Search Results

Museums

Sometimes a little bit of inspiration can go a long way. Here is a list of national museums which have jewellery or related articles, objects or artefacts in their collections... Abbott Hall Art Gallery Kendal Cumbria LA9 5AL www.abbothall.org.uk Aberdeen Art Gallery Schoolhill Aberdeen AB10 1FQ www.aagm.co.uk Art and Archaeology in Lincolnshire Danes Terrace Lincoln LN2 1LP www.thecollectionmuseum.com Ashmolean Museum Beaumont Street Oxford OX1 2PH www.ashmolean.org Bantock House and Park Finchfield Road Wolverhampton WV3 9LQ www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk Bilston Craft Gallery Mount Pleasant Bilston WV14 7LU www.wolverhamptonart.org.uk Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery Chamberlain Square Birmingham B3 3DH www.birminghammuseums.org.uk Black Country Living Museum

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

Glenmorangie Annual Lecture: Simone ten Hompel

Glenmorangie Annual Lecture: Simone ten Hompel 7:00pm – 8:15pm, Thursday 10 October 2019 National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Silversmith Simone ten Hompel discusses her commission from National Museums Scotland and The Glenmorangie Company to create a new piece of contemporary metal artwork inspired by the museum’s early medieval collections. About the Commission As part of the Creating Scotland project, National Museums Scotland and Glenmorangie have commissioned a major new piece of contemporary metalwork for display in the National Museum of Scotland. The current phase of the Glenmorangie Project, Creating Scotland, sees the research focus on the 9th to 12th centuries,

Art of Glass 2018

Art of Glass The National Centre for Craft & Design  20 October 2018 – 20 January 2019 Following its hugely popular exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland, this Autumn The National Centre for Craft & Design is proud to present Art of Glass. The exhibition explores the work of artists embracing the medium of glass in innovative and exciting ways, challenging the perception of glass as merely a material for creating functional objects. Presented in partnership with National Museums Scotland, Art of Glass showcases 15 leading and emerging glass artists working in Britain today. 20 Oct 2018 – 20

Q&A: Stephen Bottomley

Stephen Bottomley is a Jewellery Designer, Academic and Researcher and  will take up position as the new Head of School at the School of Jewellery Birmingham this Spring. Formerly he was the Head of Department and Programme Director of BA & MFA Jewellery and Silversmithing at Edinburgh College of Art. Up until recently he was also Director Post Graduate Research in the School of Design, the Chair of RAFT an Interdisciplinary Network at ECA and on the Board of Craft Scotland. Stephen's jewellery is represented in collections at the National Museums Scotland, British Museum, South East Arts Collection and Royal

The Scottish Silversmith Adrian Hope

The Scottish Silversmith Adrian Hope Adrian Hope is one of the UK’s finest contemporary silversmiths who specialises in refined, traditional techniques. An established silversmith since 1980, now based in The Scottish Borders, Adrian creates beautiful, classic pieces that are both sculptural and functional. Public Collections include: National Museums Scotland, Edinburgh; Aberdeen Art Gallery and Museum, Aberdeen; The Museum of Edinburgh; Bute House Collection, Edinburgh; Victoria & Albert Museum, London; Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths, London; Kelvingrove Museum & Art Gallery, Glasgow; Incorporation of Goldsmiths, Edinburgh Exhibition Run 6 January - 3 February 2018 Venue The Scottish Gallery, 16 Dundas St, Edinburgh

Craft Scotland Summer Show 2019

Craft Scotland Summer Show 2019 White Stuff, Edinburgh 2 - 25 August 2019 Discover statement handmade objects for you, and your home, from 41 Scotland-based makers in one unique location. Craft Scotland is delighted to announce the 41 talented makers that have been selected for Craft Scotland’s Summer Show 2019. Discover statement handmade objects for you, and your home, from 41 Scotland-based makers in one unique location. Now in its seventh year, the Craft Scotland Summer Show is a firm fixture in the calendar. During the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the second floor of White Stuff, in Edinburgh’s city centre, transforms into

Craft Scotland Summer Show 2018

Craft Scotland Summer Show 2018 3 - 26 August 2018 Edinburgh, Scotland This August, discover contemporary design-led craft from 37 Scotland-based makers in one unique venue right in the centre of Edinburgh. You can shop curated handmade objects, including beautiful homewares, exquisite jewellery, stylish accessories and handcrafted gifts. Unleash your creativity with the careful guidance of our knowledgeable makers in the inspirational surroundings of our Summer Show. Many of the workshops are sold out, but we do have some spaces left: Carve a Ring Workshop with CARVE Carve your own ring in jeweller's wax. Get creative and make your own

National Apprenticeship Week 2017

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW 2017) is co-ordinated by the National Apprenticeship Service, the week is designed to celebrate the positive impact apprenticeships and traineeships have on individuals, businesses and the economy. National Apprenticeship Week 2017 will be taking place from 6 to 10 March. The 10th National Apprenticeship Week will bring together employers and apprentices from across England to celebrate the success of apprenticeships over the last decade and will seek to encourage even more people to choose apprenticeships as a fast-track to a great career. Search the NAW  online map  to find more information about National Apprenticeship Week events

The National Festival of Making

The National Festival of Making 5 & 6 July 2025 Blackburn The seventh edition of the National Festival of Making will return to Blackburn, Lancashire on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th of July 2025! The National Festival of Making is curated, produced and delivered by the Festival of Making Community Interest Company (CIC) – registered number: The social enterprise, set up in 2017 has evolved to deliver a festival weekend and year round cultural programme that celebrates making and manufacturing from the kitchen table to the factory floor and advocates for impactful and place specific cultural regeneration in Blackburn, Lancashire

National Festival of Making 2017

A new kind of festival for a new age of making The first National Festival of Making will take place in Blackburn, Lancashire on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 May, 2017. This is an opportunity to see, make and do for residents and visitors to Blackburn town centre as The Festival of Making takes over the streets with music, markets, street food, art, performance, tours, talks and above all, an eclectic mix of making experiences for everyone. With twice the national average of people employed in the manufacturing industry, and a community of talented and creative makers working from homes

National College of Art and Design

The  National College of Art and Design  occupies a unique position in art and design education in Ireland. It offers the largest range of art and design degrees in the State at undergraduate and postgraduate level. Undergraduate: Jewellery & Metalwork - BA (Hons) www.ncad.ie Postgraduate: Jewellery & Metalwork - MFA www.ncad.ie

Elements 2: Festival of Contemporary Jewellery and Silverware - Scotland

Elements 2: Festival of Contemporary Jewellery and Silverware - Scotland This November, The Incorporation of Goldsmiths and Lyon & Turnbull will be holding the second ‘Elements’, an annual festival celebrating contemporary jewellery and silverware in Scotland. Elements Festival Jewellery Fair Elements 2 will see forty-eight of the UK’s most talented jewellers and silversmiths exhibit their work, which will also be available to buy. Exhibitors include Sarah Hutchison, who was recently commissioned to create a diamond-studded teapot to add to the prestigious Chitra Collection of Newby Teas, Bryony Knox who was previously artist in residence at Edinburgh Zoo and Rebecca Joselyn,

Elements – Scotland’s Festival of Jewellery, Silver and Gold

Elements – Scotland’s Festival of Jewellery, Silver and Gold 8 to 10 November 2019 Lyon & Turnbull, Edinburgh Elements, Scotland’s festival showcase for the finest Jewellery, Silver and Gold will be a chance to see work by 50 of the finest designer makers –with around half from Scotland and half from the rest of the UK. The event, organised by The Incorporation of Goldsmiths of Edinburgh in partnership with auctioneers Lyon & Turnbull, is the perfect opportunity to buy beautiful Christmas gifts that will be cherished for many years to come. Attractions include a sales fair with jewellery and silverware

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

Scotland’s Annual Festival of Jewellery, Silver and Gold Pops Up in Aberdeen

Scotland’s Annual Festival of Jewellery, Silver and Gold Pops Up in Aberdeen The highly successful Elements Festival – Scotland’s biggest celebration of jewellery, silver and gold – is staging its first ever event in Aberdeen this weekend. While most of this year’s festival is digital, due to COVID-19, a series of pop-ups are taking place which will allow people to meet some of the finest emerging and established designers and makers from Scotland and the rest of the UK.   This Saturday and Sunday Aberdeen Art Gallery will be hosting four Scottish makers selected for this year’s festival: Christina Hirst

Elements: A Festival of Gold and Silver in Scotland 2017

The Incorporation of Goldsmiths and Lyon & Turnbull are delighted to confirm that Elements 3 will take place from 2 nd -5 th  November 2017 in the stunning showrooms of Lyon and Turnbull in Central Edinburgh. Elements is a 4-day festival of gold and silver in Edinburgh produced by the Incorporation of Goldsmiths and Lyon & Turnbull. The festival comprises an exhibition, a varied programme of events and a selling fair showcasing some of the UK’s most exquisite work in silver and jewellery. The Incorporation and Lyon & Turnbull have a heritage of producing, exhibiting and selling work at the

Gifted, The National Centre for Craft & Design - , Sleaford, Lincolnshire

The National Centre for Craft & Design (NCCD) host their much loved Gifted Contemporary Christmas Market this December, which celebrates its 5th Anniversary this year. The event is on over the weekend of Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th December, kicking off an exciting programme of seasonal activities at The National Centre for Craft & Design. Go along for a festive weekend of shopping, entertainment and free activities for everyone to enjoy. This year there will be musicians, local choirs and demonstrators as well as free drop-in workshops all weekend. Gifted 2016 Dates: Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th December Times: 10am

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

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

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

Appointment: Harriet Kelsall elected first female Chair of the National Association of Jewellers

One of the UK's most respected bespoke designers Harriet Kelsall has been elected as the first female chair of The National Association of Jewellers after serving as Vice-Chair for the past two years. Well-known for championing the causes of education, ethics and the environment in the jewellery industry, Harriet brings a wide range of skills and know-how to her new role, tapping into her experience and expertise from acting as chair of the NAJ's new Education steering group, advising the Government on jewellery making skills as part of the Creative and Cultural skill academy and growing her business Harriet Kelsall

'The Market for Craft' research report published

The Crafts Council and a national partnership of 8 organisations, Arts Council of Wales ,  Contemporary Visual Arts Network ,  Craft Northern Ireland ,  Craft Scotland , Crafts Council,  Creative Scotland ,  Creative United ,  The Goldsmiths’ Company ,  Great Northern Events/Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair , have launched the first report into the consumer market for British craft in over a decade. The main finding that craft sales exceeded £3 billion in 2019 in the Market for Craft Report . The first report to identify and gauge appetite for British craft for over a decade reveals our passion for

PRESS RELEASE: National Association of Jewellers Joins Creative UK to Strengthen Industry Visibility and Voice

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has joined Creative UK as part of a broader commitment to raise the profile of the jewellery, silverware and allied trades within the UK's recognised creative industries. The move follows last year's acknowledgement from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) that the UK jewellery industry plays a vital role in the broader creative economy. By becoming a member of Creative UK - a national organisation that champions and connects the UK's creative sectors - the NAJ aims to support greater policy engagement and access to practical resources for businesses and organisations across

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

PRESS RELEASE: Goldsmiths’ Company and National Saturday Club partner to reach more young people with free Art&Design Clubs nationwide

The Goldsmiths’ Company and the National Saturday Club are excited to announce a three-year partnership aimed at ensuring more young people across the UK have free access to vital creative education. As headline subject partner of the Art&Design programme, the Goldsmiths’ Company will play a key role in supporting the next generation of creatives. This year, the Art&Design programme has enabled over 1,000 young people to explore more than 200 creative disciplines at free Saturday Clubs in 49 locations across the UK.  Founded in 2009, the National Saturday Club gives 13 to 16-year-olds a unique opportunity to study subjects they

From Function to Fantasy: The Brooch

From Function to Fantasy: The Brooch 1st to 12th October 2025, 10:30am to 5pm Wartski, 60 St. James’s Street, London SW1A 1LE The exhibition will span the Bronze Age to the Contemporary, and include loans from museums including the V&A, the Fitzwilliam Museum, the Musée Lalique and the Schmuckmuseum, as well as the National Trust, English Heritage and the Goldsmiths’ Company.  The majority of the works will be drawn from private collections.   Brooches of wide ranging-inspirations and themes will be featured, as will Royal, French Imperial and Russian Imperial examples.  From Sarah Bernhardt to Suffragettes, Sir Edward Burne-Jones to Salvador

Romanian Jewelry Week 2022

Romanian Jewelry Week 6th - 9th of October 2022 Romanian Jewelry Week is an international event organized by Assamblage National Jewelry Association, dedicated to the contemporary jewelry field in Romania and worldwide. The first edition of the event was organized between the 22-27th of September 2020 in 7 galleries, museums and showrooms in Bucharest. Over 150 contemporary jewelry designers presented their collections at ROJW 1.0: 1 designers, collectives, schools and associations of designers from UK, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Spain, Turkey, Germany, Hungary, Canada, Israel, China, South Korea, USA, Brazil, Mexico and many more. The second edition took place between the

Former National Association of Goldsmiths CEO Michael Hoare passes

Veteran jewellery industry stalwart Michael Hoare has passed after a long battle with cancer. Michael studied in the mid seventies at Leicester Polytechnic now De Montford University, and achieved a BA Hons Degree in Fine Art. After graduation he started his professional career in the retail business and joined the Co-operative Midcounties where he worked as a Department Store Manager until 1988. As a brief spell as a Training Consultant he joined the British Independent Retailers Association (BIRA) as saw a very speedy transition into management, and Executive management level. Furthering his interest in both training, retail and trade bodies, [youtube

Appointment: South Coast Watch Business Appoint Guy Allen as Head of National Sales

South Coast watch business Elliot Brown has strengthened its sales team with the appointment of Guy Allen as Head of National Sales. Allen brings 35 years of industry experience to his new role with the Poole-based watch brand. For the past eight years Allen was the UK distributor for French brand Pequignet. Prior to that he owned a retail watch and jewellery business and ran a distribution business in the United States.  During this time Allen was Sales and Marketing Director of both Avia and Burberry and became the first UK distributor for Skagen. Co-founder of Elliot Brown, Ian Elliot, saif of

Spring Fling 2017

Spring Fling is a vibrant visual art and craft open studios event covering the length and breadth of Dumfries and Galloway in South West Scotland; it is highly regarded as one of the UK’s most successful contemporary visual art and craft events.    In Autumn 2015 Spring Fling CIC evolved to become  Upland CIC , a bold, ambitious, world-class rural based visual art and craft development organisation. Spring Fling is Upland's Flagship Event. Dumfries and Galloway; inspiring, vibrant and buzzing with creativity is a well recognised as a haven for artists and makers and Spring Fling has helped put the region on the national

Fifth National Conference on Rapid Design, Prototyping and Manufacture: 28 May 2004, Centre for Rapid Design and Manufacture, Buckinghamshire ... Development Unit, Lancaster University, UK

PRESS RELEASE: The Incorporation of Goldsmiths Unveils Striking Goblets by Militsa Milenkova

The Incorporation of Goldsmiths is pleased to unveil the 2024 Outstanding Student Award goblets, designed and made by emerging Silversmith Militsa Milenkova.  This award offers recent graduates in Scotland the opportunity to undertake a prestigious commission: to design and make a goblet for the collection of the Incorporation of Goldsmiths of the City of Edinburgh. With a history spanning more than five centuries, The Incorporation of Goldsmiths today trades as Edinburgh Assay Office. The selected graduate is paired with a renowned Silversmith based in Scotland to mentor them throughout the commission. Militsa’s design for this goblet is called DOLERITE, originating

Corrugation & Microfolding with Jill Leventon

Corrugation & Microfolding with Jill Leventon 10am - 4pm, Saturday, 8 October 2022 Central Scotland School of Jewellery Dunblane, Scotland Join Silversmith Jill Leventon for a day of structural and textural metalworking. By adding small undulations or corrugations to our metal we will add strength and texture to thin sheets of metal, allow us to work in a sculptural yet economic way. Using simple hand tools and a corrugating roller add pleats, folds, and smocking to your designs, or create lightweight hollow bead forms. For makers who are exploring more environmentally sustainable skills this workshop is perfect. Larger, sculptural pieces

FLOCK Contemporary Christmas Craft & Design fair

FLOCK: Contemporary Christmas Craft & Design Fair The Barn's signature Craft and Design fair is returning this year with a festival format and includes satellite makers-venues and an exciting programme of hands-on craft workshops. This year flock provides even more opportunities to make, experience and purchase high-quality craft and design pieces from over 50 of Scotland's top makers. flock brings two days of the best Christmas shopping in Scotland to your doorstep - come early and beat the crowds! Open Saturday 18 November @ 10am - 5pm Sunday 19 November @ 10am - 5pm Tickets Free entryT FLOCK fringe is

Inaugurated: “Jewellery – Italy. Material Technique Art. Between Ancient and Modern”

Vicenza’s Jewellery Museum is now open to the public, featuring a new exhibition curated by Paola Venturelli, running until 2027. An itinerary from 5 BC to the 21st century. Artefacts and works of art from 13 Museums and Foundations Art, expertise, material and creativity merge into one great story: Italian jewellery. The  Vicenza Jewellery Museum  tells the story through the new “ Jewellery - Italy. Material Technique Art. Between Ancient and Modern”  exhibition, devised and curated by internationally-renowned scholar,  Paola Venturelli . The exhibition, which opens to the public  today, 28 November , will be available to visitors until the  end

Goldsmiths' Fair 2023

Goldmsiths' Fair 2023 Goldsmiths' Hall, London Week One: 26 September to 1 October | Week Two: 3 October to 8 October 2023 Goldsmiths’ Fair, The Goldsmiths’ Company’s annual selling event for independently made fine jewellery and silver, has today announced the 136 craftspeople who will be exhibiting at Goldsmiths’ Hall, in the City of London, from 26 September until 8 October. For more than 40 years, Goldsmiths’ Fair has provided both private collectors and international museums and collections with the opportunity to meet with, and buy pieces from, the most talented independent silversmiths and jewellers working in the

Golden Eyes: A Brief History Of Decorative Understanding @ K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Golden Eyes: A Brief History Of Decorative Understanding Lecture By Alex Estorick at K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery Cockpit Arts, London 26th February 2020 / 6:30 - 8:30pm  For centuries, decorative arts have been considered separately from fine art, with museums continuing to display functional, ‘applied‘ arts apart from those of primarily aesthetic consideration. Yet art‘s contemporary meaning has always depended on its decorative appearance. Proof of this lies in the almost uncanny similarity between the language employed in the 9th century to discuss Byzantine mosaics and that used to explain modernist paintings in the 20th. This talk seeks to come

Matthew Burgess appointed New Head of Goldsmiths’ Fair for 2021

Digital engagement and arts professional, Matthew Burgess, takes on the role for one year as maternity cover for Harriet Scott Friday 15 January: Matthew Burgess joins The Goldsmiths’ Company as Head of Fair for the upcoming 2021 Fair this autumn, covering maternity for Harriet Scott who has been with the Company for over six years. Matthew brings with him a wealth of experience, having worked with leading Mayfair galleries, museums and individual artists both in the UK and internationally. He has organised and managed numerous high-profile commercial and educational events as well as exhibitions and fairs for renowned international artists

Goldsmiths' Fair 2024

Goldmsiths' Fair 2024 Goldsmiths' Hall, London Week One: 24-29 September | Week Two: 1-6 October 2024 For more than four decades, Goldsmiths’ Fair has brought together some of the UK’s best contemporary jewellers and silversmiths, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to buy directly from makers and to discuss their skills, practices and inspirations. It is widely regarded as an essential stop in the international fine jewellery and contemporary silver events calendar. For more than 40 years, Goldsmiths’ Fair has provided both private collectors and international museums and collections with the opportunity to meet with, and buy pieces from, the

Goldsmiths' Fair 2025

Goldmsiths' Fair 2024 Goldsmiths' Hall, London Week One: 24-29 September | Week Two: 1-6 October 2024 For more than four decades, Goldsmiths’ Fair has brought together some of the UK’s best contemporary jewellers and silversmiths, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to buy directly from makers and to discuss their skills, practices and inspirations. It is widely regarded as an essential stop in the international fine jewellery and contemporary silver events calendar. For more than 40 years, Goldsmiths’ Fair has provided both private collectors and international museums and collections with the opportunity to meet with, and buy pieces from, the

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

London Craft Week 2017

London has long had a Fashion Week and a Design Festival. Since 2015, it has had the equivalent for craft: London Craft Week. An inspirational annual event showcasing exceptional and innovative British and international craftsmanship. London Craft Week is a journey-of-discovery programme with a diverse mix of independent master craftsmen, luxury, fashion, museums and galleries and studios, with the makers themselves the heroes and their processes and skills on show. Following the success of the first and second London Craft Week (May 2015 and May 2016), we are building on and expanding the reach of the event with increased visibility,

Jewellery: Wearable Glass

Jewellery: Wearable Glass - National Glass Centre in Sunderland National Glass Centre presents an exhibition of newly commissioned glass jewellery, made through exciting new collaborations between four glass artists and eight jewellers. Glass jewellery has a history going back to the Ancient Egyptians. In the 19th and early 20th the artist Rene Lalique used glass to make jewellery but more recently the use of glass in jewellery by artists has been limited.  Through the exhibition  Jewellery: Wearable Glass  National Glass Centre aims to re-introduce glass as a material to be used by leading jewellers based in Britain. National Glass Centre

Robert Gordon University Aberdeen, Gray’s School of Art

Scotland's  Gray's School of Art  is located on our inspiring parkland campus along the banks of the River Dee on the southern edge of the city of  Aberdeen . Gray's is a highly challenging and stimulating place to develop and refine your creative education.  Undergraduate: Three Dimensional Design (Ceramics, Glass and Jewellery) - BA (Hons) www.rgu.ac.uk

University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh College of Art

Edinburgh College of Art  ( ECA ) is an art, design, creative and performing arts school in Edinburgh, the oldest and largest in Scotland, providing higher education in art and design, architecture, history of art and music disciplines for over two thousand  University of Edinburgh  students.  Undergraduate: Jewellery & Silversmithing – BA (Hons) www.eca.ed.ac.uk BA Jewellery & Silversmithing www.ed.ac.uk Postgraduate: Jewellery – MA www.ed.ac.uk

Perspectives - Creating Jewellery for a Fairer Future

Perspectives - Creating Jewellery for a Fairer Future Fair and Beautiful – New Exhibition is set to Lead the Way on Ethical Luxury Gorgeous work by nearly 40 leading makers and designers is being brought together in an exhibition dedicated to ethical jewellery and silversmithing. Perspectives will be at the heart of the Elements 4 festival of jewellery, silver and gold, in Edinburgh from 19-21 October. It is part of a wider drive to make Scotland a world-leader in ethical jewellery making and silversmithing. Among the items on show will be designer pieces made using found and waste materials including

Imperial Splendours Exhibition - Beijing

Set in the Palace Museum, Beijing, formerly known as the Forbidden City, the ' Imperial   Splendo u rs'  exhibition spans the history of the  Maison  Chaumet  from the 18th century to the beginning of the 21st;  illustrating the uninterrupted transmission of exceptional savoir-faire. Under the scientific direction of Henri  Loyrette , the exhibition will run until July, 2 nd   and is built around   Chaumet’s patrimonial  wealth; a unique body of historic jewels, drawings and archives. Some 300 works, jewels, paintings, drawings and  objets  d’art illustrate  Chaumet’s  characteristic “art of  jewellery ”. Prestigious collections and prominent museums have come 

Scottish Freemen of the Worshipful Company of Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers

Scottish Freemen of the Worshipful Company of Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers  5th – 28th March 2026 The Scottish Gallery, Edinburgh The Scottish Gallery, Edinburgh, is pleased to present an exhibition by Scottish Freemen of the Worshipful Company of Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers from 5th – 28th March 2026. This exhibition brings together a selection of accomplished makers whose work reflects the highest standards of contemporary craftsmanship. On display will be a selection from each jeweller based in Scotland, including new work that balances tradition with innovation. While united by a shared respect for material, process, and hand skill,

Jewellery Now: The Curators’ Edit

Jewellery Now: The Curators’ Edit 5 July – 21 September 2025 Ruthin Craft Centre Designer-made, one-of-a kind jewellery is having a moment: a Golden Age, worthy of celebration.  Jewellery Now  presents a rare snapshot of inspirational jewellery today, made by some of the best and most interesting designer jewellers from England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. From the most experienced to those making exceptional work at the start of their careers, discover breathtaking technical skills, exciting experimentation with materials, innovative processes and imaginative responses to grave ethical and environmental concerns. Gallery 1  features the extraordinary range of materials and processes

Contemporary Craft & Design Fair 2021

Contemporary Craft & Design Fair Dovecot Studios, Edinburgh Saturday 5 June - Sunday 6 June 2021 10am - 5pm This summer, Dovecot will showcase 24 designers and makers in its world famous Tapestry Studio, offering visitors the opportunity to support our local creative economy. Taking place in Dovecot’s airy spaces, visitors will be able to safely browse the work of contemporary textiles, homeware, jewellery, beauty and accessories designers including Green Thomas, Anne Watson Jewellery, Emily Millichip and Tessuti Scotland. Committed to showcasing the best in contemporary art, craft, and design, Dovecot is delighted to provide a platform for the creative

Introduction to Enamelling with Elizabeth J Campbell

Introduction to Enamelling with Elizabeth J Campbell Saturday 7 & Sunday 8 October Dunblane, Scotland A two-day, weekend course learning the magic of enamel jewellery making, this class is suitable for beginners as well as students looking to expand their skills. Students will learn how to prepare metal before enamelling, apply colour and textures, and then how to use the kiln to fire their pieces. We will also look at how to apply findings to an enamelled design to create final pieces that can be displayed or worn. The workshop will cover a range of decorative techniques such as sifting,

Eco Metal Masterclass – Recycling Precious Metals

Eco Metals Masterclass Sunday 5 November Dunblane, Scotland As increasingly more makers and designers are looking for ways to make their practice more sustainable and less impactful to the environment, CSSJ will host an ‘Eco Metal’ workshop dedicated to learning skills and methods needed to recycle gold, silver and other metals. With very little equipment, it is possible to melt down pieces of precious metal and turn them into fabulous cast pieces of jewellery within a home studio environment! This workshop will focus on charcoal ingots and granulation with students leaving the workshop with a unique cast ring. Other ingot

Obituary: Graham Stewart 1955 - 2020

Silversmith Graham Leishman Stewart, who has died in Edinburgh on Wednesday 28 October aged 65, was a talented master craftsman who remained humble about his achievements and his skill. His most recognisable work, Three Honours of Scotland, remains on display in the Main Hall of the Scottish Parliament. We publish two obituaries of our friend and colleague: Obituary: Graham Stewart, Scottish silversmith whose work graces Holyrood parliament building Graham Leishman Stewart, silversmith. Born: July 10 1955 in Bridge of Allan. Died: October 28 2020, aged 65. www.scotsman.com Appreciation: Graham Leishman Stewart- 1955-2020, Silversmith Graham Stewart, who died in Edinburgh on

Engraving Masterclass with Dario Bartzella

Engraving Masterclass with Dario Bartzella Saturday 24 & Sunday 25 June 2023 Dunblane, Scotland Join us for an exciting Engraving Masterclass for those with previous jewellery experience. This two-day course is a great opportunity to learn the art of engraving. First we'll learn how to prepare a graver and plate, then we'll begin perfecting the skills of basic core cuts, and explore how to translate them into designs. We'll focus on repeat patterns and mark making to create textured surfaces that can stand alone or be used as a base for transparent enamels. Over the weekend we'll develop a solid

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

Great Scots in Isolation @ The Scottish Gallery

Great Scots  The Scottish Gallery Online 3 - 27 June 2020 The Scottish Gallery are pleased to introduce  Great Scots in Isolation , which is a series of short 1-2 minute films by Scottish Gallery artists from Scotland, UK and internationally. The Scottish Gallery wants to show solidarity to all at this time of isolation and let you into our artists' worlds.  When the country went into lockdown on the 23rd March 2020, our lives changed dramatically. As the world around us closed down, our instinct was to reach out to our artists and allow them to have a voice [youtube [youtube [youtube [youtube [youtube [youtube

From The Greenhouse @ The Scottish Gallery

From The Greenhouse @ The Scottish Gallery  The Scottish Gallery presents From The Greenhouse , an exhibition curated by Millie Behrens celebrating, for the first time collectively and in Scotland, three Norwegian jewellers all inspired by botany and the natural world. Millie, Ingjerd and Åse-Marit are extremely grateful to Norwegian Crafts for the funding that has helped to make this exhibition possible.  Knowing each other since the eighties through Art College and various other means, Millie, Ingjerd and Åse-Marit all realised they had a similar interest in botany and the natural world, leading them each to design and create contemporary

Vanilla Ink Open Day

Vanilla Ink Open Day Glasgow, Scotland 10 - 11 April 2019 Vanilla Ink is throwing open its doors to give you a chance to have a good nosey and find out all about the Jewellery School in the West End of Glasgow. Ever wondered what it is we do and all the things we offer, or simply after some tool porn? For the first time since we moved in to our West End location, Vanilla Ink is having an Open Day(s) and welcoming you in to have a wander. This will be a chance for you to come and have

London Design Fair - Old Truman Brewery, London

The 10th anniversary of the London Design Fair runs from 22 – 25 September 2016. This year sees the addition of an amazing new 3rd floor, with country pavilions, features and exhibitions including: 100% Norway, China Academy of Art, British Craft Pavilion, Design in South Italy, Design Prize Switzerland, Form & Seek, Inspiring Portugal, Liu Malmsten & Swedish Wood, Nature Lab, Nordic Design Collective, Scotland: Craft and Design, Swedish Design Pavilion, Takram, The Publishing House (Flea Folly), The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, This Is India & Trentino Collaborations Not to mention over 450 independent designers & studios and

Celebrating Sarah Letts

Celebrating Sarah Letts Sarah Letts: 1936 – 2017 A unique opportunity to view the drawings, paintings and jewellery created by Sarah Letts in her lifetime. Curated with her family, Studio Fusion is proud to present this work in the gallery where Sarah was co-founder and co-director for over 20 years. Sarah Letts originally trained as a fine artist before she started to focus on making one-off pieces of jewellery. All her metalwork had its own distinct identity, with her signature striated engraving bringing depth and luminosity to the enamel. Inspired by her garden, the land and seascapes of north Scotland,

Q&A: Mary Michel

Mary Michel is the Director of the Incorporation of Goldsmiths in Edinburgh. She has been with the company for 15 years and is responsible for initiatives such as Elements and the forthcoming online Ethical Making Resource . She also sits on the board of Craft Scotland and is their Vice-Chair. She answers the Benchpeg Q&A. What’s your name, and what do you for a living? MM: Mary Michel, I’m the Director of the Incorporation of Goldsmiths in Edinburgh . How did you come to work in the jewellery industry? MM: By happy accident – I started here 15 years ago on a

Gifted 17 Contemporary Christmas Craft Market

Gifted 17 Contemporary Christmas Craft Market Join National Centre for Craft and Design for a special advent weekend of high-quality craft, local specialist food and a family friendly programme of workshops a Christmas craft trail, activities, demonstrations, musicians and exhibitions. Dates 9 - 10 December 2017 Venue The National Centre for Craft & Design Navigation Wharf, Carre Street Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 7TW www.nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk

Q&A: Patrick Fuller

Patrick Fuller has been at the helm of the jewellery industry for some 30 years. A charismatic individual who has held every senior influential position in the British jewellery industry going. He is currently a Guardian of the Birmingham Assay Office, a Liveryman of the Goldsmiths Company and President of the National Association of Jewellers as well as a Freeman of the City of London. A former President of the National Association of Goldsmiths; President of Emagold Europe; Director of the British Jewellery and Giftware Federation; President of the British Jewellery and Giftware Federation; Member of the British Hallmarking Council

Bits and Bobs

Keeping up to date with the goings on outside of the workshop and away from the bench helps widen the peripheral vision.  W e've compiled a list of national and international jewellery publication titles including newsletters, magazines and our favourite blogs to help keep you in touch with the wider world...

BE JEWELLED

Be Jewelled  Open Studio exhibition and sale of jewellery by the Flux Studios collective Showing at Fux Studios, 14 of the most exciting jewellers whose exceptional creativity is forged from the streets of South London:  Alex Yule Barbara Yarde Barbora Rybarova Becky Dockree Elena Timbaliuc Emma McGilchrist Ezra December Heidi Agbowu Ilona Guest Jacqui Qinn Katherine Brunacci  Maggie Laing Raffaella Nissi Vicky Forrester Celebrating our diversity with influences from England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, France, Italy, Slovakia, Moldova, Nigeria, The Carribean, Tasmania  Also showing at Vanguard Court: Creatives including Musu Quilts Black Cactus printed textiles Chris Keenan ceramics Carina Ciscato ceramics

UK Jewellery, Silverware and Allied Crafts Industry Roundtable 3rd Meeting

At the third meeting of the UK Jewellery, Silverware & Allied Crafts Industry Roundtable with esteemed colleagues from all facets of the sector there was a full agenda for the 3.45 hour in-person meeting held in the Court Room at Goldsmiths’ Hall. Chaired by Adam Jacobs, Chair, National Association of Jewellers & facilitated by Ben Massey, CEO of the National Association of Jewellers with Annie Warburton, CEO of The Goldsmiths Company hosting, attendees included: Isabel Rhodes, Houlden Group; Janet Weller, Institute of Professional Goldsmiths; Sally Dodson, Hand Engraving Association; Patrick Turner, Company of Master Jewellers; Andrew Hinds, F Hinds; John

Mehdi Saadian Appointed NAJ Vice Chair

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) is delighted to announce the appointment of Mehdi Saadian, Director of the GIA London campus, as the new Vice Chair of the NAJ. A distinguished member of the jewellery and valuation profession, Mehdi is an active member of the Institute of Registered Valuers (IRV) and the Academy of Experts. He has played a significant role in the NAJ's National Committee since   joining in 2022, contributing to simplifying, standardising and visualising the governance model of the Association. Mehdi will succeed Adam Jacobs as Chair in 2026. Commenting on his new role, Mehdi shared, "I'm truly honoured to take

NAJ Summit 2024

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) Summit 22 - 24 June 2024 Park Regis, Birmingham  The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) is delighted to announce the dates for this year's NAJ Summit - the Association's annual conference bringing all sectors of membership and the wider trade together to network and learn. The 2024 NAJ Summit will take place from 22 to 24 June at the Park Regis Hotel, Birmingham, providing an accessible and modern venue for attendees. The extended weekend will once again feature the Valuers' Conference hosted by the Institute of Registered Valuers and the Retail Jeweller's Congress hosted by

Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair

The Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair (BGJF) 22 - 26 February  2025 Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok The Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair (BGJF) is among the leading international trade fairs for gemstones and jewelry. Hosted in the impressive Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, this biannual event reflects Thailand's esteemed position in the world of gemstones and jewelry. It's organized by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) in collaboration with the Gems Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT). The fair not only provides a deep insight into Thailand's rich artisanal heritage but also reinforces Thailand's reputation as

Bishopsland announces the opening of its new HQ

Bishopsland announces the opening of its exciting new home for professional training and partnership with the National Trust’s Heritage and Rural Skills Centre Bishopsland has successfully completed the first phase of its relocation to Buscot and Coleshill and a new partnership with the National Trust’s Heritage and Rural Skills Centre, marking an exciting milestone in its journey.  Bishopsland Educational Trust have disclosed to Benchpeg that they are thrilled to formally announce that their project to relocate and establish a future for silversmithing has been generously supported by the South Square Trust and the De Beers Group. The project is also

Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair

The Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair (BGJF) 21 - 25 February 2024 Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok The Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair (BGJF) is among the leading international trade fairs for gemstones and jewelry. Hosted in the impressive Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, this biannual event reflects Thailand's esteemed position in the world of gemstones and jewelry. It's organized by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) in collaboration with the Gems Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT). The fair not only provides a deep insight into Thailand's rich artisanal heritage but also reinforces Thailand's reputation as

PRESS RELEASE: NAJ Awards 2025 Deadline Extended

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has extended the deadline for entries to the 2025 NAJ Awards, giving more time for individuals and businesses across the industry to showcase their achievements and be recognised on a national stage. Submissions are now open until Friday, 8th August , allowing members and the wider trade extra time to enter and help shine a light on the ideas, people, and enterprises that are driving the UK jewellery industry forward. Organised under three themed pillars – Great Ideas, Great People and Great Businesses – the 15 award categories recognise the full spectrum of talent,

Jewellery: Wearable Glass at Studio Fusion

Jewellery: Wearable Glass In collaboration with the National Glass Centre. 'Jewellery: Wearable Glass’, a concept realised by the National Glass Centre aims to change the approach and perception of both audiences and artists to the amazing potential of glass as a wearable material. Eight jewellers were each mentored by one of 4 artists with different specialisms in the art of making and forming glass. The jewellers were given 10 days of studio time to collaborate, experiment and develop new forms of jewellery.  The results are truly unique and exciting pieces that show how collaboration between artists in different disciplines can

Rising Stars Symposium 2018

Rising Stars Symposium 2018 Rising Stars is a curated, national platform to foster and champion students and recent graduates from BA and MA crafts, design and applied arts programmes across the UK. Rising Stars aims to offer new makers their first step into the market place, through a curated, selling exhibition. The programme will consist of the Rising Stars exhibition at the New Ashgate Gallery, Farnham, that enables new makers to access the market place and collectors; professional development including knowledge transfer and skills exchange, a national symposium; and a catalogue to act as a promotional tool for the selected

Rising Stars Exhibition 2018

Rising Stars Exhibition Rising Stars is a curated, national platform to foster and champion students and recent graduates from BA and MA crafts, design and applied arts programmes across the UK. Rising Stars aims to offer new makers their first step into the market place, through a curated, selling exhibition. The programme will consist of the Rising Stars exhibition at the New Ashgate Gallery, Farnham, that enables new makers to access the market place and collectors; professional development including knowledge transfer and skills exchange, a national symposium; and a catalogue to act as a promotional tool for the selected makers. 

Benevolent Society Ball 2016

Benevolent Society Ball and National Association Of Jewellers’ Membership Awards Event The event, which is taking place on Thursday 1 December at the prestigeous St John’s Hotel in Solihull attracted over 400 key industry guests last year and all looks good for an even greater turnout this year. The evening starts with a champagne reception sponsored by the National Exhibition Centre and the NAJ’s membership awards adds a great deal of excitement as the nominees wait with bated breath to learn whether they have won one of these illustrious awards. As well as helping needy people who used to worked

European Prize For Applied Arts 2019

Monumentality / Fragility: European Prize For Applied Arts 7th February – 23rd June 2019 National Design & Craft Gallery and Kilkenny Castle Kilkenny will host major exhibition of works from 76 makers from 19 European countries at dual locations: the National Design & Craft Gallery and Kilkenny Castle Monumentality / Fragility, a major exhibition of contemporary crafts featuring 76 makers from 19 European countries, including seven Irish participants, will show at two locations in Kilkenny in February 2019. The European Prize for Applied Arts aims to reward the best creations of contemporary expression in applied arts and craftsmanship. The exhibitors and

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

Higher Education Institutions

We've complied a list of all the national organisations offering jewellery, silversmithing or metal at HND or degree level here... Coleg Sir Gâr, Carmarthen School of Art www.colegsirgar.ac.uk Central Saint Martins www.arts.ac.uk/csm Edinburgh College of Art, University of Edinburgh www.eca.ed.ac.uk Glasgow School of Art www.gsa.ac.uk Gray’s School of Art, Robert Gordon University Aberdeen www.rgu.ac.uk Hereford College of Arts www.hca.ac.uk Kensington and Chelsea College www.kcc.ac.uk London College of Fashion www.arts.ac.uk/fashion Middlesex University www.mdx.ac.uk National College of Art and Design www.ncad.ie Plymouth College of Art www.plymouthart.ac.uk School of Jewellery, Birmingham City University www.bcu.ac.uk/jewellery Sheffield Hallam University www.shu.ac.uk Staffordshire University www.staffs.ac.uk Turo and

The Rock Crystal Exhibition At The Cluny Museum: Explore This Fascinating Material Through Time And Space

The Rock Crystal Exhibition At The Cluny Museum: Explore This Fascinating Material Through Time And Space From 26 September 2023 to 14 January 2024 Paris Rock crystal has fascinated every civilisation since time immemorial for its mysterious translucence. From 26 September 2023 to 14 January 2024, the Musée de Cluny – Musée National du Moyen Âge will be taking visitors on a journey through the history of crystal from the present day to the Middle Ages and beyond. During medieval times in particular, this colourless quartz was a much coveted material for making tableware and other precious items such as

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.

PAN Amsterdam

PAN Amsterdam The largest national art fair 19 - 26 November 2023 in the Netherlands Mark Grol, the Managing Director PAN Amsterdam: "I am incredibly proud of the variety of exhibitors at this 36th edition; many new, young gallery owners are standing alongside trusted international art dealers. All 120 spaces have been filled with exhibitors from the Netherlands, the United States, Germany, France, Belgium, the UK and Italy. They represent some of the finest of modern and contemporary art, design and photography, as well as a strong representation of old masters, 19th-century paintings, silver, Asian art and, for the first

Bishopsland Retrospective Exhibition & Awards

Bishopsland Retrospective Exhibition & Awards Saturday 19 July 2025 Near Swindon, Oxfordshire Join Bishopsland for the end of year Retrospective Exhibition Bishopsland's first public event at their new home within the National Trust’s Heritage & Rural Skills Centre in Buscot, Oxfordshire.  You are invited to join Bishopsland where you’ll be able to look around their new workshops, see the contemporary hand-crafted work which has been designed and produced onsite all year, and help them congratulate their cohort as they receive their Certificates of Achievement. The event will be open from 3.30pm and light refreshments will be served.  Please park in

Journey into Crystal with L'École Van Cleef & Arpels

Journey into Crystal with L'École Van Cleef & Arpels How much do you know about rock crystal? The "Journey into Crystal" exhibition currently presented at the Musée de Cluny - Musée National du Moyen Âge, where this conference will be filmed, is an incredible opportunity to discover this fascinating, transparent material. Found as far back as 5,000 BC, notably in the form of pearls, rock crystal is the most widespread variety of quartz (hyaline quartz). Its name comes from the Greek word "krustallos" meaning "ice", which has long been attributed to a divine creation, and has contributed to enriching the collective

PRESS RELEASE: NAJ Launches New Code of Practice to Support Jewellers in Meeting Legal Requirements for Weighing Precious Metals

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has released a new Code of Practice designed to help jewellery businesses understand and comply with the legal requirements surrounding the use of weighing equipment when buying, selling, or valuing precious metals and stones. The document, developed at the request of and with guidance from Trading Standards, provides clear, practical advice to ensure jewellers remain compliant with regulations.  The new Code of Practice clarifies when Class II weighing instruments are required, what markings and approvals jewellers must look for, and the importance of location-specific calibration. It also outlines common pitfalls, such as relying on

Bristol’s Silver & Steel Studios Finalist For New Green Growth Awards

Local Jewellery Studio, Silver & Steel has made it to the final of awards after impressing judges for their approach to driving growth through sustainability.  Silver & Steel in Bristol has been selected as a finalist for the first-ever ‘Green Growth Awards’, a new national competition recognising small businesses leading the way in embracing sustainability to innovate and drive business growth. Launched by Small Business Britain, in partnership with BT, the inaugural Green Growth Awards will award two sustainability grants of £5000 to two small businesses that have successfully boosted their bottom line by implementing sustainable initiatives. The grants will

PRESS RELEASE: Winners announced of the Touchstone Award- for hallmarking enforcement and education

The British Hallmarking Council has awarded the Touchstone Award 2025 to London Trading Standards (LTS) for their role in Operation Stamping it Out, at the recent Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) annual conference in Blackpool.  The Touchstone Award, launched by the British Hallmarking Council in 2012, sponsored by the National Association of Jewellers and supported by the CTSI, recognises the most effective initiative relating to hallmarking enforcement or education delivered by a local authority. Launched in 2023, Operation Stamping It Out, is a pioneering hallmarking education and enforcement project, established and funded by the London Assay Office and delivered in

PRESS RELEASE: UK Assay Offices Call for Reform of Hallmarking Law to Protect Consumers in the Digital Age

The four UK Assay Offices — Birmingham, Edinburgh, London and Sheffield — have issued a joint open letter to Members of Parliament calling for urgent reform of the Hallmarking Act 1973, warning that the legislation is no longer fit for purpose in today’s digital retail environment. The letter is fully supported by the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ).  Hallmarking remains a cornerstone of consumer protection, providing independent assurance of precious metal quality and safeguarding public trust in jewellery and silverware. However, the Assay Offices highlight that the current legal framework predates e-commerce and fails to adequately regulate online marketplaces, social

PRESS RELEASE: Craftsman with 50 years’ experience named Precious Metalworker of the Year

Somerset-based polisher Stephen M Goldsmith has won this year’s  Precious Metalworker of the Year Award , supported by The Royal Mint, including a £2,000 prize and trophy awarded at a special presentation at Wentworth Woodhouse this week (Monday 17 November). Heritage Crafts was set up 15 years ago as a national charity to support and safeguard heritage craft skills, and has become well known for its  Red List of Endangered Crafts , the first research of its kind to rank traditional crafts in the UK by the likelihood they will survive the next generation. The award, supported by  The Royal

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair 2023

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair 2023 19-22 October 2023 Victoria Baths, Manchester Boasting a national reputation, Great Northern Events organises the foremost selling fairs in the North. Over 150 of the UK’s best designer-makers are presented at our flagship live fair, GNCCF, in Manchester’s iconic Victoria Baths in October, complemented by two digital fairs - GNCCFonline -  in May and December. We offer makers an unrivalled opportunity to put their work in front of an eager and savvy audience in a way that suits them and their buyers best. Venue: Victoria Baths, Hathersage Road, Manchester, M13 0FE Opening Times  

Scoop 2025

Scoop 13 - 15 July 2025 Olympia National, London Scoop International is a celebration of exceptional design in the heart of London. Scoop is recognised by designers, fashion buyers and industry experts as one of the UK’s leading fashion and lifestyle trade shows. Scoop's unique buying environment - carefully curated to reflect retail trends - sets it apart in the industry. Our exhibitor list is selected each season to focus on emerging international designers and lifestyle brands, many of whom select Scoop as their only trade platform. Launched in February 2011 by industry veteran Karen Radley, Scoop has since developed

Made Brighton 2024

Made Brighton 28 November – 1 December 2024 Brighton Dome – Corn Exchange The Fair MADE BRIGHTON returns 28 November – 1 December 2024 to the Brighton Dome – Corn Exchange. MADE BRIGHTON is a national craft and design show for Brighton bringing the best makers in the country to the South Coast for an exciting, innovative, top quality, Christmas show. The Corn Exhange Our venue underwent a huge and extensive renovation over the past seven years. MADE BRIGHTON 2023 was one of the first events in the newly reopened venue. The building is stunning, stripped back to its original

PRESS RELEASE: The 2025 Valuers' Conference Delivered Education and Community in Equal Measure

Jewellery valuers, students, international guests and wider trade joined together in Birmingham last weekend (7-8 June) for two days of learning and networking for the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) Valuers' Conference, hosted by the Institute of Registered Valuers (IRV). The 36th Valuers Conference, supported by headline sponsor Bonhams, saw international and UK experts share their wisdom and expertise on Saturday. These included… Kate Flitcroft shared insights from a distinguished auction career, reflecting on her experiences at Bonhams and what they reveal about jewellery valuation today. Dr Aaron Palke explored the latest GIA research into coloured stone origin

Rising Stars 2024

Rising Stars 2024 New Ashgate Gallery,  Farnham 16 March - 27 April 2024 Rising Stars  is a curated national platform that fosters and champions early career makers. Rising Stars offers the makers a first step into the professional exhibitions. It offers an exciting opportunity for collectors who wish to support and acquire work by future stars. Following a popular open call with 165 applications,  27 Rising Stars  were selected for the showcase. We recognise there is a lack of representation from Black, Asian, and ethnically diverse backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ makers and makers who identify as having a visible or non-visible disability in

Craft Festival: Preparing To Sell Is Goes On Tour!

Craft Festival: Preparing To Sell Is Goes On Tour! Craft Festival’s Preparing to Sell tour starts in a couple of weeks and the first Preparing to Sell at Make Southwest in Bovey Tracey on January 22nd is sold out. But fear not, there are 4 more venues to choose from. Preparing To Sell in Cardigan Following the huge success of Craft Festival Wales at Cardigan Castle last September, we return to Theatre Mwldan in early February. I will be joined by maker business owners Sophie Snow Textiles, Justyna Medon from Addicted to Patterns and the National Eisteddfod. The day includes

Trade Shows

Selling work is how businesses survive, and knowing where to sell helps fill the diary with hot spots of commercial activity. We've compliled a list of national and international trade shows and events which are regular dates in the trade diary... Additive Manufacturing Europe  When: June Where: RAI, Amsterdam  This is the business-to-business show for the additive manufacturing / 3D printing industry - with more products, more launches and more live demonstrations! amshow-europe.com Autumn Fair  When:  Annually, September Where: NEC Birmingham Autumn Fair is the season's No.1 gift and home wholesale trade show for the retail industry. Launched in September 1990,

JewelryAround at Palakiss Winter 2020 during VicezaOro

JewelryAround at Palakiss Winter 2020 during VicezaOro 17 - 22 January 2020 Vicenza, Italy Persian collective JewelryAround  will be showing at Palakiss Winter 2020 (during VicezaOro January). JewelryAround  is all about the the world of contemporary jewellery presenting emerging designers and artists from all around the Middle-East in Europe one day.  Palakiss is an internationally renowned jewellery exhibition which organizes 4 events a year of which 3 are National Exhibitions in which take part Italian and international companies. Palakiss, operating since 1999, is an internationally renowned jewelery center dedicated to jewelery and goldsmiths, which organizes 4 events a year, mainly

Dazzle London 2024

Dazzle London Royal Watercolour Society Gallery 3-5 Whitcomb Street, London WC2H 7HA 30 October - 3 November 2024 Dazzle are delighted to announce that 'Dazzle London' will be back this October.  They have found the perfect new venue in a great central London location - the Royal Watercolour Society Gallery. The new gallery space is situated in a prime central location on Whitcomb Street, just off Trafalgar Square, the RWS Gallery provides a modern and contemporary backdrop for their exhibition, located directly behind the national gallery and only 5 minute walk from Charing Cross, Leicester Square and Piccadilly stations. The curated exhibition

Striking Futures

The NAJ and Sheffield Assay Office Join Forces for Striking Futures Event The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) and Sheffield Assay Office are pleased to announce Striking Futures, a new collaborative event designed to help businesses and students get ahead in the jewellery industry. Taking place on Thursday, 3rd November, Striking Futures promises to be a must-attend afternoon,   whether embarking on a career in the sector or looking to boost your business. Register NAJ’s Principal Officer, Ben Massey, states, “We’re excited to collaborate with the Sheffield Assay Office to deliver an educational industry event that will provide great value,

Bishopsland Launch £2.5M Capital Fundrasing Campaign

Bishopsland has announced today a new fundraising campaign ahead of its imminent relocation to the National Trust Buscot and Coleshill Estate in South Oxfordshire. The Bishopsland Educational Trust is taking out a 30 year lease on a 7,750sq ft historic Grade II listed derelict building to create a new home for Bishopsland, to develop spacious workshops, dedicated machine/hammering rooms, flexible creative and digital working areas, incubation workshops, offices, meeting facilities and accommodation. The organisation is due to commence activities on site from summer 2024. The Bishopsland Educational Trust is inviting visionary founding partners, dedicated funders, forwardthinking corporate sponsors and those

The Romanian Jewelry Week 2024

Romanian Jewelry Week 2nd - 6th October 2024  Bucharest,  Romania Romanian Jewelry Week is the largest international event organized in Romania dedicated to contemporary jewelry, organized by Assamblage National Jewelry Association since 2020. The format of event includes each year a large area of exhibitions, fairs, conferences, workshops, seminars and guided tours, with one main location as well as connex locations. The Romanian Jewelry Week awards are designated by an international jury board, as well as special awards each year by official partners. The fifth edition of Romanian Jewelry Week is set to take place between the 2 - 6th

Jonathan Burton appointed as CEO of Cockpit

Cockpit, London’s leading centre for contemporary craft, have announced that Jonathan Burton has been appointed as CEO. He replaces Annie Warburton, who stepped down in December 2023, and will assume his role at Cockpit in late April 2024.  Immersed in the arts throughout his career, working across opera, fine art and crafts, Jonathan has a strong understanding of craft and making. His experience and engagement in the arts and culture sector is reflected in his marketing roles at Tate and at English National Opera, his eight years as Director of the London Art Fair and six years at London Craft

The Cartier Jewellery Institute opens its doors for the 2024 European Heritage Days

Cartier Jewellery Institute Open Event 9th Arrondissement, Paris 21st - 22nd September 2024 On 21st and 22nd September 2024, the Cartier Jewellery Institute is opening its doors to the public for the third year running, honouring an exceptional event that is part of the European Heritage Days initiative supported by the French Ministry of Culture. Over 300 visitors will have the opportunity to discover Cartier’s exceptional jewellery craftsmanship and savoir-faire. In addition, for the 2024 edition of the event and for operation ‘Levez les yeux’ (Look up), created in partnership with the French Ministry of National Education, the Institute will

UK Jewellery, Silverware and Allied Crafts sector meet with MP

On Thursday the 8th February Benchpeg was privileged and honoured to attend, with 23 other senior leaders representing the UK Jewellery, Silverware and Allied Crafts sector, a roundtable discussion with meeting Sir Chris Bryant MP, Shadow Minister for the DCMS (Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport) who was on a fact finding mission to learn more about our sector. Facilitated by The National Association of Jewellers, and ably Chaired by CEO Ben Massey, the 24 seats around the table demonstrated the myriad of specialisms which the sector is made up of. Selected individuals gave presentations to Mr Bryant MP

Romanian Jewelry Week 2025

Romanian Jewelry Week 1 - 5 October 2025 Bucharest,  Romania Romanian Jewelry Week is the largest international event organized in Romania dedicated to contemporary jewelry, organized by Assamblage National Jewelry Association since 2020. The format of event includes each year a large area of exhibitions, fairs, conferences, workshops, seminars and guided tours, with one main location as well as connex locations. The Romanian Jewelry Week awards are designated by an international jury board, as well as special awards each year by official partners. The fifth edition of Romanian Jewelry Week is set to take place between the 2 - 6th

PRESS RELEASE: The Goldsmiths' Company and the Goldsmiths’ Centre call on government, industry, and educators to collaborate to revitalise the silver allied trades for future generations

Heritage Crafts has added the silver allied trades to its Red List of Endangered Crafts for the first time Heritage Crafts has added the silver allied trades to its Red List of Endangered Crafts for the first time. A 68% drop in Design & Technology GCSE entries over the past decade has contributed to a shortage of skilled workers, leaving UK businesses struggling to recruit and train craftspeople. Vital trades that support national heritage and economic identity could disappear.   The Goldsmiths’ Company and Goldsmiths’ Centre are urging government, industry, and educators to collaborate on funding, training pathways, apprenticeships, and public

Vanilla Ink The Smiddy Creates San Martín Quaich

Banff silversmithing and jewellery school, Vanilla Ink The Smiddy are delighted to announce the creation of the José de San Martín Quaich. The North East social enterprise, which opened in 2018, was commissioned by Friends of Duff House to create a gift to present to the Argentine Ambassador during the bicentennial celebrations of the South American General’s visit to Banff in 1824. San Martín, known as “the Liberator of Argentina, Chile and Peru”, is a true national hero in his home country, whose name and image stir emotions and feelings of pride. Scott McIntyre, founding Director of The Smiddy, explained:

PRESS RELEASE: The NAJ Announces Venue and Date for the 2025 NAJ Awards

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) is thrilled to announce the date and venue for the 2025 NAJ Awards, with Curteis returning as the headline sponsor. Following last year's community-focused, sold-out ceremony, the NAJ has moved to the larger, purpose-built International Convention Centre (ICC) in central Birmingham to host this year's awards evening. The 2025 NAJ Awards will take place on Thursday, October 23, and again will be supported by Curteis as the headline sponsor. This marks Curteis's third consecutive year supporting the event. Curteis is one of the UK's leading manufacturers of precious metal jewellery, supplying prominent jewellery retailers,

Q&A: Sooryia Tharayil and Hina Israr

Sooryia Tharayil and Hina Israr are the joint Founders of fine jewellery brand Zaabel. Sooryia graduated with top honours from   India’s prestigious design institute - National Institute of Fashion Technology and has previously worked with renowned design houses and Indian jewelry brands. Hina spent a decade in the investment banking and private equity sector, before an overwhelming need for creativity compelled her to begin the Zaabel journey, spurred on by a childhood fascination of the Gold Souks. Zaabel is founded on the principle that there is tangible chemistry between a woman and her jewelry; together the pair design delicate, contemporary jewellery

AUTOR International Contemporary Jewelry Fair 2019

AUTOR International Contemporary Jewelry Fair 2109 20 – 21st April 2019 National Theatre Bucharest, Romania “Beauty never sleeps” How do you evaluate the beauty of a jewelry? Should a piece of jewelry be beautiful so that we become more beautiful? What do you say? Autor Contemporary Jewelry International Fair aims at answering with 100 designers coming from four continents and bringing over 2000 pieces of jewelry. Beauty can be disruptive. AUTOR 2019 puts the spotlight on the innate relationship between jewelry and beauty. It challenges you to see beyond the limits of your regular beliefs and to express your beauty

The Other Mountain: Contemporary Jewellery from China

The Other Mountain: Contemporary Jewellery from China The National Centre for Craft & Design is a unique and ambitious gallery that seeks to exhibit the most innovative, challenging and accomplished artists practicing within the craft and design arena today. The Other Mountain showcases an innovative jewellery collection from contemporary Chinese jewellers. The exhibition title stems from the ancient Chinese art of Jade carving, with Jade carvers typically perceived as the aristocrats of Chinese jewellery making. Traditionally, Jade that was mined from one mountain had to be cut using stone from another mountain. In the same way as the Jade was cut with stone from another mountain,

Need for flexible working may underpin gender pay gap

A desire for flexible working arrangements and a reluctance to relocate for more senior roles were the reasons behind a gender pay gap in the jewellery retail industry that was higher than the national average, research has shown. Pay differentials between men and women for equal jobs ranged from 2% higher at Links of London to 91.6% lower at Pandora, where women effectively have been earning 28p for every £1 earned by a man.  But the data, collected and collated by the Government’s Gender Pay Gap Service, did not take into consideration the proportion of store employees who make up

Q&A: Vivien Johnston

Vivien Johnston is the original ethical jewellery pioneer. Trained at Glasgow School of Art, she had quickly developed a career as a commercial Jewellery Designer, reaching the position of Head Designer in the early noughties where she was placed in charge of sourcing. This led to Johnston founding the first British ethical jewellery brand, Fifi Bijoux, in 2006. Since then she has established herself as a leading light in the field of responsible sourcing of precious metals, diamonds and gemstones – an Ethical Supply Chain Specialist, who has consulted on a national and international basis for a variety of jewellery

The Other Mountain: Contemporary Jewellery from China @ Wolverhampton Art Gallery

The Other Mountain: Contemporary Jewellery from China The National Centre for Craft & Design is a unique and ambitious gallery that seeks to exhibit the most innovative, challenging and accomplished artists practicing within the craft and design arena today. The Other Mountain showcases an innovative jewellery collection from contemporary Chinese jewellers. The exhibition title stems from the ancient Chinese art of Jade carving, with Jade carvers typically perceived as the aristocrats of Chinese jewellery making. Traditionally, Jade that was mined from one mountain had to be cut using stone from another mountain. In the same way as the Jade was cut with stone from another mountain,

Courses in Jewellery or Silversmithing

Knowing where to study to embark on a career, to up-skill, or simply to persue a hobby can be a bit daunting. We've compiled a list of higher education providers, professional development opportunities for lifelong learning and international institutions... There are a number of useful organisations who might be able to provide further information about career pathways, craft, design and creativity.... Useful websites: Hotcourses www.hotcourses.com Floodlight www.floodlight.co.uk Compare different University Jewellery courses university.which.co.uk UCAS search tool ucas.com Arts Council England www.artscouncil.org.uk Crafts Council www.craftscouncil.org.uk Creative Choices ccskills.org.uk D&AD www.dandad.org Design Council www.designcouncil.org.uk NAJ: Jewellery Education & Training www.najeducation.co.uk National Careers

Jewellery Courses

Knowing where to study to embark on a career, to up-skill, or simply to persue a hobby can be a bit daunting. We've compiled a list of higher education providers, professional development opportunities for lifelong learning and international institutions... There are a number of useful organisations who might be able to provide further information about career pathways, craft, design and creativity....   Useful websites: Hotcourses www.hotcourses.com Floodlight www.floodlight.co.uk Compare different University Jewellery courses university.which.co.uk UCAS search tool ucas.com Arts Council England www.artscouncil.org.uk Crafts Council www.craftscouncil.org.uk Creative Choices ccskills.org.uk D&AD www.dandad.org Design Council www.designcouncil.org.uk NAJ: Jewellery Education & Training www.najeducation.co.uk National

Jewellery Courses

Knowing where to study to embark on a career, to up-skill, or simply to persue a hobby can be a bit daunting. We've compiled a list of higher education providers, professional development opportunities for lifelong learning and international institutions... There are a number of useful organisations who might be able to provide further information about career pathways, craft, design and creativity....   Useful websites: Hotcourses www.hotcourses.com Floodlight www.floodlight.co.uk Compare different University Jewellery courses university.which.co.uk UCAS search tool ucas.com Arts Council England www.artscouncil.org.uk Crafts Council www.craftscouncil.org.uk Creative Choices ccskills.org.uk D&AD www.dandad.org Design Council www.designcouncil.org.uk NAJ: Jewellery Education & Training www.najeducation.co.uk National

Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Council Awards 2018 Public Exhibition

Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Council Awards 2018 Public Exhibition 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. The annual Awards Exhibition showcases this year's winners from intricate hand-crafted jewellery to tableware and objet d’art – all entered as part of GC&DC’s 2018 competition. Dates 27 February - 2 March 2018 Open 10:00am – 4:00pm Venue The Goldsmiths' Company, Goldsmiths Hall, London EC2V 6BN

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 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 -

Bounded + Unlimited Contemporary Jewellery

Bounded + Unlimited Contemporary Jewellery Bounded + Unlimited  is an exhibition of exceptional precious jewellery and goldsmithing by four contemporary jewellery artists from Ireland and China. The exhibition explores the parallel working practices of these jewellery artists across design, techniques and materials, from the perspective of differing cultural contexts. The title refers to how the artists are bounded by their respective personal and national cultural experiences, yet unlimited in opportunities for communication and understanding through the traditions of their craft. The two Irish jewellery artists represented are  Eimear Conyard , manager of the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland’s Jewellery Goldsmithing

Grant Macdonald – International Silversmith

Grant Macdonald – International Silversmith Goldsmiths' Hall, London This glittering exhibition features exquisite gold and silver items of superlative design and craftsmanship from a leading London-based silversmith and represents decades of international export success and national achievement. The Goldsmiths’ Company is proud to present Grant Macdonald – International Silversmith, an exhibition celebrating five decades of elegant modern design and excellent craftmanship fuelled by the extraordinary creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of silversmith Grant Macdonald. This major exhibition brings together stunning silver and gold objects designed by Macdonald to tell the inspiring story of the exceptional British craftsmanship and innovative design that

Yorkshire Artspace Open Studios

Yorkshire Artspace Open Studios Open studios is our special, once a year opportunity for you to meet artists and makers in their studios, get geeky about tools and materials, see work in progress that is destined for national and international audiences and maybe leave with a special purchase. We are looking forward to welcoming you. We have 170 artists in our studios now and most of them will be throwing open their doors during the weekend of November 17th,18th and 19th. With that number of studios to visit you may want to curate your visit in advance using Our Artists

Oh I do like to be by the seaside!

Blazing sunshine, warm tropical breezes and a national shortage of fruity ciders on the supermarket shelves can only mean one thing...Britain has been hit with a wave of unusual summer weather! With temperatures rising to record highs, it's not just nature that is throwing it back to fonder days, old school jewellery has also made a welcome comeback for the second summer running. Last Spring, preteen jewellery of cowrie shells and pukka shell bracelets dominated the must-have list of accessories and this year, it's back - only bigger, better and juicier than ever! It appears that every designer has jumped

Carmarthen School of Art - Coleg Sir Gâr

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

Made in the Middle: Contemporary Craft from the Midlands

Featuring both recent graduates and makers with established reputations, there is a wealth of creativity on display, including ceramics, glass, jewellery, metalwork and textiles.  Selected by an expert panel through open entry, it promotes the best of contemporary craft from makers living and working in the Midlands or with a strong recent regional connection. Made in the Middle is a partnership between Craftspace  and the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum in collaboration The National Centre for Craft & Design. A recurring touring exhibition of high quality contemporary craft and applied art from the Midlands, this is the eighth exhibition in

Made London: The Design and Craft Fair - Marylebone, London

Made London - Marylebone is an annual contemporary craft and design fair where the very best of national and international designer-makers present and sell their work to the public. Over 120 exhibitors across all media (ceramics, wood, silver, gold, glass, textiles and more) showcase their original, unique and exceptional work to the capital. A friendly, relaxed, highest quality contemporary craft and design fair, where the makers themselves meet the public to discuss inspirations, design processes and future projects, enabling maker / consumer relationships. Work can be bought at the fair or commissions can be taken. One Marylebone is a stunning

Appointment: Kate Madelin to step down as NAJ's Director of Education

After a hugely successful tenure as Director of Education for the National Association of Jewellers, Kate Madelin will be leaving her role with the association in March. NAJ will now be looking for a replacement to continue to drive forward the association’s industry-leading agenda, working with the full membership, the leadership team and staff. Simon Johnson, NAJ Chairman said “ Since her appointment to NAG five years ago Kate has had a transformational impact on the Association.  During this time, she has led a forward-thinking and committed team of employees and volunteers, to deliver innovative training for the whole sector. At

Made in the Middle: Contemporary Craft from the Midlands - Coventry

Featuring 32 makers, there is a wealth of creativity on display, including ceramics, jewellery, metalwork and textiles. Promoting the best of contemporary craft from makers living and working in the Midlands, the exhibition is a great opportunity to purchase and commission work. Made in the Middle is a partnership between Craftspace and the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum in collaboration with The National Centre for Craft & Design. Made in the Middle is part of Craftspace’s 30th anniversary programme. Dates: 2 December 2016 - 19 February 2017 Venue: The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum,  Jordan Well, Coventry CV1 5QP madeinthemiddle.craftspace.co.uk

Q&A: Adam Jacobs

Adam Jacobs is joint owner of Reading's oldest independent retail jewellery shop, Jacobs the Jewellers . The business has won accolades such as Winner: UK 'Jewellery Retailer of the Year' 2015; Inspiring Independent 2015; Independent Retailer of the Year 2015; Inspiring Independent 2013; Independent Retailer of the Year 2013 and Inspiring Independent 2012. Before joining the family business Adam had worked at Head Office, Marks & Spencer Plc and then at Evidently, a boutique marketing agency in London. Adam holds a BSc (Hons) in Management from Bath University. Adam is a member of the National Association of Jewellers and is

Q&A: Dan Dower

Dan Dower is the Co-Founder and Design Director at Dower & Hall, the company he established in 1990 with wife Diane Hall. The well known independent British jewellery brand has two standalone stores in London and Glasgow, has concessions in top UK department stores and are stocked up and down the country by over 100 independent retail outlets. Dan heads up the design and bespoke element of the Dower and Hall business. A graduate of Middlesex University's Jewellery Degree course, he is a  member of the National Association of Jewellers, a Freeman of the Goldsmith Company and City of London, and

Made London 2017

Made London 2017 19 - 22 October 2017 MADE LONDON – Marylebone is an annual contemporary craft and design fair where the very best of national and international designer-makers present and sell their work to the public. Over 120 exhibitors across all media (ceramics, wood, silver, gold, glass, textiles and more) showcase their original, unique and exceptional work to the capital. One Marylebone is a stunning former church designed by Sir John Soane. With sweeping staircases, incredible chandeliers and light and spacious characterful rooms, it’s the perfect backdrop for showcasing high end craft and design. Soane Hall has incredible height, lovely ceilings and the beautiful original

Appointment: Dr Frances Parton new Deputy Curator of the Goldsmiths’ Company

The Goldsmiths Company has announced that Dr Frances Parton has been appointed as Deputy Curator in the Collections Team. Frances Parton has a long and established career in the museum and heritage sector, having most recently spent time in curatorial roles with The National Trust, English Heritage and the V&A.  She brings to the role a wealth of knowledge in decorative arts, contemporary and historic metalwork, silver and jewellery.  With a PhD and MPhil from Cambridge University, a BA from Durham University and a track record of well received publications, Frances brings an impressive breadth of knowledge and distinctive perspective

Jet Business Network Congress 2017

How do you unlock the value of staff? No business should be an island when we can share experiences to enable us to be more successful. This year’s National Association of Jewellers' Jet Business Network Congress looks at how to unlock the value of your staff. Consisting of, shaping a company’s culture to foster an engaged workforce, coaching and rewarding staff and managing inconsistent performance. The congress attracts NAJ members from all over the UK, and is open to non-members for the first time this year.  This year 6 key speakers have been handpicked to share their experiences and methodologies.

3D Printing: The Good, The Bad and The Beautiful

3D Printing: The Good, The Bad and The Beautiful In partnership with the University of Lincoln, The National Centre for Craft & Design presents a thought provoking exhibition exploring 3D printing technology. The Good, The Bad and The Beautiful, urated by Bryony Windsor, Head of Exhibitions for NCCD, in partnership with Professor Anne Chick for the University of Lincoln, celebrates innovation, poses ethical questions and considers the future of the manufacturing process. Works on display explore the innovative, political, social and environmental aspects of 3D printing. The show highlights that whilst the process is opening up new creative possibilities for makers, the

Hush Hush! The Crown Jewels London Debunked

The world-famous coronation regalia known as the ‘Crown Jewels’ are a magnificent collection of ceremonial and sacred objects of immeasurable importance and wealth, symbolising British royal power. As part of the Royal Collection, the Crown Jewels hold a rich cultural and religious significance to the British Monarchy. Stored and displayed in The Jewel House at The Tower of London since 1661, the collection of royal regalia boasting 23,578 precious jewels is still regularly used by the Queen in National ceremonies today as well as drawing in visitors from across the globe. Held by the Queen of Sovereign, the Crown Jewels

Higher Education Institutions

We've complied a list of all the national organisations offering jewellery, silversmithing or metal at HND or degree level here... West Dean  West Dean is world-renowned for its training in arts, crafts, conservation and design with campuses located in the tranquil Sussex countryside and central London’s thriving Bloomsbury district. Study industry-leading degrees and diplomas and short courses with exceptional teaching, industry connections, flexible learning options, and career support. Courses in metalwork range from making to conservation. You can expect a strong emphasis on developing good hand skills underpinned by theoretical study. Students in all programmes are encouraged to understand historic

Appointment: Scott Williams Appointed NAJ’s New Head of Membership

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) has appointed Scott Williams, previously the association’s Membership Services Officer, to fulfil the Head of Membership position. Scott will lead the Membership team based in the Birmingham office and travel across the UK to raise awareness of the association and its services. NAJ Chairman, Simon Johnson commented: “Since joining the association Scott has streamlined the administration process in the Membership department, his due diligence and sparkling personality have gone down well with members. Having excelled in his previous role, we are thrilled to offer Scott the opportunity to lead the Membership team and meet

The Other Mountain: Contemporary Jewellery from China

The Other Mountain: Contemporary Jewellery from China The National Centre for Craft & Design is a unique and ambitious gallery that seeks to exhibit the most innovative, challenging and accomplished artists practicing within the craft and design arena today. The Other Mountain showcases an innovative jewellery collection from contemporary Chinese jewellers. The exhibition title stems from the ancient Chinese art of Jade carving, with Jade carvers typically perceived as the aristocrats of Chinese jewellery making. Traditionally, Jade that was mined from one mountain had to be cut using stone from another mountain. In the same way as the Jade was cut with stone from another mountain,

Gifted 2017

National Centre for Craft and Design's successful Christmas market will return in December and kicks off an exciting programme of seasonal activities at NCCD. Following on from the success last year, they will be throwing open their doors for a two day contemporary Christmas event. During this special advent weekend the craft market 'Gifted' will host makers from across the UK selling high quality jewellery, ceramics, textiles, glass and tableware. The food market will offer a variety of local and specialist food and there will be a family focused programme of workshops, demonstrations, musicians and exhibitions. Gifted has grown into a

Our history

Just over a decade ago, the UK jewellery industry was lacking accessible information.  Organisations in the trade were keeping themselves to themselves, and it was becoming increasingly difficult to keep up with the latest developments.    In 2006 we founded Benchpeg, and launched the first digital newsletter for the jewellery industry and allied trades aimed at promoting information from across the trade and bridging the gap of information out there and accessibility to it. Today we support the jeweller by assisting with recruitment needs, sharing the latest news stories and promoting business opportunities. Our website and newsletter has a national

NEWS BRIEFING 30 January 2026

A curated edit of the week's global jewellery news - national and international - compiled for industry insight and trend monitoring. 💰 ‘India’s gold demand to fall in 2026 as jewellery slump offsets investment rise’ Sujata Rao, Jan 29, 2026, Reuters: The World Gold Council said weak jewellery buying amid soaring gold prices will cause India’s total gold demand to drop in 2026, even as investment purchases rise sharply. www.reuters.com 💰 ‘ASIA GOLD India gold premiums at decadal high; China demand undeterred by price rise’ Anirban Sen, Jan 30, 2026, Reuters: Gold premiums in India and China climbed to multi-year highs, but

Stones and Reveries: The Poetry and Minerals of Roger Caillois

Stones and Reveries: The Poetry and Minerals of Roger Caillois From 6 November 2025 to 29 March 2026  Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau, 16 bis boulevard Montmartre, Paris 9 L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, in partnership with France's Muséum national d'histoire naturelle (MNHN), presents a retrospective dedicated to the collection of the great twentieth-century French writer Roger Caillois (1913-1978) from November 6, 2025 to March 29, 2026. Driven by his insatiable curiosity, scientific precision and boundless imagination, this master of the French language collected stones with passion and erudition for over twenty-five years. Today this invaluable collection, the lion's share of which is

PRESS RELEASE: H Samuel upsizes at Victoria Centre

Victoria Centre, the East Midlands’ number one retail destination, has announced a major upsizing of one of its brand partners, H Samuel. From 24th January, the national jeweller will more than triple its store size within the Victoria Centre. The Victoria Centre location remains H Samuel’s only store in Nottingham, reinforcing the brand’s long-term commitment to the city and its retail community. The new location also introduces its latest concept, delivering a modern, experience-led environment designed to drive customer engagement and dwell time. The relocation forms part of a multi-million-pound store investment programme by parent company Signet Jewellers UK and Ireland.

NEWS BRIEFING 23 January 2026

A curated edit of the week's global jewellery news - national and international - compiled for industry insight and trend monitoring. 💰 ‘Gold, silver and platinum extend record-setting rally’ Reuters, 23 Jan 2026 Gold, silver and platinum prices reached fresh record highs as investors sought safe-haven assets amid geopolitical uncertainty. www.reuters.com 💰 Asia gold: India premiums surge to decadal high on import tax hike anxiety’ Reuters, 23 Jan 2026 Gold premiums in India jumped to their highest level in over a decade as buyers rushed to purchase jewellery. www.reuters.com 💰 ‘Goldman Sachs raises 2026-end gold price forecast to $5,400/oz’ Reuters, 22

PRESS RELEASE: F.Hinds strengthens community commitment with charity impact and continued retail investment as it marks 170 years of trading

F.Hinds, one of the UK’s longest-established family-owned jewellers, has reinforced its commitment to responsible business, community investment and long-term high-street growth following an impressive performance in 2025. Looking ahead,  2026 marks 170 years of trading  for the business, which remains under the leadership of sixth-generation members of the Hinds family. Across its retail estate, including leading outlet brand  Chapelle,  F.Hinds raised  £40,666 for charity in 2025 , demonstrating a clear, measurable commitment to ESG values and community engagement alongside commercial growth. A key focus of the year was the delivery of two national charity partnerships, both of which exceeded fundraising

NEWS BRIEFING 16 January 2026

A curated edit of the week's global jewellery news - national and international - compiled for industry insight and trend monitoring. ‘Jewellery maker Pandora hit by weak US holiday shopping’ Reuters, 9 Jan 2026 Pandora reported weaker-than-expected 2025 sales growth after subdued US holiday spending and continued pressure from high silver prices. www.reuters.com   ‘Gold Jewellery Demand Plummets 40% Amid Record Prices’ WhalesBook News, Jan 2026 Gold jewellery demand in India fell sharply in late 2025 as record prices discouraged consumers and redirected spending toward bullion. www.whalesbook.com   ‘Silver jewellery demand dips in 2025’ JewelleryNet, Nov 2025 Silver jewellery production

Jewellery Show 2026

Jewellery Show 2 - 3 September 2026 Olympia, London. Join the Jewellery Show, the UK’s premium trade event for retailers, buyers, manufacturers, designers, and suppliers of fine jewellery, taking place at the iconic exhibition venue, the National Hall.  Olympia, London  on 2 - 3 September 2026. Free to attend for trade professionals, the Jewellery Show will be an international hub for fine, luxury, silver, and contemporary designer jewellery, as well as loose precious stones and retail technology and solutions. Day 1: 09:00 - 18:00 Day 2: 09:00 - 17:00 Last entrance will be at 16:30 on 3 September (30 minutes before the show closes).  STRICTLY NO

Jewellery Show

The Jewellery Show 1-2 September 2024 Olympia, London The  Jewellery Show  will be taking place on 1 - 2 September 2024 at Olympia London. As the premium B2B trade event for jewellery trade professionals in the UK, the  Jewellery Show  will welcome over 2500 delegates  and feature  150+ national and international suppliers . Explore the newest trends in fine, luxury, silver, retail solutions and contemporary designer jewellery. This event presents a unique opportunity to elevate your business, uncover new materials, and connect with other industry professionals. Additionally, you will have the exclusive chance to be among the first to preview exquisite jewellery pieces and acquire highly sought-after products

Benevolent Society's Annual Sponsors’ Dinner

Benevolent Society's Annual Sponsors’ Dinner The Benevolent Society (charity of the British Allied Trades Federation) is delighted to offer you the opportunity to buy tickets as a member of the British Allied Trades Federation (and one of it's federated associations: the National Association of Jewellers, The Giftware Association, the British Travelgoods and Accessories Association and the Surface Engineering Association), to join us for a wonderful dinner by candlelight at Goldsmiths’ Hall on Thursday 14th June 2018 commencing at 6.30pm with a drinks reception. Tickets Thanks to the generosity of Goldsmiths' Hall and the British Allied Trades Federation, The Benevolent Society are able to reduce the potential cost of the tickets to all Federation invitees from £295 + VAT to a cost of only £95 + VAT for your first Members

Felieke Van Der Leest: Jewelrassic Park @ Mobilia Gallery

Felieke Van Der Leest: Jewelrassic Park @ Mobilia Gallery Mobilia Gallery 18th May  - 21st June 2019 "When I am working with color, I feel like a painter, When I am Working with metal, I feel like a constructor, And when I am working with toys, I feel like a child". Recently returning from China and getting ready for its United States debut at Mobilia Gallery, each Dino sculpture is wearable or has a wearable element. Editions held in the Collections of:              CODA Museum Apeldoorn, The Netherlands Stedelijk Museum Den Bosch, The Netherlands National Museum of Decorative Arts and Design,

Publications

Trade publications are a great way of knowing what's going on and who's who in industry. Here we have compiled a list of national and international trade publications and periodicals, many have their own daily, weekly or monthly e-newsletters. The UK titles are listed first... UK Attire Accessories www.attireaccessories.com Benchpeg www.benchpeg.com Gold Inspirations www.lovegold.com Harper's Bazaar www.harpersbazaar.co.uk Jewellery Focus www.jewelleryfocus.co.uk Jewellery Monthly www.jewellerymonthly.com Jewellery Outlook www.jewelleryoutlook.com Jewellery Outlook www.jewelleryoutlook.com JFW - Jewels Fashion Watches Magazine www.jfwmagazine.com JQ Magazine jewelleryquarter.net LUXWorldwide www.luxworldwide.com Making Jewellery Magazines - The GMC Group www.thegmcgroup.com Professional Jeweller www.professionaljeweller.com Retail Jeweller www.retail-jeweller.com Silver Magazine www.silvermag.com Silver Society