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Ask the Professionals, The Sorting Office

Have you ever wondered just how to get your work sold in a shop? Or maybe how you get into a Trade Fair?  What about exhibitions and craft fairs? When the competition is strong how do you stand out from the crowd, and what makes a successful application? In this event you will hear from 3 industry professionals on how to make successful applications to retail and online outlets, trade fairs, exhibitions and craft fairs. Jon Tutton - MADE Brighton MADE Brighton is an annual Design and Craft Fair held at The Corn Exchange in Brighton. The event, organised by

Christmas Fair, Farnham Maltings – Surrey

The Farnham Maltings annual Christmas Fair is full of festive charm, featuring a bustling marketplace with over 150 stands specializing in handmade gifts, unique stocking fillers, crafts, vintage, food and drink. This year’s event will be held on Wednesday 30th November & Thursday 1st December 2016. For more information please contact Caroline Pearce, Craft Co-ordinator: caroline.pearce@farnhammaltings.com Dates: Wednesday 30th & Thursday 1st December 2016 Venue: Farnham Maltings, Bridge Square, Farnham, Surrey. GU9 7QR craft.farnhammaltings.com

The Goldsmiths' Company Assay Office Celebrate Ten Years in Hatton Garden

This week the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office celebrates the tenth anniversary of its Greville Street Sub-Office in the heart of Hatton Garden. Like all good birthday parties, the celebrations kicked off with cupcakes and balloons.  Andy Waker, Manager of the Sub-Office crossed to the other side of the counter and chatted with his customers. Alex Palmer, Counter Logistics, reminisced about the past decade calling the opening of the office “the best decision the London Assay Office has ever made”.  Noting how time flies when you’re having fun, Andy recognised that the sub-office has gone from strength to strength and has become

Deputy Warden of the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office Retires

The Deputy Warden of the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office in London, Dr Robert Organ, is to retire after 21 years of service. Robert began his career at the Goldsmiths’ Company in 2000 as Superintendent Assayer of the London Assay Office, before taking over as Deputy Warden (Managing Director-equivalent) in 2006. The Goldsmiths’ Company has been responsible for guaranteeing the purity of items made of precious metals since 1300, when the hallmarking statute was passed. Commenting on his retirement, Robert said, “It has been a privilege and honour to serve as Deputy Warden. I have taken great pride in adding to

The Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office Celebrate Ten Years at Heathrow

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

Birmingham Assay Office launch optional rainbow mark

The Birmingham Assay Office has announced the launch of its special Rainbow Logo mark which has been created to be applied as an optional mark alongside the hallmark and date letter for 2020. The Rainbow Logo will be available for a limited period from the 1st July until December 2020. The mark depicts the iconic Rainbow symbol that has become synonymous during the current pandemic. The mark will be applied with the date letter “V” in combination with a statutory hallmark and can be lasered on gold, silver, platinum or palladium.  It can also be applied as a standalone logo

Millennials embrace the signet ring

The signet ring is back. But move over the traditional buyers and enter the  Millennials ; especially Millennial women who, according to the Birmingham manufacturer Domino, are currently embracing this age-old staple of the jewellery industry and making it very much their own.  B oth m en and women in their 20s and 30s are discovering and reinventing these rings.    Domino’s Marketing Co-ordinator, Chantelle Serrell-Cooke, believes that younger buyers appreciate the real opportunities that signet rings offer for personalisation, which is a key trend coming through across the market.  “This digital generation loves having the chance to make its

Richard Fox takes office in a challenging year as 'Trade' Prime Warden

The Goldsmiths’ Company is delighted to announce that Richard Fox, Managing Director of Fox Silver, has taken office as Prime Warden, in succession to Dr Timothy Schroder. With a background in silversmithing, design and business leadership, Richard has successfully created beautiful silverware for the likes of Formula One and Rolls Royce for almost four decades. His primary focus will be championing the trade of silversmiths, jewellers and allied industries during his year in office. Richard’s distiguished career as a silversmith started as an extra-curriclar activity at school, but soon became “an all-consuming passion”. After gaining a Master’s degree in design

Assay Office to host Make Your Mark once again

On the 5th February 2019, Goldsmiths’ Hall is opening its doors once again to all students, tutors,  graduates and apprentices of the jewellery and allied trades to help them make their mark in industry.  This hugely popular free one day event led by the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office and supported by the Goldsmiths’ Company, is a one stop shop to learn everything you need to know about hallmarking, manufacturing and introduce you to the support networks available to help you in your career. This includes the range of support the Goldsmiths’ Company can offer new entrants to the trade such

Diamonds Dominate at Jewellery & Watch Birmingham 2017

Leading bridal and fine jewellery companies are expected to showcase brand new collections at Jewellery & Watch Birmingham 2017 providing a platform for bridal launches in the New Year. Within the show’s new Fine & Diamond section, Domino Jewellery, Gemex, Hockley Mint and Clogau will headline 2017’s line-up of bridal brands, with new diamond designs, trends and retail solutions set to dazzle buyers.   Domino’s bestselling Sienna range will continue to inspire, with marketing co-ordinator Chantelle Serrell-Cooke stating,  “Our Sienna collection combines the latest trends with years of design expertise to provide retailers with fashion led, commercial rings. All pieces within

Edinburgh Assay Office’s CEO and Assay Master assumes international Chairman role

Scott Walter, who is the chief executive and master of the Edinburgh Assay Office will take up the role of chairman of the Convention on the Control & Marking of Articles of Precious Metals (CCMAPM) at the end of November. Mr Walter held previous roles within the Convention sitting on the Standing Technical committee and the Vision and Strategy Working group. Mr Walter has recently completed a five-year term as chairman of the International Association of Assay Offices, which culminated in its merger with the CCMAPM. The Edinburgh Assay Office has been testing and hallmarking precious metals since 1457 and is the trading arm of the Incorporation of Goldsmiths

Edinburgh Assay Office’s CEO and Assay Master assumes international Chairman role

Scott Walter, who is the chief executive and master of the Edinburgh Assay Office will take up the role of chairman of the Convention on the Control & Marking of Articles of Precious Metals (CCMAPM) at the end of November. Mr Walter held previous roles within the Convention sitting on the Standing Technical committee and the Vision and Strategy Working group. Mr Walter has recently completed a five-year term as chairman of the International Association of Assay Offices, which culminated in its merger with the CCMAPM. The Edinburgh Assay Office has been testing and hallmarking precious metals since 1457 and is the trading arm of the Incorporation of Goldsmiths

Eileen Gatt Transforms Former Black Isle Post Office Into Ethical Jewellery Centre

The small village of Munlochy, on the Black Isle, is set to be at the forefront of Scotland’s drive to become a world leader in ethical jewellery making and silversmithing. Eileen Gatt has recently given up her Edinburgh studio in order to transform the former post office, a few miles from Inverness, into a centre for ethical making and design. It’ll be a lengthy task, but thanks to a £4,000 bursary from the Incorporation of Goldsmiths of Edinburgh, plus £11,000 from Creative Scotland and £30,000 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), it’s a project she thinks has a bright future.

Corporate Meets Colour in MAYA Gemstones' 'Out of Office' Collection

MAYA Gemstones new collection puts the fun into paperwork. A homage to stationary, the collection reimagines dull desk-fodder into bright, wearable jewellery. Breaking through an abundance of autumnal rust and russet, bright neon dances and reflects shiny yellow and white gold.  Decorated with sapphires, rubies and diamonds, earrings are bent into geometric shapes, evoking the modest paperclip, or straight bars encrusted with the neon pink lead of a pencil. Bracelets etched with increments of measure glint neon on the inside and out.  Sharp use of neon juxtaposes the mundanity of the everyday objects it decorates. The youthfulness of colour evokes

Assay Office London Launch Make Your Mark 2017

Make Your Mark, the UK’s leading networking and career development event for new precious metal designers and makers, returns to Goldsmiths’ Hall in the City of London from 31 October – 1 November 2017. Now in its fourth year, the event comes complete with a treasure trove of opportunities to help emerging designers, apprentices and students of jewellery and the allied trades develop successful careers in the field. The free two-day event is open to apprentices; students on a UK-based precious-metal-related full or part-time course whether at degree level, a short adult education or privately tutored course; tutors; masters; and

British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) Board announce cuts to NAJ,Giftware Association and Head Office

The British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) has announced that measures are set to be put in place to ensure the finacial security and longevity of the trade body in the wake of Covid-19 and the resulting econonomic impact for 2021 going forward. A statement released by the NAJ from the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) Board interim CEO reads: "As I am sure all of you are aware, the recent Covid-19 crisis has had a massive impact on the economy of the UK. The government has invested billions of pounds in the Furlough scheme to help support companies and individuals through this

Showstoppers Talk: Shining silver commissions from the Sheffield Assay Office collection; the work of Junko Mori

Showstoppers Silver Centrepieces Silver is a seductive, glamorous material and the centrepiece is one of its most wondrous uses. ‘Showstoppers’ takes two iconic centrepieces from Leeds’ historic silver collection and presents them alongside contemporary masterpieces by artists Junko Mori and Miriam Hanid. The exhibition showcases the continuation and reinvention of traditional silversmithing techniques and celebrates women in silver, as makers and owners. Junko Mori Willaume & Tanqueray Miriam Hanid Thomas Pitts Events Programme Talk: Miriam Hanid Date: 9 June 2017 Time: 2.00pm – 3.00pm Tickets: £7 (inc. admission), booking required. Event: Silversmithing Demonstration Date: 10 June 2017 Time: 11.00am –

Hallmarking Figures - June 2020

The latest hallmarking figures have been released by Birmingham Assay Office. Birmingham Assay Office have released the June 2020 hallmarking figures for all four UK offices Birmingham, London, Sheffield and Edinburgh, for June 2020 vs June 2019.  The figures, which are widely regarded as a litmus test for the health of the industry, unsuprisingly show the impact of coronavirus. Figures courtesy of Birmingham Assay Office Author:  Published: 

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,

Assay Offices

By law all items sold as gold, silver, platinum or palladium in the UK must be hallmarked to confirm that they meet the legal standard of alloy proportionality for the precious metal they are being sold as. This can only be carried out by one of the four UK Assay Offices, or an Assay Office belonging to the International Convention. Here are where to find the four UK offices... Assay Office London Goldsmiths' Hall Gutter Lane London EC2V 8AQ www.thegoldsmiths.co.uk                 Birmingham Assay Office 1 Moreton Street Birmingham B1 3AX theassayoffice.co.uk    

January 2024 Hallmarking Figures

Birmingham Assay Office has compiled t he latest UK Hallmarking figures for all four offices, Birmingham, London, Sheffield and Edinburgh for January 2024 vs January 2023 .. Hallmarking figures from Birmingham, London, Sheffield and Edinburgh:  January 2024     Compiled by Birmingham Assay Office Author:  Published: 

Latest UK Hallmarking Figures: May 2022

The figures for all four assay offices - Birmingham, London, Sheffield and Edinburgh - for May 2022 vs May 2021 have been released. Birmingham Assay Office compiled the May 2022 UK Hallmarking figures.  Author:  Published: 

A third of “gold” jewellery sold online in the UK is suspected as fake, warns the British Hallmarking Council

Cuts to Trading Standards budgets and inadequate legal powers are hurting consumers and retail jewellers.  British Hallmarking Council and Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office call on the Government and internet giants to protect UK consumers by enforcing online trade A third of “gold” jewellery being sold online is suspected to be unhallmarked and therefore may be fake, raising concerns that UK consumers are being duped by internet traders, according to data released today from the British Hallmarking Council (the UK’s hallmarking body) and the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office. A 10-day internet sweep by WRi Group in partnership with INCOPRO, on behalf

Q&A: Robert Organ

Robert Organ is the Deputy Warden of the Goldsmiths’ Company’s Assay Office in London. Robert, of Welsh heritage, hails from Gwent. He gained a degree in Natural Sciences and a PhD from Emmanuel College, University of Cambridge.  He joined the Assay Office London as Superintendent Assayer in 2000, and has been responsible, over the seventeen years of his tenure, for the introduction of new technologies such as laser marking and XRF machines within the modern day assaying process, as well as the introduction of sub-assay offices. He also played an active part in the successful lobbying for the exclusion of

Angela Gillies Sees Winning Design Hallmarked In London

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

Make Your Mark Competition

Call for Applications: Make Your Mark design competition *Applications are now closed* Students are invited to Make Their Mark on the Industry - The Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office launches design competition to encourage creativity in the use of the Hallmark The Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office is launching the Make Your Mark Awards , a new design competition that aims to challenge today’s students working in precious metal. The Awards, which will open in September, will be presented at a special event on Tuesday 1 November 2016, during Make Your Mark . This year’s benchpeg Awards will also be on display, with

Appointment: Doug Henry, New CEO & Assay Master

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

Summer Open Studios 2017

The Sorting Office Summer Open Studios 2017 The Sorting Office will be opening their doors to the public once again for their annual Summer Open Studios event. Open Studios is the perfect chance for visitors to browse the vibrant studio spaces and buy an exquisite array of wares, expertly hand-crafted by local designer-makers. The 17 resident designer-makers will be on hand to welcome visitors, talk about their crafts and show off their work, while a selection of local artists and makers will also be setting up shop in our Production House for the event’s ever-popular Maker's Fair. A number of

Big Names Get Set for Make Your Mark

The Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office has announced the line-up for the first ever  Make Your Mark  Q&A Panel of Experts. “We are introducing the Panel this year in response to the huge popularity of talks at previous Make Your Mark events,”  explains Dr Robert Organ, Deputy Warden of the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office. “The success of  Make Your Mark  in 2014 and 2015 proved that there is huge demand for advice and inspiration among students wanting to set out on careers in precious metals and so this year, alongside the very popular talks by Theo Fennell and Michael Wainwright -

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

Trial of the Pyx 2017

Trial of the Pyx 2017  Since 1871, the annual Trial of the Pyx has taken place at the Hall of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths, London. The Trial of the Pyx dates back to the 12th century, making it one of the longest established judicial procedures in the country. The Trial is held annually at London’s Goldsmiths’ Hall in accordance with the Coinage Act of 1971, and is presided over by the Queen’s Remembrancer of the Royal Courts of Justice, the oldest judicial office in the UK, dating back to the twelfth century. The 2017 Trial of the Pyx will

Longer Days & Neon Gems: MAYA Gemstones extends Collections to include new Electric Neon Pieces

Last year, MAYA Gemstones released its 'Out of Office' collection . The triangle cut gems, unique to the brand, adorned cutesy stationery inspired jewellery. For summer 2020, MAYA Gemstones is expanding both this collection, and its Sonya collection to include new Electric Neon pieces.  Splashes of neon embellish stackable and mismatched paperclip earrings, quirky ruler bracelets and rings and round enamel and quartz rings with a central triangular diamond.  MAYA Gemstones' new Electric Neon Additions The bent wire 'paperclip' form of the earrings allow them to interlink with one another creating a unique drop earring in a neon rainbow, or

Advertise with Benchpeg

Benchpeg is probably the widest read UK jewellery trade website and newsletter. Established over 18 years ago, Benchpeg is written by jewellers, for jewellers; bringing together industry jobs, opportunities, news and classifieds in one place. We have a number of services to trade and industry we offer, gained from 25 years + in the sector. Request our advertising Rate Card here Recruitment, Talent Aquisition & CV Writing Services With an unrivalled industry network, spanning all areas of industry from Head Office, Design and Studio based personnel, retail sales staff to skilled crafts people at the bench in the workshop –

Elsa Peretti (1940 – 2021)

Tiffany's star jewelry designer and philanthropist Elsa Peretti dies in Spain It is with great sadness that Elsa Peretti’s death yesterday from natural causes was announced by her family office in Zurich and by the Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation. The designer, who was famous for her creations for high-end US jewelers Tiffany, passed away in a village close to Barcelona, Spain, at the age of 80. Her legacy comprises a body of exceptional design work as well as a foundation dedicated to humanitarian, environmental and conservation causes. A true citizen of the world, her absence will be strongly felt

London Diamond Bourse Announces Changes in Leadership: Joint Presidency and Historic Appointment of First Female Vice President

The London Diamond Bourse is pleased to announce significant changes within its Council of Management, aimed at ensuring the continued growth and success of the organisation. After careful consideration and unanimous approval from the committee, the following decisions were made: Joint Presidency: During last year’s annual general meeting, Mr. Alan Cohen, the current President, announced that this year would mark his final term in office. As President, Alan holds key positions within the World Federation of Diamond Bourses’ Executive Council and the World Diamond Council, among others. To allow Alan to focus on these critical responsibilities, and with unanimous support

Allum & Sidaway Dorchester revamp wins customer approval

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

Jewellery Jobs, Retail Jobs, Design Jobs, Sales Jobs, Marketing Jobs & Internships

Jewellery Jobs, Careers and Recruitment Benchpeg offers the best range of jewellery jobs in the jewellery industry for your career. Find and apply for the latest jewellery jobs and careers on benchpeg.com Benchpeg’s jewellery recruitment listings cover all areas of jobs in the jewellery trade and jewellery making jobs to make it the No. 1 resource for jewellery jobs in the UK.  About benchpeg.com/jobs The jewellery jobs listed on benchpeg.com/jobs provide opportunities for career moves in all types of jobs in the jewellery industry. From creative and jewelery design roles, to craft and jewellery manufacturing jobs, to head office, management

Make Your Mark 2019

Make Your Mark 2019 Once again Goldsmiths’ Hall will be opening its doors to all students, graduates and apprentices of the jewellery and allied trades to help you make your mark in industry. This free one day event led by The Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office will be a one stop shop to learn everything you need to know about hallmarking, manufacturing and support networks to help you in your career, alongside a packed schedule of talks and demonstrations and our Make Your Mark awards.  Exhibitor List Who to see at this year's Make Your Mark Association for Contemporary Jewellery Bellore

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

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

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

The Incorporation of Goldsmiths of the City of Edinburgh launch first Ethical Making Resource

The Incorporation of Goldsmiths of the City of Edinburgh is set to host its second Ethical Making Symposium and Workshop event entitled It's In Our Hands - One Year On . At the event in Edinburgh next week the organisation will also launch the first ever Ethical Making Resource for jewellers and silversmiths. The Incorporation is a non-profit organisation set up by Royal Charter in 1687 which operates two charities, ‘Silver of the Stars’ and ‘The Scottish Goldsmiths’ Trust’ and administers and operates the Edinburgh Assay Office. Spearheading Ethical Knowledge Last year it held a ground breaking two day event

Appointment: Anchorcert Appoints Steve Hamon as New Sales Director

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

New Technologies make for a growth industry and an emerging one

The advent of electronic mining - the process of extracting gold, silver, copper from discarded electronic objects to make jewellery - is now a growing industry. The 26 year old London based jewellery designer Eliza Walter, Founder of Lylie, is the only jeweller in the UK sourcing all the materials for her designs from ‘urban mining’. Eliza Walter has been awarded a hallmark by the Birmingham Assay Office for her efforts.  Other new technologies in mainstream use include 3D printing in jewellery schools and jewellery manufacturing companies like Weston Beamor (3D printing for jewellery has seen a 450% growth year

Artistar Jewels celebrates its sixth successful year and announces prize-winners

The sixth edition of Artistar Jewels has celebrated another successful year as the destination for the contemporary jewel from all corners of the globe. The event has grown to become a key event in the Italian fashion calendar.  Not just a showcase, but a genuine tool to champion, promote and grow jewellery businesses through tangible strategies, such as its book and e-book, commercial website and press office support for all exhibitors, it is serious about making a difference within the industry.  Over five-hundred jewels from around the world were on display, most of which were created specifically for the event. 

Make Your Mark Judge Adam Phillips Keen To View Entries

A legal requirement to sell precious metal, the hallmark needn’t simply be regarded as a required stamp to be hidden from the wearer. Adam Phillips, account manager at The Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office, London, and judge of this year’s Make Your Mark Awards, encourages makers to get creative with their hallmarking to make a real impact.   How creative can makers be with the positioning of a hallmark? "While the hallmark is regarded as the oldest form of consumer protection, it can also be used creatively as a marketing tool. Not only does it provide provenance, but it can also

Catherine Hills 'takes over' Gill Wing

Gill Wing was the first gallery to show Catherine Hill’s distinctive jewellery, as a fresh graduate from the RCA, living locally in Islington. 20 years later, the gallery is allowing a 'take over' by the jeweller to celebrate their twenty year anniversary. Over the last twenty years Catherine Hills has won many awards for her nature inspired, textural treasures, as well as being famed as the chosen designer behind the jewellery for the box-office-breaking Harry Potter films. As one of Gill Wing Jewellery's original selected artists, Catherine has remained above fleeting trends with her unique and wearable designs, the epitome

Dazzle @ Oxo 2017

From contemporary classics to brilliantly bonkers - the contemporary jewellery selling exhibition that delights in diversity returns to gallery@oxo and introduces an exceptional crop of handpicked new 2017 graduates, amongst a roll call of designer big guns.  “The oldest and largest exhibition of contemporary jewellery in Europe, and as one of the key aims is to discover and promote new talent, you can be sure of discovering fresh approaches to the medium among the thousands of pieces on display.”  -  Time Out Miniature nuns set in resin, silver dogs with wagging ears, designs inspired by office stationery, by the Australian outback,

Make Your Mark Awards 2019 Winners Announced

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

Cooksongold Mark 100th Year Anniversary with New Store Opening

Cooksongold, the UK’s largest jewellery making supplier, is celebrating 100 years of being at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter. The old shop layout In 1918 Cooksongold, established a manufacturing site and sales office on Vittoria Street, to serve both jewellery manufacturers and industrial users in the Midlands area. The business grew considerably in the early years constantly expanding its range of products and production facilities, and as a result bought the premises next door for use as production areas, stock holdings and a store. Following a series of further acquisitions the business has expanded further to form the Cooksongold

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

Scotgold Resources Ltd To Auction First Scottish Gold Rounds

On November 29 2016, Scotgold Resources Ltd will release 10 limited edition 1oz fine Scottish Gold Rounds. The Gold Rounds are made of the first pure Scottish gold mined from the Cononish Gold Mine in Tyndrum, Scotland and refined to 999.9 purity.  Scottish Gold Rounds can be bought in a sealed-bids auction with the deadline of 4pm 28th November 2016. Each Gold Round is stamped with a unique serial number corresponding to the Chain of Custody system and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from the Edinburgh Assay Office. The Gold Rounds have been minted by Baird & Co Bullion

The Little Black Book of Jewellery Terms

Ever felt like you’ve stumbled into a foreign land of unknown territory like Alice falling into wonderland whilst a constant whirlwind of name-drops and fancy words are thrown your way? Welcome to the Jewellery world! Welcome to the Benchpeg library of learning! Listen up and take note as there's a lot to be said for confidently slipping some technical babble into conversation to elevate your respect and cachet within the Jewellery world... Assay Hallmark: The hallmark and coding indicating the office which has assayed a piece of Jewellery. Baguette Cut: A gemstone which has been cut and set into a

The Benchpeg Awards 2016: Winners Announced

This week in partnership with the Make Your Mark event held at Goldsmiths’ Hall in London we held the Benchpeg Awards 2016. The event, which included a showcase exhibition, evening awards reception and awards conferment, was a culmination of months of planning, nearly 150 entries to the competition and a glittering array of prizes. Awards Showcase The event kicked off with a showcase which was open to the public, at Goldsmiths’ Hall, home of the London Assay Office, of the 19 shortlisted entries which had been selected by a panel of independent judges from 147 national entries. The Shortlist The

Weston Beamor Restructures Management Team

Weston Beamor, the Birmingham-based 3D printing, casting and bespoke manufacturing company, has restructured the workings of its Management Team and appointed new staff in a bid to grow further its customer base. Glen Day remains as Head of Business Development, but, rather than being office based as in the past, he will now spend four days a week travelling the country to meet with Weston Beamor’s customers and potential customers. Day, who reports directly to the company’s Managing Director Andrew J Morton, retains his overall, supervisory role within Weston Beamor. However he hands over greater responsibility for the day-to-day running

Goldsmiths’ Company to Stage UK’s Biggest Precious Metal Student Event

On 1 and 2 November, London’s Goldsmiths’ Hall will host the UK’s biggest careers event for apprentices and students of jewellery and allied trades. Following the huge success of the events in 2014 and 2015 the event will now be extended over two days and will deliver even more inspiration, advice and networking opportunities. Make Your Mark is a completely free tutor–student event open to apprentices, and anyone studying on a UK-based precious-metal-related course (full- or part-time) whether at degree level or on a short adult education or private tutored course. Led by the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office, and supported

RJC Hosts Its First Ever Open Day In Birmingham

Last week, the RJC held its very first Open Day  in  Birmingham.   The newly built Birmingham Assay Office located in the Jewellery Quarter, played host to the event where attendees gathered to hear more about the commercial relevance and necessity of RJC membership and certification in today’s jewellery industry. Attendees heard from a panel of industry experts that consisted of David Lewis, Managing Director of Maker Mends (RJC member since 2011);   Himesh  Pala, Managing Director of Pala Diamond Company Ltd (RJC member since 2011) and Gary  Wroe , Managing Director of Hockley Mint Ltd (RJC member since 2013). The panel

Make Your Mark - Day 1

Make Your Mark is the leading event for students on a precious metal related course. It will be held on the 1st - 2nd November 2016 at Goldsmiths' Hall, London. Who should attend? Make Your Mark  is a completely free tutor–student event open to anyone studying on a UK-based precious-metal-related course (full- or part-time), whether at degree level or on a short adult education or private tutored course. What's it all about? Led by the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office, and supported by the Goldsmiths’ Company and the Goldsmiths’ Centre, the event provides a packed programme of fascinating talks from leading figures in

Make Your Mark

Make  Your  Mark is t he leading event for students on a precious metal related course. It will be held on the 1st - 2nd November 2016 at Goldsmiths' Hall, London. Make Your Mark is a completely free tutor–student event open to anyone studying on a UK-based precious-metal-related course (full- or part-time), whether at degree level or on a short adult education or private tutored course. Led by the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office, and supported by the Goldsmiths’ Company and the Goldsmiths’ Centre, the event provides a packed programme of fascinating talks from leading figures in the trade, live demos,

Make Your Mark - Day 2

Make Your Mark is the leading event for students on a precious metal related course. It will be held on the 1st - 2nd November 2016 at Goldsmiths' Hall, London. Who should attend? Make Your Mark  is a completely free tutor–student event open to anyone studying on a UK-based precious-metal-related course (full- or part-time), whether at degree level or on a short adult education or private tutored course. What's it all about? Led by the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office, and supported by the Goldsmiths’ Company and the Goldsmiths’ Centre, the event provides a packed programme of fascinating talks from leading figures in

Awards

Every year Benchpeg holds the Benchpeg Awards. This year, we are extremely excited to announce that we are partnering with the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office London and the annual 'Make Your Mark' event to deliver the awards. As part of our ten year anniversary celebrations, the Benchpeg Awards have changed for 2016 and are now open to entry by all current students , recent graduates and new businesses . Previous awards reception at City Lit The Aim of the Benchpeg Awards The Benchpeg Awards have always been aimed at helping students and fledgling businesses, or those emerging to create a

Winchester Creative Enterprise Centre Moves Forward

The planning applications have now been submitted for a new Creative Enterprise Centre project in Winchester. The centre proposed, by Winchester City Council, will see the refurbishment of the ‘Goods Shed’ on Barfield Close to house a variety of visual artists and other, office-based creative businesses such as design and architecture practices. A new, warehouse-style building is also being considered as part of the proposal to accommodate performing arts organisations needing to rehearse, create new work or run workshops. The ambition is to provide advice and support to those organisations and individuals taking space in the Creative Enterprise Centre to

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

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Goldsmith / Bench Jeweller Charles Green Birmingham Charles Green, based in Birmingham’s famous jewellery quarter, are respected for high quality jewellery and unrivalled service. We have recently celebrated our 200 anniversary and are now operating from our new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. We are also proud members of the Responsible Jewellery Council, underlining our commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices. We are excited to announce that we are looking to add to our skilled team, with a full time vacancy for a Goldsmith / Bench Jeweller . Experience in this role is required, and you should share our passion for

Senior Jewellery Product Developer, Missoma - West London

Senior Jewellery Product Developer Missoma West London As Missoma’ s Senior Jewellery Product Developer you will be working closely with the Design, Quality Assurance, Merchandising and Operations Teams to ensure the smooth running of jewellery development against critical path. We are looking for a highly organised, and detail-oriented candidate to assist our Product Development & Quality Assurance Team with the technical support of all new jewellery development. Key Responsibilities Product Development: Maintaining and updating NPD Trackers alongside critical path in conjunction with suppliers. Support and develop supplier relationships to ensure timely sample delivery. Through conducting regular supplier calls and providing

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