcase the best must-have collections, discover the latest trends, get exclusive business insight, and make all-important international connections. Pure London x JATC provides a global platform for brands and designers to meet with buyers that matter the most to their business and connect. Join the next edition as we arrive back at the iconic Kensington Olympia in London, 11-13 February 2024. www.purelondon.com

TCT 3Sixty 2021

TCT 3Sixty 2021 29 June - 1 July 2021 NEC, Birmingham Rapid News Group has announced the decision to postpone TCT 3Sixty, the UK’s flagship event for 3D Printing & Additive Intelligence, to 2021. Originally scheduled for 29 September – 01 October 2020, the event will now take place from 29 June – 01 July 2021. The venue for the event, the NEC, Birmingham, UK is unchanged. The decision to postpone the event comes as a result of the unprecedented times the event industry finds itself in as a result of the global Coronavirus pandemic. The rescheduling of the show reflects

Dimexon Transitions To Solar Power At Coimbatore Factory

Diamond manufacturer Dimexon has transitioned to solar power at its manufacturing site in Coimbatore, southern India, reducing its reliance on the national grid by 75%. This will equate to an annual saving of ~1,400 tCO2e, which is equivalent of taking 333 cars off the road for a year. The solar power project is part of Dimexon’s wider ESG commitments, which include its pledge to be carbon neutral by 2030. The Coimbatore site is responsible for 85% of the global company’s total carbon emissions. To further reduce its emissions at Coimbatore, Dimexon swapped out diesel vehicles for electric vehicles in 2023.

Trainee / Junior Silversmith, Grant Macdonald - London

The role Trainee / Junior Silversmith Grant Macdonald London SE1 Grant Macdonald is a high-end silversmithing manufacturer. We are market leaders in our specialised field and our global customer base ensures we produce a wide range of fascinating products.  An opportunity has arisen to join our expanding silversmithing team in our central London workshop. We are currently looking for a talented junior silversmith/trainee to join the team. The chosen candidate needs to be a hardworking, enthusiastic craftsperson who is looking to expand their skills and grow as a silversmith at a prestigious London workshop. About the job 5 days a week Traditional

Insta hashtags prompt sales in lockdown

The artist Matthew Burrows set up an artist-led movement and network on 16th March 2020 to support artists struggling financially during Covid-19 using the social media platform Instagram – with a simple pledge. The pledge #artistsupportpledge created a much needed route to market in lockdown for artists and makers. He released a statement saying that within a month “…from making the first sales pledge I am a little awe struck yet completely delighted by the momentum and viral take up of this campaign. It is not just an important network and survival mechanism for artists: It has become a global Hear

JOYA Barcelona Art Jewellery & Objects 2020

JOYA Barcelona Art Jewellery & Objects 2020 19 September to 29 November 2020 Since its first edition, JOYA Barcelona main goal has been to promote art jewellery, and now more than ever, it reaffirms its commitment to promote the artists despite the current situation. The 12th edition of JOYA will focus on the incorporation of new technologies in traditional crafts, however, the current global pandemic situation has made us rethink our goals and commitment to our artistic community. This commitment had led us to reinvent ourselves in order to continue being an exhibition space and meeting point for the artists

White Label Jewellery to feature big in new Sourcing Section at Jewellery & Watch

Visitors to Jewellery & Watch 2020 will have access to a new Spring Fair Hall dedicated to global manufacturers offering white label jewellery, giftware and accessories. The new Sourcing Sector in Hall 18 of NEC, Birmingham - the only one of its kind in the UK market and the first of the season in Europe – is designed to remove the hassle of overseas buying trips from the schedules of busy retailers and buying teams. First introduced at Autumn Fair 2019, Sourcing will present trend-driven private label products across a range of categories, including jewellery, accessories, homeware, giftware and fashion.

London Craft Week 2020

London Craft Week 2020 30 September - 9 October 2020 London Craft Week celebrates outstanding British and international creativity. This year the festival brings together over 250 established and emerging makers, designers, brands and galleries from around the world. Authenticity is at the heart of London Craft Week and the programme aims to attract a broad audience united in their appreciation of imagination, individuality, passion and skill. A curated programme of events across London allows visitors to create their own itinerary, meet the makers and gain access to exclusive exhibitions, demonstrations and workshops. London Craft Week reflects a global trend,

London Fashion Week September 2017

LONDON FASHION WEEK 15th - 19th September 2017 Located at The Store Studios, 180 Strand, the Designer Showrooms is home to over 150 British and international designers. Presented within is a rich and diverse selection of products in a highly curated showroom. Showcasing at London Fashion Week raises the profile of brands as part of London Fashion Week’s edit of what to see.  The international element of the showrooms illustrates that the doors to London are truly open, with designers showcasing from Dubai, Finland and South Korea. The pull of London on a global scale is undeniable. The UK continues

GIA Gemological Symposium

GIA (Gemological Institute of America) will convene its sixth International Gemological Symposium in Carlsbad, California to feature science and business tracks; participation by Harvard Business School Focused on the theme “New Challenges. Creating Opportunities” the three-day event will offer insight into the latest gemological research including recent findings by GIA and other leading researchers. Professors from the Harvard Business School (HBS) will lead a track on business concepts and innovations, using the renowned case-study method employed in all HBS programs, including the annual GIA Global Leadership Program. The Symposium will also celebrate the centennial of Richard T. Liddicoat, the beloved

The Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office Celebrate Ten Years at Heathrow

This month the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office celebrates the tenth anniversary of its Heathrow Sub-Office within the secure premises of Brink’s Global Services, at Heathrow Airport.  Like all good birthday parties, the celebrations kicked off with a cake!  Between bites Kevin Bowles, Heathrow Sub-Office Manager, said, “Setting up the facility in partnership with Brink’s secure logistics services has proven to give unrivalled efficiency and security for a decade. I’m really proud of that, and my team here.” In the secure premises the team of 11 cover the entire assay and hallmarking process.  Opened in January 2008, the office was set up as

From 'Born this Way' to 'Born to Dare' Lady Gaga is the Face of New Campaign for Tudor Watches

Lady Gaga is a global, leading fashion icon, mindful of everything she wears. She has turned celebrity into a comprehensive art form. She knows full well that an outfit is a powerful message, an art performance. Every accessory is a way to shape her image, a means to an end. That's why when she chooses to represent a brand, we sit up and take notice.  Created by the founder of Rolex, Hans Wilsdorf, the Tudor Watch Company was born with a mission to explore new territories, offering “a watch that (his) agents could sell at a more modest price than (his) [youtube

K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery presents Ute Decker

K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery presents Ute Decker As an ongoing series of talks and seminars by makers, artists and jewellerswe are very happy to be presenting Ute Decker as our inaugural speaker and would like to invite you to this talk. Ute Decker is a pioneer of the global ethical jewellery movement and one of the first worldwide to work in Fairtrade Gold. She is best known for her minimalist, architectural jewellery art. Her innovative method of sculpting, bending, and twisting gold and silver into expressive three-dimensional “geometric poetry” make her pieces unique. In this talk she will share

London Fashion Week 2018 - September

London Fashion Week September 2018 – A Celebration Of Culture, Fashion & Art For Everyone London Fashion Week has established itself as one of the most creative and innovative fashion showcases in the world, with its home, London, being one of the most multicultural, vibrant and diverse cities on the planet.   London Fashion Week Festival brings a city-wide celebration throughout the month of September 2018 merging creative institutions, designer businesses and global brands, offering consumer activation in London as a backdrop to London Fashion Week. London Fashion Week Festival opens up the city and celebrates the intersection of the creative industries, from music, art, tech and

International Jewellery London: Inspire Seminar Programme

International Jewellery London: Inspire Seminar Programme 1 - 3 September 2019 Olympia, Kensington  From catwalk theatre to retail theatre, and everything there is to know about fine jewellery, International Jewellery London (IJL), the global meeting place for the jewellery industry, has today announced the full IJL Inspire seminar programme. Leaders from the international jewellery trade will take to the stage to discuss key trends that are shaping the international jewellery and watch industry today, while offering invaluable networking opportunities to jewellery retailers and suppliers from around the world. The IJL Inspire highlights include: SS20 Trends with The Futurist Paola de

Appointment: Anchorcert Appoints Steve Hamon as New Sales Director

AnchorCert Group, including Assay Office Birmingham, is pleased to confirm that it has appointed new Sales Director, Steve Hamon. Steve has more than 17 years’ experience as a senior sales and business development professional, including more than 4 years’ leading the UK and Eire Product Division for global testing laboratory Intertek and more than 5 years’ managing the BSI (British Standards Institution) Engineering, Testing and Kitemark divisions. Steve was officially appointed in December 2017 and has been working closely with the senior management and executive team to understand the complexities of the jewellery industry, as well as familiarise himself with

Precious Mysteries film to set 'enigmatic' tone for Goldsmith's Fair

Precious Mysteries, a unique new film installation created by celebrated fashion filmmaker Ujin Lin will set an 'enigmatic, highly-polished, and breathtakingly beautiful' tone for the 2017 Goldsmith Fair starting in September. Lin, the guest curator at this years Fair at Goldsmith's Hall was commissioned to create the film which will feature jewellery and silver he selected from this year’s Fair exhibitors having previously created campaigns for global luxury brands such as Prada, Philip Lim and Longchamp, among others. His films are highly acclaimed across the fashion world. Seductive silver Lin's finely crafted cinematic narrative provides the perfect modern complement to

Cutting Edge - Contemporary Glass Jewellery Exhibition

Cutting Edge - Contemporary Glass Jewellery Exhibition A special edition for New York City Jewellery Week 12 th  – 17th November 2018 Adornment has the pleasure to present, on the occasion of the  New York City Jewellery Week , a special edition of  Cutting Edge , an exhibition of jewellery design and research into glass, first announced in Venice within the Venice Glass Week. The exhibition will be held in the revolutionary spaces of R & Company on 64 White Street, a showcase for global modernism spanning two centuries and focused on the future of design, from 12th – 17th

Triennale européenne du Bijou contemporain 2017

European Triennial of Contemporary Jewelery  At the Great Hall of the Former Abattoirs of Mons / Triennial Every year, the WCC-BF organizes alternately the European Triennial of Ceramics and Glass, the European Triennial of Contemporary Jewelery and the European Prize for Applied Arts. These exhibitions have an international reputation, they involve many partnerships. For this edition f the European Triennial of Contemporary Jewelery, Sweden and France are investing with Belgium the Grande-Halle des Anciens Abattoirs with their many contemporary variations of jewelery. The current hybridization of disciplines, characteristic of global contemporary creation, no longer spares jewelery. In recent years, the fundamental

Pantone Announce Colour of the Year – for 2018

Pantone, the world renowned authority on colour, has announced its colour of the year for 2018 - Ultra Violet. The Pantone Colour Institute, which forecasts global colour trends, describes the colour as: “A dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade, PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.” How this effects jewellery The announcement of the Colour of the Year is significant to the jewellery industry because the fashion industry and media in particular will be picking up on accessories and fashion elements which can incorporate the hottest trend for 2018. This provides

Branded Jewellery Sales to Soar by 2020

A recently published report by consultant firm Mckinsey has forecast annual global sales growth in branded jewellery of between 5% to 6% each year by 2020 to take sales from approximately £132 billion to £223 billion globally. The report states that consumer appetite for jewellery now appears more voracious than ever. which led British marketplace, OnBuy.com to analyse the report further; to draw out the information industry insiders need to know and to share advice among Artisan designers who may need to keep pace. The report entitled A Multifaceted Future: The Jewellery Industry in 2020 states its findings that branded items already account

London Edge 2019

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

Fringe with Benefits

As the sun slowly begins to grace us with glorious but brief glimpses of pimms-soaked summer days, the month of hay fever and allergies strike in full force. We've been bitten by the bug that's been making its rounds round the fashion houses and we're in dangerous territory of causing a major fringe movement on a global scale. Welcome to the new S/S 2018 trend of flamboyant fringing!  Throwing it back to the glory days of flapper finesse, modern-day fine jewellery has transformed itself from low-key minimalism to XL swinging tassels of personality and style.   With collections bursting with

Thomson Reuters publishes GFMS Gold Survey 2017

Thomson Reuters has released its  GFMS Gold Survey 2017 , the 50th in the series of annual Surveys, looking at the shifts and developments in the global gold markets, their fundamentals and their drivers, over the year and setting the scene for the future.   Highlights of the Report State Jewellery fabrication slumped 21% last year to estimated 1,892 tonnes, the lowest level seen since 2009.      Total identifiable investment, which includes physical bar and coin investment plus ETF movements, gained 52% in 2016 to reach 1,579 tonnes, the highest since 2012.   Net official sector buying dropped appreciably, to

The Prime Minister Hosts A Celebration Of British Fashion At 10 Downing Street

Prime Minister Theresa May and Chairman of the British Fashion Council Dame Natalie Massenet welcomed representatives from across the British fashion industry to a reception at 10 Downing Street last night. Ahead of London Fashion Week, Theresa May emphasised the importance of the UK’s fashion industry, one of the country’s greatest success stories which contributes £28billion to Britain’s economy and supports nearly 900,000 jobs. London Fashion Week is a global showcase which welcomes guests from over 58 countries, promotes designer brands to an international audience of trade and consumers and generates orders of over £100million each season. The Prime Minister

The Fashion Awards 2016 Winners Announced

The British Fashion Council announced the winners of The Fashion Awards 2016 this week at the Royal Albert Hall. 4,000 members of the industry and the public gathered to watch this year’s awards, where an international set of winners were announced at a larger ceremony than ever before. The room was a who’s who of the fashion industry and their muses; business leaders, creative influencers, global brands, fashion icons and designers from across the globe came together to celebrate their industry.  Notable attendees included Anna Wintour OBE, Carine Roitfeld, Dame Natalie Massenet, David Beckham OBE, Domhnall Gleeson, Gigi Hadid, Joan

will.i.am,'s i.am+ Launch BUTTONS

i.am+   has announced that its 'BUTTONS' premium bluetooth earphones product are now widely available in the UK, in four new  colourways .  The wireless earphones – styled by fashion legend, André Leon Talley – are the brainchild of global music artist and entrepreneur, will.i.am, with brand ambassadors and investors including Kendall Jenner and Naomi Campbell.   BUTTONS fill a gap in the Bluetooth earphone market, offering a  product that allows for high design without the loss of high technology.    Jenner, a next-generation model starring in the campagin alongside Shaun Ross and India Love says, “Getting to be a part

Silver Speaks: The Silversmiths' Toolbox Talk

Contemporary British Silversmiths is partnering with the V&A, the London Design Festival and the Goldsmiths' Centre to deliver a series of exciting events to promote silver in contemporary life. Over nine days in September, the London Design Festival features hundreds of events taking place across London, showcasing the city's pivotal role in global design. The London Design Festival 2016 will be held 17-25 September. Talk: The Silversmiths' Toolbox In Conversation with Contemporary British Silversmiths Join five prestigious members of Contemporary British Silversmiths in conversation on the importance of tools and materials to their practice. Led by Silver Speaks: Form exhibition

Silver Speaks: Idea to Object With Corinne Julius

Contemporary British Silversmiths is partnering with the V&A, the London Design Festival and the Goldsmiths' Centre to deliver a series of exciting events to promote silver in contemporary life. Over nine days in September, the London Design Festival features hundreds of events taking place across London, showcasing the city's pivotal role in global design. The London Design Festival 2016 will be held 17-25 September. Curatorial Tour: Silver Speaks: Idea to Object With Corinne Julius Design critic, journalist and curator, Corinne Julius introduces Silver Speaks: ‘Idea to Object’ in the Silver Galleries. The display of work by members of Contemporary British

Silver Speaks: Silversmithing Demonstration with Rebecca De Quin

Contemporary British Silversmiths is partnering with the V&A, the London Design Festival and the Goldsmiths' Centre to deliver a series of exciting events to promote silver in contemporary life. Over nine days in September, the London Design Festival features hundreds of events taking place across London, showcasing the city's pivotal role in global design. The London Design Festival 2016 will be held 17-25 September. Silversmithing Demonstration: Rebecca De Quin Acclaimed silversmith and Royal College of Art tutor  Rebecca de Quin , will be demonstrating her technique of quilting silver to create her unique pieces. Come along to the V&A’s Silver Galleries throughout

David Warren, International Jewellery Director of Christie’s to speak at NCDIA UK Launch

The Natural Colour Diamond Association (NCDIA) is a non-profit membership organisation whose mission is to train, enlighten and educate the global jewellery community about natural colour diamonds. Since 2003 the association has been spreading their collective expertise through various educational programmes.  Whilst the public is increasingly knowledgeable about white diamonds, there is still a lack of reliable information about natural colour diamonds. The NCDIA seeks to address this by disseminating the most up-to-date gemological information to their members and supplying them with trustworthy marketing and promotional tools. Yves Frey, a specialist in natural colour diamonds, has been a member for 10

MAD's The Store Launches Fine Jewellery Collection

The Store at the Museum of Arts and Design, New York, will premiere its new collection of contemporary fine  jewellery  in May. Entitled “ Redefining Fine  Jewelry ,” the curated selection features works made by hand and crafted by a global cohort of artists, whose cutting-edge  jewellery  reflects the ethos of the Museum of Arts and Design’s or MAD's mission to champion work at the intersection of arts, craft, and design. Each of the pieces featured offers a dynamic contemporary alternative to the traditional heirloom, responsive to our changing lifestyles while remaining timeless in the face of the shifting aesthetics

The Pommier Launches Pop-Up Shop At Boxpark Shoreditch

This May, global online retailer The Pommier will launch its first pop-up shop at Boxpark Shoreditch to showcase its unique and creative range of independent accessory designers. Customers will now be able to experience The Pommier in real life and get to meet the world’s most exciting emerging designers in person for a limited time only. The pop-up will feature 25 designers who will showcase their handmade fashion accessories throughout the week.  The Pommier pop-up shop will launch on 16 May and will be open until 28th May. The shop will house six spectacular designers each day on a rotating

Artist Marks 100 Years of Mesopotamian Warfare

The  modern day  struggles for Baghdad and Mosul have been vast and blo ody – a Spring Fling sculptor  highlights  a  forgotten  conflict  in this region,  exactly  100 years ago.   Ghostly sculptures  highlight  how modern-day b attles  for  Mosul and Baghdad carry echoes of a clash of empires in the First World War.  Recent commemorations of the Great War have often focused on the Western Front, but Mark Gibbs wants us to remember that it was a truly global conflict. In 1917 the struggle for Mesopotamia, which takes in parts of modern Iraq and Syria, was reaching a crescendo as

Top Drawer S/S – Olympia, London

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

Baselworld 2017 Launches with Press Conference

The 100th Edition of the one unmissable trendsetting show that unites key players from all sectors of the global watch and jewellery industry and sets the tone for the coming year, Baselworld 2017, commenced this week with its inaugural press conference. As every year, the eagerly awaited start of a new edition of the most unique annual event for the entire industry was witnessed by the most important international press representatives from print, television and digital media and by many thousands around the world who followed the press conference via the livestream. Mr René Kamm, CEO of the MCH Group,

Star Studded: iKuria Announces Launch of New Collection

London-based fine jewellery brand iKuria has announced the launch of its new collection 'Star Studded'.  The collection is inspired by events including the passing of David Bowie.   “The collection was inspired by David Bowie. I was in a state of shock when I learnt he had passed away and so was my brother in Japan. Then I started to realise how a global icon like him continues to live even after their passing,” said Ikuko Kurahone, the designer and founder of the brand. “The collection is a tribute to him from a humble small jewellery designer.”    In addition,

Benchpeg Awards Judges 2016

Benchpeg is extremely excited to reveal the Judges for the Benchpeg Awards 2016. Each Judge is an expert in their field, which range from fashion markets, art jewellery, commerciality, manufacture, the craft, image making, design, creativity and innovation. They are listed below in alphabetical order. Kate Baxter - The Cut London Kate Baxter is a jewellery designer and founder of fine jewellery blog & consultancy The Cut London. With over 10 years’ experience working within the jewellery industry; as a designer for global brands and as a freelance creative, Kate brought her unique sense of innovation and intuition to launch

Frankie Bridge Featured in Thomas Sabo Spring Shoot

Thomas Sabo , the global premium lifestyle accessory brand, is delighted to release their new Spring Summer 2017 imagery featuring UK and Ireland ambassador, Frankie Bridge. Thomas Sabo   is releasing five new images featuring two distinct looks; which continue to be inspired by the universal ‘Together’ message that has become a hallmark of the Thomas Sabo brand.   The new images display an eye-catching and fashion-forward selection of the new Spring Summer 2017 range, which includes elements of the new Africa collection.   Frankie Bridge said of the shoot,  “ Summer  is nearly here, so I need to update my

Thomas Sabo Launch AW16 Images Featuring Frankie Bridge

Thomas Sabo, the global premium lifestyle accessory brand, is delighted to release their new images featuring UK and Ireland ambassador, Frankie Bridge. Thomas Sabo is releasing three exclusive Autumn/Winter images, featuring Frankie Bridge, which continue to be inspired by the universal ‘Together’ message that defines Thomas Sabo this season. In the shoot, which took place earlier this year, Frankie is seen modelling pieces from the brand new Autumn/Winter 2016 line in the series of images. The campaign displays an edgy and rock selection of jewelley, on-trend for the season ahead; which includes elements of the AW16 Prana, Triangle Diamond, and Nile Treasures collections

Designer Showrooms At London Fashion Week September 2016

The British Fashion Council celebrates the designers who will showcase their latest collections in the Designer Showrooms at Brewer Street Car Park from 16th – 20th September. This season’s showrooms include accessories, bags, footwear, jewellery, multi-label showrooms and ready-to-wear.  This season over 150 designers will showcase new collections in the Designer Showroom; the strong diversity in backgrounds and homes of this season’s line-up illustrates more than ever that London is truly open for business on the global market. The showroom space, designed by David Collins Studio, is at the heart of London Fashion Week (LFW) and will be host to

Stella & Dot: Covet Collection

Stella & Dot, the global social-selling accessories brand have launched the Covet Collection, a new line of fine jewellery, luxury handbags and wallets to bring together a sense of bold and passionate style this fall/winter. The Covet Collection blends timeless beauty with unmistakable quality, and understated luxury with timeless silhouettes. The necklaces feature 14k gold and hand set diamonds (ethical and conflict-free) at highly competitive price points. The chain is custom developed and produced in the U.S. and can be worn at 4 different lengths. The Covet collection is a unique selection of everyday essentials, timeless elegance designed with a

London Fashion Week September 2016 Is Open For Business

London Fashion Week (LFW) September 2016 (16th – 20th September) will welcome over 5,000 guests from 58 countries showing that London and the UK is a major player on the global stage. The LFW schedule is as strong as ever. The 64th edition of LFW will feature 83 designers showcasing SS17 collections on the schedule and over 150 in the Designer Showrooms at Brewer Street Car Park. This season LFW welcomes back international brands MM6 and VERSUS. Sharon Wauchob will be joining the schedule for the first time and Huishan Zhang, Molly Goddard and Teatum Jones will all be showing

Counting Down To Baselworld 2017

At the end of this month new creations and innovations of the global watch and jewellery industry will be presented to the world at Baselworld 2017. Renowned as the unmissable annual show, Baselworld is gearing-up to welcome an array of international visitors. The show is the only one that unites the entire industry under one roof, including world-class players. Baselworld goes live on 23 March and will run until 30 March.  What exemplifies Baselworld is its unique ability to regroup the biggest and most prestigious watch and jewellery brands in the world, emerging design talent, the finest retailers and the

Johnson Matthey PLC: 200 Years Of Inspiring Science and Sustained Innovation

Johnson Matthey, one of the longest-trading businesses in the FTSE 100 I ndex, celebrates its 200th  birthday this year. Now a global leader in science and te chnology  that makes the world cleaner and  healthier, the company was founded in London by Percival Norton  Johns on  in 1817 as a gold assaying  business. In the same year, the first bicycle was built, the sta tes  of Mississippi and Alabama were  created and the fifth President of the United States was  swor n in. In the UK, George III was King,  Lord Liverpool was Prime Minister, the first Waterloo Bridge was 

The Royal College of Art is World’s Leading University of Art and Design for Third Year

The Royal College of Art has again been named the world’s leading university of Art and Design in the 2017 QS World University Subject Rankings, beating top-ranking global universities including MIT, Stanford, Yale and Rhode Island School of Design to the top spot for the third consecutive year. The premier ranking confirms the RCA’s position as the world’s leading university of art and design. In the UK, the College is recognised as being at the forefront of innovation, supporting more successful start-ups than Imperial College and Oxbridge combined, and with 45% of our graduates starting their own creative industry and

Jewellery & Watch Industry Trends: Enamel, Pink and Diamonds

The forthcoming INHORGENTA MUNICH will once again offer exhibitors and visitors the opportunity to find new inspiration for the business year. This is ensured, among other things, by the trends of the year in the jewelry and watch industry worth discovering at the trade show. INHORGENTA MUNICH describes what is fashionable in 2017. Diamonds The diamond jewelry market grew by three percent on a global scale last year already and this trend will continue. Why? Well, due to the engagement’s revival and its celebration by giving a solitaire as an engagement present, diamonds continue to gain in importance. However, consumers

Thomas Sabo Announces New UK & Ireland Ambassador: Frankie Bridge

Thomas Sabo, the global premium lifestyle accessory brand, is delighted to announce a new ambassador – Frankie Bridge, who joins the brand from August 2016.   In becoming an official lifestyle ambassador for THOMAS SABO, Frankie will support the company in expanding its message to both new and old audiences, through store appearances, media interviews, and recommending her favourite products to wear for key seasonal moments, including Holiday and Christmas.   Frankie Bridge is an English pop star and TV presenter. The intention of the new partnership is to strengthen and amplify the THOMAS SABO brand in the UK by

The 2023 Goldsmiths’ Craftsmanship & Design Awards

Held at Goldsmiths’ Hall in London, the annual Awards Ceremony was opened by the Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council’s chair, Anne-Marie Reeves, and hosted by Council Trustees Maeve Gillies and Judith Lockwood, who together announced this year’s award winners. The event welcomed more than 300 guests, including representatives from world-renowned jewellery houses, notable sponsors, industry associations, leading designers, and the UK media.  The Awards presentation was live-streamed which doubled the immediate audience. In her opening remarks, Anne-Marie Reeves told guests and award winners: “ Congratulations to all the winners and especially those who were honoured with special awards. This is

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

News Edit: 1 December 2024

A curated edit of this week's national and international jewellery news... The Royal Mint is turning e-waste into gold jewelery: this new campaign tells the story EveryFriday is looking to help The Royal Mint reposition through its Forever Metal campaign, a circular economy story set in the Brecon Beacons, Wales. www.thedrum.com Wild thing: why the animal jewellery trend is inescapable right now Animals have long been cast in jewellery form, but in 2024, they’re the subject of new fascination. www.vogue.com.au Kering expands its generation award to jewellery with Kering Generation Award x Jewelry The conglomerate, in partnership with CIBJO–the World

‘Exceptional’ Silver Goblet Inspired by Seas and Coastlines Joins Prestigious Collection

Incorporation of Goldsmiths award winner’s work shows off Scotland as a home for world-class silversmithing. A young Glasgow-based silversmith is this year’s winner of a unique award where the prize is the chance to create a spectacular handmade goblet – which becomes part of a highly prestigious collection. Caius Bearder (23), left Guernsey to study at Glasgow School of Art, falling in love with the city and the country, and has now been named The Incorporation of Goldsmiths of the City of Edinburgh’s Outstanding Student of the Year. The title is highly prestigious – with the heads of Scotland’s four

Silversmithing Short Course Bursary

The South Square Trust Award - Silversmithing Short Course Bursary West Dean College, Chichester PO18 0QZ West Dean College, The South Square Trust Award - Silversmithing Short Course Bursary is available for courses taking place at West Dean Sussex before 22 April 2025. The funding is available to early career makers within 10 years of graduating and or setting up their self-employed practice and those currently studying on a postgraduate course in silversmithing or jewellery who are looking for a West Dean silversmithing short course that will help them develop their skills. Courses include  Silversmithing – with an emphasis on

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

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.

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

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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

London Craft Week 2023

London Craft Week 2020 8 - 14 May 2023 London Craft Week celebrates outstanding British and international creativity.  Building on the success of last year’s first International Pavilions, London Craft Week 2023 presents its broadest international programme yet with four Pavilions and a whole host of global events taking place across the city. Through a rich programme of exhibitions, workshops, demonstrations and open studios, LCW 2023 delves deep into heritage crafts, classic designs and contemporary art from nations as diverse as Afghanistan, Hungary, Denmark and Korea.  www.londoncraftweek.com Contact London Craft Week 78 Duke Street London W1K 6JQ info@londoncraftweek.com  www.londoncraftweek.com

Anthropologie Celebrates 'Women who Weld' this International Women's Day

From today, right up 'til April 23rd, the Anthropolgie store on Kings Road, London, will play host to a curated selection of jewellery, designed by Britain's most inspiring female jewellers.  The showcase, which will feature eight designers, was designed to celebrate both International Women's day and Women's History Month, as well as British design. Throughout the event, customers will have the opportunity to buy  one-of-a-kind and numbered pieces, all of which have been carefully handcrafted in the UK. International Women's Day  (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also

International Women's Day Event

International Women's Day Event National Design and Craft Gallery Friday 8 March 1pm - 4pm Celebrate International Women's Day at the National Design and Craft Gallery. Join us for crafternoon tea treats, chats and tote bag screen printing to mark the occasion. All are welcome to drop in between  1pm - 4pm. For group bookings please email   events@ndcg.ie  to confirm your time of arrival. FREE event. International Women's Day  (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. International Women's Day

JOYA Barcelona Art Jewellery & Objects 2019

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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

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

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

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

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

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,

Clerkenwell Design Week 2025

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Craft Focus - Hever Castle and Gardens

Craft in Focus at Hever Castle and Gardens 8 - 11 September 2022 Edenbridge A visit to Hever Castle and Gardens makes a perfect day out. The craft fair is held in marquees within the award-winning Hever Castle Gardens set in 125 acres of glorious grounds at Hever Castle. Highlights include the Italian Garden, the topiary chess set, the Tudor Garden and the 38 acre lake. The moated Castle dates back to the 13  century and was once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. Children can enjoy the playground, while visitors of all ages enjoy the challenge of finding their way through the Water

Elements - Festival of Jewellery 2022

Elements: Festival of Jewellery, Silver & Gold Edinburgh 28 - 30 October 2022 Elements returns for 2022, bringing together forty-six of the UK’s finest Jewellers and Silversmiths for a selling fair, exhibition and series of events at the stunning showroom of Lyon & Turnbull in Edinburgh. From silver vases glittering with flecks of gold, to colourful, three-dimensional sculptural jewellery, Elements celebrates the vast range of expert craftsmanship and innovative design of makers from across the UK. For the first time, award-winning work from the prestigious Goldsmiths' Craft & Design Council (GC&DC) Competition, will be showcased in Scotland at Elements. The

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

Enamelling Workshops - Blending Colours with Enamel

Enamelling Workshops FORGE, Hatton Garden 16 March, 20 April, 6th July Immerse yourself in the vibrant colourful world of enamelling with FORGE’s upcoming workshops! Did you miss out on our last enamelling taster session a few weeks ago? Not to worry! Here’s your chance to join in and master this ancient craft with the talented and multi award winning Linda Connelly with our upcoming enamelling workshops. "Great venue, great tutor, great course, great fun!" - Andrew Beney, February 2024 workshop participant. Cloisonné In this class you will learn how to use vitreous enamelling techniques and cloisonné wires to create a

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

Illuminating Silver, Rauni Higson

Rauni Higson - Illuminating Silver Alchemy in the 21st Century Solo exhibition at Craft in the Bay, Cardiff 9 September to 29 October 2023 Craft in the Bay, Cardiff Rauni Higson announces her first solo exhibition at Craft in the Bay, the Gallery of the Makers’ Guild in Wales, in Cardiff in September 2023. Supported by Arts Council Wales, the exhibition, entitled ‘Illuminating Silver’ will be an insightful glimpse into the process and practice of one of the UK’s leading sculptural silversmiths, Qest scholar and multi-award winning craftswoman. The exhibition will take visitors through the journey of a silversmith, told

New Hatton Garden destination 'FORGE' opens

Forge announces the much anticipated opening of it’s brand new creative jewellery hub in the historic Hatton Garden diamond district. Two weeks of events & workshops will follow a launch party on Thursday 9 February. FORGE is a new Hatton Garden destination conceived and designed by award-winning jeweller Amanda Mansell. After five years of planning and overcoming many challenges including crowd funding during a pandemic FORGE finally opens its doors on 9th February with a long awaited launch party followed by two weeks of exciting events celebrating learning, making and buying jewellery, with special guest speakers and instructors. Part funded

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

Enamelling Workshops - Cloisonné

Enamelling Workshops FORGE, Hatton Garden 16 March, 20 April, 6th July Immerse yourself in the vibrant colourful world of enamelling with FORGE’s upcoming workshops! Did you miss out on our last enamelling taster session a few weeks ago? Not to worry! Here’s your chance to join in and master this ancient craft with the talented and multi award winning Linda Connelly with our upcoming enamelling workshops. "Great venue, great tutor, great course, great fun!" - Andrew Beney, February 2024 workshop participant. Cloisonné In this class you will learn how to use vitreous enamelling techniques and cloisonné wires to create a

The Goldsmiths’ Company appoints Jos Skeates to its Court of Assistants

The Goldsmiths’ Company has appointed Jos Skeates, founder and Managing Director of the award-winning jewellers E.C.One, to its Court of Assistants The Court of Assistants is equivalent to a non-executive board and has overall responsibility for the Company’s affairs. Assistants are elected from within the Company’s membership following a recruitment process focused on key skills and requirements. There are 26 Assistants on the Goldsmiths’ Company’s Court of Assistants, of which 27% are women and 73% men. On Friday 8 March 2024, The Goldsmiths’ Company announced the appointment of a new member of its Court of Assistants – Jos Skeates – who

'Jewellery Oscars' GCDC Awards Exhibition

Jewellery Oscars GCDC Awards Exhibition 2024 Goldsmiths' Hall, London Tuesday 5 to Friday 8 March 2024 Following the Awards Ceremony next Monday, the exhibition will be open to the public from 5th – 8th March between 10am and 5pm in the magnificent Goldsmiths’ Hall, Foster Lane, London EC2V 6BN.  Don’t miss the first opportunity to see the incredible award-winning work from the 2024 Goldsmiths’ Craftsmanship & Design Awards! A unique chance to view the incredible hand crafted jewellery, silversmithing, allied crafts and objet d’art from emerging and established designers, makers and craftspeople. The GCDC team will be on hand for

Amanda Li Hope’s Debut at Goldsmiths’ Fair 2024

Amanda Li Hope has been selected as one of ten new makers to show for the first time at this year’s Goldsmiths’ Fair. Amanda will be showing her handcrafted ethical fine jewellery, including award winning designs, her latest bespoke commissions and unveiling new compositions exclusively at the Fair. One of the first Fairtrade and Fairmined Gold licensees, Amanda combines her values as a goldsmith with her background as an architect. Responsibly sourced materials, meticulous attention to detail and expert artisanship define each of her pieces. Her work is known for her skill in hand alloying her own precious metals from

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

Serpenti Metamorphosis by Refik Anadol

Serpenti Metamorphosis   by Refik Anadol Gallery 3, Saatchi Gallery, London 25th November - 23rd December 2022 Bulgari embarks on a new chapter with award-winning media artist and director Refik Anadol. After last year’s success with their exhibition and digital experience in Piazza del Duomo in Milan, it is London’s chance to celebrate the second chapter of  Serpenti Metamorphosis. From November 25th to December 23rd, Bulgari will present an immersive experience with Refik Anadol’s artwork representing its most famous icon, Serpenti, within the world-renowned Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea, London, for the first time ever. It will be the

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

From Inspiration to Innovation: The Jewellery Collective collaborates with the Hatton Garden BID on panel talk breakfast event for London Design Festival

The Jewellery Collective  – a community-driven members’ association founded on a vision of knowledge-sharing, inspiration and opportunity – has collaborated with the Hatton Garden Business Improvement District (BID) to host an event during London Design Festival. Held in Hatton Garden on Thursday 19 September, From Inspiration to Innovation will platform a sparkling selection of jewellery designers, craftspeople and creative consultants. Over breakfast, these individuals will unpack the jewellery design process for an audience of jewellery and fashion enthusiasts seeking inspiration and practical knowledge of their own. Dan Dower - designer, craftsman and co-founder of award-winning jewellery brand Dower & Hall

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

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

Wallace Chan to feature in new documentary - The Art of Materials

The latest documentary by award-winning director Martina Margaux Cozzi is a visually stimulating portrait of Hong Kong-based multidisciplinary artist Wallace Chan.  ”Although space is infinite, it is insignificant without material. Both time and space are measured by materials. If there’s no material, there is no time. If there’s no material, there’s no space either. It is only because of material, that time and space matter. It is only through growth, ageing and death that we feel the passage of time. It is only through our existence that we learn about space, the physical and spiritual space that we

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: 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?

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,

Full / Part Time Sales Consultant, Anthony Paul Jewellery Windsor

The role Full / Part Time Sales Consultant Anthony Paul Jewellery Cross Store - Windsor | Maidenhead | Henley | Marlow 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. We’re on the lookout

Full / Part Time Sales Consultant, Anthony Paul Jewellery Windsor

The role Full / Part Time Sales Consultant Anthony Paul Jewellery Cross Store - Windsor | Maidenhead | Henley | Marlow 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. We’re on the lookout

Jewellery Sales and Operations Coordinator, Rachel Entwistle Jewellery - Shoreditch, London

Jewellery Sales and Operations Coordinator Rachel Entwistle Jewellery Shoreditch, London Rachel Entwistle Jewellery is a renowned, award-winning brand celebrated for creating meaningful designs that mark life's significant moments. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Shoreditch, we pride ourselves on our unique approach to jewellery, where every piece tells a story. We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Jewellery Sales and Operations Coordinator to join our team. This role plays a key part in supporting the Studio Manager and ensuring seamless operations while delivering outstanding customer experiences in-store. The ideal candidate will be sales-driven, well-organised, and skilled in managing both customer-facing

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

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

Enamelling Workshops - Enamel with Decals

Enamelling Workshops FORGE, Hatton Garden 16 March, 20 April, 6th July Immerse yourself in the vibrant colourful world of enamelling with FORGE’s upcoming workshops! Did you miss out on our last enamelling taster session a few weeks ago? Not to worry! Here’s your chance to join in and master this ancient craft with the talented and multi award winning Linda Connelly with our upcoming enamelling workshops. "Great venue, great tutor, great course, great fun!" - Andrew Beney, February 2024 workshop participant. Cloisonné In this class you will learn how to use vitreous enamelling techniques and cloisonné wires to create a

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

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

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

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

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

Scotland’s annual festival of gold, silver and jewellery is set to sparkle

Elements - Scotland’s only festival celebrating the very best in gold, silver and jewellery – begins tomorrow, bringing a weekend of unparalleled sparkle to Edinburgh.   It will feature a spectacular exhibition of   award-winning work from the Goldsmiths' Craft & Design Council (GC&DC) Competition – being showcased in Scotland for the first time.   There will also be workshops and expert talks.  But the highlight for many will be a selling fair where visitors can meet close to 50 superb makers from all across Scotland and the rest of the UK who will be showing wonderful designer gold, silver

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

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

Learn Hand Engraving with the Hand Engravers Association

Learn Hand Engraving with The Hand Engravers Association The Hand Engravers Association has been running these popular courses for many years and is delighted to announce its first course at the Goldsmiths’ Centre this autumn. Whether you are a complete beginner or a professional jeweller or silversmith 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, the class size is kept to just eight students and run over six evenings so students have time to practice and

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,

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

Cad / Design Intern, Pruden and Smith Ltd - Ditchling, East Sussex

The Role CAD / Design Intern  Pruden and Smith Ltd Ditchling, East Sussex (Nr Brighton) Paid 6 month Internship potential for ongoing employment We are looking for a Jewellery Designer to work 5 days a week (Tuesday to Saturday) in the village of Ditchling near Brighton. This is an exciting chance to be a part of a fast growing and award winning jewellery business.  About the Job Daily tasks will include: In CAD: Modelling existing designs for the digital design library. In CAD: Modelling and costing existing designs with clients variations after or during client appointments. Conducting client consultations and

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

‘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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Quiet Unfolding of Ideas. A retrospective Exhibition: Pamela Ritchie

A Quiet Unfolding of Ideas. A retrospective Exhibition: Pamela Ritchie  2017 Saidye Bronfman Award Laureate Pamela Ritchie creates jewellery that explores linkages between traditional craft processes, contemporary ideas of science and culture, and the language of alternative materials. Her work celebrates the concentrating effect of detail, and the paradox that an abundance of ideas, form, and pattern can be encapsulated in very small objects.  Her studies include an MFA from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design and postgraduate research work in Norway supported by a scholarship from the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada in conjunction with

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

Hockley Mint opens its doors for tailor-made Retailer Days

Birmingham-based fine jewellery and bridal manufacturer Hockley Mint has launched an initiative to support independent jewellery retailers, opening its doors to invite businesses to find out more about Hockley Mint and to network with fellow retailers. The tailor-made events, which will take place in early 2017, will start with a comprehensive tour of Hockley Mint’s state-of-the-art in-house facilities, offering retailers the chance to gain a unique insight into the award-winning manufacturer’s extensive jewellery production capabilities. Visitors will then be invited to spend the afternoon in an informal networking session, where they will be free to discuss hot industry topics and

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

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, 

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

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International Jewellery London has announced the ten new designers chosen for the 2017 IJL  KickStart  initiative. T his annual mentoring programme, now in its ninth year, is recognised within the industry as one of the most successful bursary programmes for new emerging British talent. All ten will exhibit under the  KickStart  umbrella at this year’s show and will also benefit from invaluable marketing support from IJL and co-sponsors, The National Association of Jewellers, to help them grow their businesses. The scheme includes this year the newly titled ‘Industry’s Choice’ award, which will reward one  KickStarter  with a complementary stand in

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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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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

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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

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

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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

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

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The Role Part Time Social Media & Marketing Assistant, E.C One the Jewellers (4 Days a week) 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 Part Time Social Media & Marketing Assistant to join our happy team. The Role The ideal candidate will work closely with our Website Manager to create engaging content for the company's social media presence. This

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9th edition of Jacobs the Jewellers’ Emerging Designer Competition launches this Summer

Supporting craft skills and talent with the Bishopsland Educational Trust, the Goldsmiths’ Centre and HS Walsh Blake Roberts In this year’s 75 th  anniversary year, award winning Jacobs the Jewellers, Reading’s oldest independent jewellery retailer, today revealed the return of its annual Emerging Designer competition featuring nine emerging designers from Bishopsland Educational Trust.   Helping boost fledgling careers, the event combines a virtual show with instore experience reflecting the local and national audience for amazing craft skills and design. As is customary, each competitor creates both a piece from a  jewellery  and an  object  category. Angela Cork, Principal Bishopsland Educational Trust

Fei Liu’s Bespoke Brooch Sells At Auction For A Five-Figure Sum

Jewellery Quarter-based designer Fei Liu has sold his bespoke ‘Poppies in Love’ at auction. In 2021, Fei Liu Fine Jewellery revitalised its fine jewellery line with one-of-a-kind pieces in gold and platinum; selling across the UK, US and Asian markets. Since its rejuvenation, the designer brand has seen sales double from the prior year and a higher intake of bespoke commissions from private collectors. More recently, award-winning jewellery designer Fei Liu sold a one-of-a-kind brooch at auction for a five-figure sum (US dollars). Entitled ‘Poppies in Love’, the brooch reimagines the poppy flower in an abstract wearable form. The brooch

‘Buy Less. Buy Better. Buy Handmade’ This Christmas

Manchester’s Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair launches national Christmas shopping campaign with support from the repair shop’s Jay Blades. With everyone feeling the squeeze this Christmas, Manchester’s award winning Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair (GNCCF) has joined forces with the Crafts Council and other leading UK craft organisations to launch a national Christmas shopping campaign, designed to support makers across the UK and encourage shoppers to  Buy Less, Buy Better, Buy Handmade.   This initiative to promote thoughtful gifting has also received the backing of The Repair Shop’s Jay Blades MBE and The Great Pottery Throwdown’s Keith Brymer-Jones. Ann-Marie Franey,

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

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.

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,

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

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

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: 

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

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: 

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

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

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