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Fire and Facets

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

Makers & Tools Project

Makers & Tools Project Old Fire Station, Oxford 17 May - 15 June 2019 The  Makers & Tools  project provides makers with the space and time to take risks in their practice, to explore new ways of collaborative working and to develop skills that will contribute to the success of their careers in contemporary craft.  It provides valuable continuing professional development opportunities for makers in the SW and SE, and makes visible the process of craft to a wider public audience. The project connects six contemporary craft makers in the early stages of their careers, who undertook a non-verbal conversation

Transition

Transition , a group of recent MA postgraduates from the University for the Creative Arts in Farnham, is showcasing their latest work at the Old Fire Station Gallery, 52 Market Place, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2AG from  24 th  – 29 th  January 2019.  This exhibition, called  Transition-Henley  presents established makers who work in diverse disciplines including glass, jewellery, metal, textiles and product design. Innovative artworks express messages of ethnic unity by means of textile structures, show how the random weaving of willow can create beautiful forms and spaces, highlight the use of plant dyes in woven wool rugs, communicate the hidden distress of mental illness

Brilliance and Fire: A Biography of Diamonds

Out with the Old, In with the Bold

The slew of super-sleek and sophisticated minimalistic pieces have outshone as the go-to pieces for day-to-day wearing and red carpet soirees. Delicate, dainty and off-duty cool, the days of simple adornment has had its day. Autumn is notoriously a season of change and a perfect chance to revive, refresh and replenish your jewellery box. So it is rather fitting that a new wave of jewellery showstoppers are will be demanding the fashion spotlight. Gone are the days of intricate delicacies as it's time to welcome the big, the bold, the mismatched, the unique and your new jewellery bff's! There's no

Torch-Fired Enamel Jewelry: A Workshop in Painting with Fire

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

Jewellery & Silversmithing Tutor, Frensham Old Barn Workshop - Near Farnham, Surrey

Jewellery & Silversmithing Tutor – Join Our Creative Team!  Frensham Old Barn Workshop Near Farnham, Surrey Frensham Old Barn Workshop is on the lookout for a  talented, friendly, and passionate  Jewellery & Silversmithing Tutor to join our teaching team! If you love  making jewellery fun, engaging, and accessible , and would enjoy  sharing your skills in a creative and supportive environment , we’d love to hear from you! The Role You'll lead our  popular Saturday workshops , with the flexibility to cover other sessions at times. You'll guide participants through  introductory and intermediate-level jewellery-making projects , demonstrating techniques and ensuring

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair - Old Granada Studios, Manchester

The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair (GNCCF) is recognised as one of the leading selling events for contemporary craft in the UK, attracting over 6000 visitors to Old Granada Studios. It showcases contemporary craft to buy from over 160 selected designer-makers in: ceramics, glass, jewellery, interiors and home-wares, fashion design and fashion textiles, wood, furniture, paper, silver, metal, product design, print-making and more. Visitors can buy or commission work directly from the makers, learning about the process, inspiration, materials and stories behind the work.  The GNCCF champions contemporary craft and makers at all stages of their careers. From emerging graduates

Megan Brown Launches ‘Woven’ Collection For The Twenty-First Century Inspired By Family’s 100 Year Old Textile Mill

Megan Brown Launches ‘Woven’ Collection For The Twenty-First Century Inspired By Family’s 100 Year Old Textile Mill Megan Brown’s new collection ‘Woven’ draws together her family heritage and talent for jewellery making. Growing up in Yorkshire, with a family legacy of textile weaving going back over 100 years, inspired Megan’s lifelong love of fabrics. The new collection explores how the soft, flowing qualities of fabric might be translated into something as hard as metal. Creating sculptural designs which have been intricately woven, using fine silver and gold chain to create a dynamic collection steeped in history and tradition. Alfred Brown

Sheffield Hallam University

Sheffield Hallam University  (SHU) is a public university in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England. It is based on two sites; the City Campus is located in the city centre near Sheffield railway station, while the Collegiate Crescent Campus is about two miles away in the Broomhall Estate off Ecclesall Road in south-west Sheffield. Undergraduate: Jewellery and Metalwork – BA (Hons)           www.shu.ac.uk

Bench to Rent in Goldsmiths’ Centre Workshop

Bench to Rent in Goldsmiths’ Centre Workshop We have a bench space available to rent in our spacious studio workshop. The workshop is in the Goldsmiths’ Centre, Britton Street, London (2 minutes walk from Farringdon Station) and very close to Hatton Garden. The Goldsmiths’ Centre is a fantastic building, and workshop space is very sought after. It is a great place to meet with clients – the atrium with receptionist provides an impressive welcome into the building and it also has an onsite café. The bench to rent, includes use of workshop tools, including polishing machine & rolling mill. The

GPE announces Pandora signs lease for new store at 70/88 Oxford Street, W1

GPE has announced today that the world’s largest jewellery maker, Pandora, has signed a lease for a new concept store in London within 70/88 Oxford Street, taking the retail space to 96% let.   Pandora will occupy the prime corner unit of the Oxford Street development, located directly opposite the Tottenham Court Road Elizabeth Line exit, on Dean Street. The renowned jewellery brand has acquired space across two floors, with fantastic double-height signage immediately visible from the station exit.  The new unit will be Pandora’s third on Oxford Street, but its first one east of Oxford Circus. Pandora will join

MADE BRIGHTON at St Bartholomew’s

MADE BRIGHTON at St Bartholomew’s A Contemporary Craft and Design Christmas Shopping Fair Whilst still showing the best makers in the country, the MADE BRIGHTON - St Bartholomew’s fair will be a down to earth ‘Village Hall’ one day, table-top selling event. Using the main body of this stunning church to show the handmade work of sixty makers; jewellery, knitwear, ceramics, wood, print, silversmithing, textiles, clothes, toys and more, with a full range of prices to ensure there is something for everyone. St Bartholomew’s Church is just a 5-minute walk from Brighton Station. The church is a stunning late Victorian

Gold and enamel miniatures stolen from Devon Guild of Craftsmen

An Art Thief has struck in Bovey Tracey, snatching a precious gold and enamel miniature picture ‘of unusually high value’ in broad daylight. Police are seeking information about a significant theft from the Jubilee Gallery at the Devon Guild of Craftsmen in Bovey Tracey. The popular educational charity and visitor attraction was targeted for an exhibition that contained a small number of unusually high value items. Police have issued a statement saying: ‘On 5 April 2018 a burglary occurred at Devon Guild of Craftsman, Station Road, Bovey Tracey.   An unknown person has stolen a piece of art that is shown

Give the Gift of Time

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

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,

Scarlett Fever Never Looked So Chic

This season we see the flaming tones of red revolutionised, refined and steeped in grown-up elegance as designers release signature collections infused with spirit, passion, lust and romance. Scarlett, ruby, maroon, crimson; if there's one colour to be seen in this season, it's red. Not a new fixture to the jewellery realms, red has famously brought a touch of mischief and fire to many a collections for years. With this voraciously bold colour sizzling in ever-increasing popularity for the party season, slipping into something saturated in red is a serious win-win fashion situation. Notoriously associated with strong, confident self-assured individuals,

Flame Off 2019

Flame Off 2019 31 May - 2 June 2019 Uttoxeter Racecourse, Staffordshire Over the last seven years we have brought hundreds of glass beadmakers together in 2 halls over one weekend to play with glass and fire (sounds like a safety officers nightmare!) Ever wondered how some of the top artists work things like fine stringers? or what their encasing techniques are? Upstairs in the top hall we have the best worldwide lamp work artists demonstrating infront of cameras which seats 150 people, those images are beamed onto large high definition screens making it very easy to watch

Ardent 2017

Ardent Jewellery Selling Exhibition From the wonder of the earth and sky to the ravages of fire and war, Ardent is an exhibition of handmade jewellery fuelled by the passions of its creators. Ardent is presented by five recent graduates from Vannetta Seecharran School of Jewellery. Driven by their love of designing and making jewellery with a message, since completing their course and exhibiting at New Designers, their work has been exhibited at Craft Central, Made London, Artistar Jewels in Milan and Joya Madrid and has attracted critical attention from Oh Comely magazine to The Times. Unique and dramatic, their

Delicate Delights for November Nights

If there ever was a time of year to go big, bold and all things beautiful, the season of sugar and spice and all things nice most definitely hits the mark! As invitations of Christmas nights of festive fun and mischief begin to flock your inbox, it's time to add a bejewelled touch of delicate glitz, glamour and charm! As the winter nights grow colder and daylight hours go to bed far too early, it's our job to inject the sizzling heat and fire of festive finery with a treasure trove of flamboyant sparkle and delightfully delicate statement jewels, guaranteed

Amethyst Crush for February Birth Babies

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

Handmade Chelsea - The Contemporary Craft And Design Fair 2019

Handmade Chelsea - The Contemporary Craft and Design Fair Friday 8 - Sunday 10 November 2019 Chelsea Old Town Hall, London Exciting new additions to Handmade Chelsea this year include on stage exhibitor demonstrations and a dedicated Christmas area, in addition to collections showcased in a range of disciplines by over 100 exhibitors at Chelsea Old Town Hall. Handmade in Britain announces the 13th edition of Handmade Chelsea with a celebration of contemporary craft and design at iconic London venue Chelsea Old Town Hall and style retail destination, King’s Road London. Handmade Chelsea offers the opportunity to discover, commission and

Auction For Aid

Over 70 Of The Uk’s Hottest Jewellery Designers Unite For “Auction For Aid” Supporting Help Refugees and Moas (Migrant Offshore Aid Station) A Facebook auction of British Contemporary Jewellery "Auction For Aid", spearheaded by Leeds based jeweller Ghazal Ghahri-Saremi, of Soremi Jewellery is taking place online, on Facebook, from Monday September 18th to Sunday September 24th.  Auction For Aid will feature over 205 donated works from supporting jewellers such as Polly Wales, Jo Hayes Ward, Ruth Tomlinson, Shimmel Madden and Disa Allsop.   This year the auction, has gone international, receiving support from European and US jewellers who also feel the injustice of

Handmade Oxford 2023

Handmade in Chelsea 2023 Chelsea Old Town Hall, London 10 – 12 November 2023 Handmade in Britain is delighted to return to Chelsea Old Town Hall from Friday 10 – Sunday 12 November 2023 for the 16th Edition of its flagship contemporary craft and design fair, Handmade Chelsea. Taking place in the form of a dual model, both in-person and online to increase the accessibility of British craft and expand our reach. Visitors across the world can do their Christmas shopping either in-person or remotely from the comfort of their homes whilst discovering beautiful contemporary handmade products.  “Great to support

News Briefing: 6 April 2025

A curated edit of this week's national and international jewellery news... Maisons and schools that are preserving age-old jewellery and watchmaking techniques Charlene Co, 2 April 2025 for Prestige Online: In the rarefied space of Métiers d’Art watchmaking and high jewellery, centuries-old decorative techniques are preserved and brought to life. From Vacheron Constantin and Piaget to Cartier and L’École School of Jewellery Arts, these are the maisons and schools that have committed themselves to honouring these traditions. www.prestigeonline.com The glittering world of Jacques Cartier’s jewellery empire – by his great-granddaughter Francesca Cartier Brickell, 1 April 2025 for the Telegraph: Francesca

Graduate Fashion Week 2020

Graduate Fashion Week 2020 31st May – 3rd June 2020 The Old Truman Brewery, East London Graduate Fashion Week, now in its 29th year, continues to showcase the latest emerging talent to the world, by exhibiting the fashion innovators of tomorrow with an exciting four-day event located in the heart of London’s buzzing creative district, Shoreditch.  On the 31st May – 3rd June 2020 at The Old Truman Brewery in East London, Graduate Fashion Week will present an unrivalled platform for over 3600+ new BA fashion talent, promoting and awarding the freshest upcoming trendsetters in design, creative direction, marketing, communication, photography, illustration

Diamond Setter, L'Atelier de Pino Spitaler - London W1

Diamond Setter  L'Atelier de Pino Spitaleri Old Bond Street, London “It’s only when the client and the artisan are brought together that legacies are created. Iconic, personal creations that carry a sense of emotion and beauty across generations" - Pino Spitaleri L'Atelier de Pino Spitaleri is now seeking a skilled Diamond Setter for its atelier on Old Bond Street, London to join our expert team dedicated to crafting exquisite jewellery pieces. In this role, you will leverage your precision and artistry to set diamonds and other gemstones with exceptional care and attention to detail, ensuring the highest standards of quality and

The London Artisan 2019

Call for Applications: The London Artisan 19 & 20 October 2019 Old Truman Brewery, London 'The best place to meet and buy unique products from Designer Makers' The London Artisan is a curated marketplace in the heart of East London. Taking place on a quarterly basis throughout the year, this Spring we bring 60 contemporary designer makers to Old Truman Brewery for a two-day shopping event like no other. The London Artisan offers a diverse, quality, shopping experience that celebrates independent producers and makers. But more than that, it’s about people and place; meeting the makers, conversation with friends and

The London Artisan July 2019

The London Artisan 20 & 21 July 2019 Old Truman Brewery, London “ The best fair in London to buy direct from Designer Makers ” The London Artisan is a curated marketplace in the heart of East London. Taking place on a quarterly basis throughout the year, we bring 60 contemporary designer makers to Old Truman Brewery for a two-day design event. The London Artisan offers a diverse, quality, shopping experience that celebrates independent producers and makers and is a must for those passionate about handmade, organic and sustainable goods. What can I expect? The London Artisan presents a unique selection

Celestial Ring launched by W&W Jewellery

W&W Jewellery have taken inspiration from antique jewellery and atomic post-war design to create a strikingly beautiful piece that is out-of-this-world to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing. The ‘Celestial Ring’ which interweaves historical and cosmic influences, combines a vintage jewellery aesthetic, upcycled old cut diamonds and a contemporary geometric design concept. Digitally designed and made in platinum the ring incorporates a unique double orbit shank below the star burst set with old cut diamonds, black diamonds and pale blue sapphires. The sculptural black star draws the focus into the heart of the ring and is black

Handmade in Britain 17: The Contemporary Craft & Design Fair

HANDMADE IN BRITAIN: The Contemporary Craft & Design Fair Handmade in Britain 17: The Contemporary Craft & Design Fair, is our annual Christmas shopping event at the beautiful Chelsea Old Town Hall. Over three days, the event will celebrate the best in high-end design and craftsmanship from 100+ highly skilled, UK-based designer-makers. Don’t miss this fabulously festive event, taking place Friday 10 – Sunday 12 November 2017. Dates Friday 10 - Sunday 12 November 2017 Venue Chelsea Old Town Hall, London www.handmadeinbritain.co.uk

Cluster London’s 2024 Contemporary Jewellery Art Fair

Cluster London’s 2024 Contemporary Jewellery Art Fair A Showcase To Discover Unique Emerging Elegance Wednesday, 20th March to Saturday, 23rd March Chelsea Old Town Hall, London The Cluster Jewellery Art Fair, London’s premier showcase of contemporary jewellery, invites you to the 4th edition of this glittering celebration at the iconic Chelsea Old Town Hall on King's Road. Join us for an unforgettable experience, where creativity and elegance converge.  Whether you're a seasoned collector, a fashion enthusiast, or simply captivated by the allure of jewellery,  the Cluster Jewellery Art Fair promises to be a feast for the senses. From  Wednesday, 20th March to Saturday,

First King Charles III submitted for testing at the Trial of the Pyx

Landmark year as the first King Charles III coins and the largest coin in The Royal Mint’s history are submitted for testing at the Trial of the Pyx The Royal Mint has today submitted nearly 10,000 coins for testing at the UK’s oldest judicial ceremony, the Trial of the Pyx, held at Goldsmiths’ Hall in the City of London. The 700-year-old ceremony aims to protects consumers by upholding the quality of the nation’s coinage through rigorous testing – as important today as it was at the first recorded public trial in 1248. The process ensures that the coins produced by

Handmade Chelsea

Handmade Chelsea - The Contemporary Craft & Design Fair Returns, Handmade in Britain Now in its 14th year, Handmade Chelsea - The Contemporary Craft & Desing Fair returns to London's Chelsea Old Town Hall from 12 - 14 November to celebrate the very best of British craft. Featuring over 75 of the most exciting international and UK-based designer makers who work across a wide range of disciplines – from glass and ceramics, jewellery and fashion, prints and textiles, to sculpture and wood - Handmade Chelsea is a unique opportunity to shop for exquisite craft under one roof.  This year, as

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

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

Footfall at Bradley’s Jewellers York Up 50% as Outdoor Floral Display Excels

Historic York boutique creates Instagram-worthy display that’s driving custom and increasing footfall despite challenging retail landscape.  Independent jewellery retail business, Bradley’s Jewellers York, has witnessed a 50% uptick in footfall since April 2021 thanks to a new approach to exterior store decoration and window displays. The business is reporting a doubling of footfall from April to September 2021 in comparison to the same period in 2019 due to investment in spring and autumn themed floral displays that surround its 500-year-old boutique on Low Petergate in the centre of York. Since installing its debut exterior decorations in April 2021, designed to

PAN Amsterdam 2025

PAN Amsterdam 2 - 9 November 2025 Amsterdam RAI, Hall 8, Europaplein, 1078 GZ Amsterdam 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

Rare 10th Century Saxon Gold Ring Found by Metal Detectorist in a Field in West Sussex Expected To Fetch Up To £12,000 in Auction at Noonans

Rare 10th Century Saxon Gold Ring Found by Metal Detectorist in a Field in West Sussex Expected To Fetch Up To £12,000 in Auction at Noonans A rare 10th century Saxon gold and enamel ring found in a field on Father’s Day (2021) in West Sussex is expected to fetch up to £12,000 when it is offered at Noonans Mayfair in a sale of Jewellery, Watches, silver, and objects of vertu on Tuesday, November 28, 2023. It was on Father’s Day (June 20, 2021), that Peter told his nine-year-old daughter Maya that he would “bring home gold today” and he

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

PAN Amsterdam

PAN Amsterdam 24 November - 1 December 2024 Netherlands PAN Amsterdam, the Netherland's leading fair in art, antiques and design. Every year, more than 45,000 art lovers are inspired and tempted by the many thousands of works of art on show. Whether your interest lies in classical antiquity, old masters, photography, contemporary art, antiques, designer furniture or decorative objects, PAN is the perfect place to compare art, gather information and make surprising discoveries. Each object is vetted by independent experts for quality, authenticity and condition before the fair opens, giving you the assurance so you can buy with confidence. For more information

Benchpeg goes all chatty

As part of lockdown, we thought we'd have a call with an old friend, Fei Liu. The world is slightly different these days, and keeping in touch is all important. We called Fei Liu, Creative Director and Founder of Fei Liu, for one of our regular catch ups, but this time we recorded it to share. Fei and Benchpeg's Rebecca first met back in 1998, in fact, they were the first classmates to meet on the Jewellery and Silversmithing BA Hons course at Birmingham's School of Jewellery. The best of friends, Fei was the bride's gentleman (as the Vicar called [youtube

Goldsmiths’ Fair 2020 - Online

Goldsmiths’ Fair 2020 - Online 24 September – 6 October 2020 Online Only Register for the event The Goldsmiths' Company is excited to launch  Goldsmiths’ Fair 2020 , the first ever digital staging of their prestigious event, held exclusively online from Thursday 24 September to Tuesday 6 October, on the newly designed and curated website launching the same day.  They are proud to be able to provide a platform for our exhibitors and thousands of visitors from around the world, old and new, so that you can enjoy the extraordinary works created by some of the best jewellers and silversmiths

Spring into Colour

With what feels like most of the world working from home these days, many of us are going to have a lot more time on our hands. More time stuck indoors in our pyjamas may well be disastrous for the old waistline but does give plenty of opportunities to swat up on the spring runway jewellery trends! Between clothing, accessories, furniture and makeup trends, Spring's jewellery trends are by far the most fun and adventures to play with. As new collections are released every week, we're seeing designers forgo the single-use of gold and silver for an explosion of colour

News Edit:2 November 2024

A curated edit of this week's national and international jewellery news... Jeweller draws inspiration from Dartmoor for her unique creations The Moorlaner reports: Dartmoor’s mystique inspires local jeweller’s craft. www.themoorlander.co.uk Forever sparkling: jewellery shop is launching collection to honour The Goldsmiths Company Islington Now reports: A Jewellery shop in Exmouth Market is launching a collection in early November to honour a seven-century-old jewellery company established by King Edward I. islingtonnow.co.uk Blake Lively Brought Dramatic Diamonds to the 2024 CFDA Awards Natural Diamonds reports: Blake Lively has made a habit out of glistening in Lorraine Schwartz diamonds throughout the years. www.naturaldiamonds.com

Homage to Earth: Hidden Treasures by Teresa Seabra

During one of her last visits to India, Teresa Seabra met an old man who had been collecting wonderful dendritic agates since his childhood. He then confided her with great sadness, that none of his successors cared about his treasure. She so decided to take some of them, working with these mysterious stones by combining them with others, with tiny Basra pearls and rough little diamonds writes Ilaria Ruggiero. Necklace: Hidden Treasures I, 2016 Oxidized silver, dendritic agates and crystal rock Necklace: Hidden Treasures II, 2016 Gold, dendritic agates and amber Agate is the name given to numerous varieties of banded Chalcedony,

Glass with a world inside: Jewellery by Mio Toyoda

Glass Tradition in Japan is very old and the first glass in Japan is found among archaeological remains dating to the Yayoi period (3rd century B.C. to 3rd century A.D.). Over the centuries and up until the Edo period (1603-1867), glass of any kind was considered a luxury to be enjoyed by society's upper class. In addition to the European imports, much of Japanese early knowledge and technology in regard to glassmaking was derived from China writes Ilaria Ruggiero. While the western influence was strong, the Japanese style in glass retained its identity and spirit. During the 19th century, glassmaking took

Handmade in Chelsea 2024

Handmade in Chelsea 2024 Chelsea Old Town Hall, London 6 - 9 November 2024 “ Handmade Chelsea show is one of a kind. A fantastic setting in such a busy and popular location in London, attracting buyers for all different craft disciplines. Its long and well established reputation draws in repeat customers every year as well as attracting new visitors. As a maker who has exhibited for 16 years, it is fabulous and friendly show to take part in, a highlight of my working calendar. ” – Annie Ruthven-Taggart, Exhibitor 2023 We are pleased to announce that the 17th edition

Benchpeg turns 18!

Unbelievably ( to us )  t his February, the 6th to be exact, Benchpeg turned 18. Benchpeg was formed back in 2006, in an environment where the jewellery, silver and allied trades faced myriad challenges such as fragmentation and lack of interconnectivity and when digital media was in its infancy. Yes, we’re that old. We hope that we have helped address some of those issues over the last 18 years. We couldn't have made it this far down the road without our fantastic community of jewellers, retailers, makers, silversmiths, educators, those at the bench and those in the background, the

Craft Central Announces Wind Up

Craft Central, formerly known as the Clerkenwell Green Association announced this week that very sadly it has no choice but to wind up its operations and close the 54 year old charity. With its origins and former home at Pennybank Chambers, Clerkenwell, the organisation was spread across two buildings close to Farringdon and home to an array of designer makers, crafts people and allied trades. From 1970 to 2017 the organisation ran affordable workshop spaces, open studio events and had exhibition space providing a route to market for the sale of works. Because of its location, practically over the road

Desire Jewellery and Silversmithing Fair @ Chelsea 2020

Desire at Chelsea 2020 Chelsea Old Town Hall, London 28 February - 1 March 2020 This stunning mixed media jewellery and silversmithing event where visitors can purchase direct from contemporary designer makers selected from the best in the UK is an event not to be missed. Desire offers visitors a choice of around 90 individual jewellers and silversmiths who have been selected for their superb and innovative craftsmanship and have a genuine passion for the work they create.  Visitors can see and purchase from an exciting range from both emerging British talent as well as more established designer makers.  Exhibitors

Heavy Metal Charm

This winter kicks it back to the classic glamour of old-school rock n'rollwith heavy metal and lashings of sparkle.  Lustrous metallics, holographic fabrics, oil slick colour-play and shimmers of glitter will transform the way your winter wardrobe makes a statement this season. With designers jumping on this trend left right and centre, be ready to snap up some chunky cuffs, double layered chokers, rich jewel gemstones and colour metal mixes guarenteed to turn a head or two. We've scoured the jewellery collections and picked out our favourtite bike chain necklaces, mixed metal bracelets and clever metal magic to take your

Selvedge Fair - Charleston, East Sussex

The team behind the cult magazine Selvedge bring a curated collection of fifty merchants and makers to Charleston, East Sussex. The exhibitors sell a range of rare vintage fabrics, covetable haberdashery and skilfully handmade textile treasures. The fair offers the perfect opportunity to meet makers, catch up with old friends and find that special something. The fair will take place in a marquee and barns in the grounds of the former home of the Bloomsbury Group. Charleston opened its doors to the public in 1986, 70 years after Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant moved in. This house, with its renowned

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

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

'Tis the season for gift giving

Scratching your head on what to get your mother, sister, friend or lover this Christmas? A little package dressed up with tassels, bows and frills will cause that sought-after thrill for sure - and that's before they see something extra special and sparkly nestled inside! The old adage 'Diamonds are a girl's best friend' may still ring true for many, but here at BenchPeg, we'd argue that bold and colourful gemstones, weighty chains and eccentric designs are just as desirable for that jewellery lover in your life. We all know that there is a keep-forever piece out there for just about

Orkney Jewellery Designer Re-Creates Rare Pictish Necklace

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

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

Marcia Lanyon going going... almost gone

One of the UK’s industry’s leading figures Marcia Lanyon might be winding down her much loved business but customers have no reason to worry about being left in the lurch, she says. The 69 year-old gemmologist, who is one of the leading suppliers to jewellery designers and makers in the UK, announced her retirement last week having carved out an unrivalled reputation for sourcing precious stones from all corners of the planet. Over a period of 40 years, she has built up an enviable mailing list of around 7,000 clients but says none will be left high and dry when

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

Fair-trade jewellers get together at London Fashion week to show that fashion can be fair

This coming Monday and Tuesday marks a pivotal moment in London Fashion week history: for the first time ever, four of the leading ethical jewellers will come together to prove that fair fashion, without comprimise, can be (and should be) achieved.  From an exclusive location in Old Bond Street, adjecent to the main-catwalk, the four renowned designers will showcase their collections to celebrities, industry experts and the public alike. This, coming after the BOF State of Fashion report prophecised that ''For fashion players, 2019 will be a year of awakening. The ones who will succeed will have to come to

Selvedge Fair - Pendle Heritage Centre 2017

The team behind the cult magazine Selvedge bring a curated collection of fifty merchants and makers to Burnley The exhibitors sell a range of rare vintage fabrics, covetable haberdashery and skilfully handmade textile treasures. The fair offers the perfect opportunity to meet makers, catch up with old friends and find that special something. The fair will take place at the  Pendle Heritage Centre , located in Park Hill which is an ancient textile settlement that goes back to medieval time. The centre, dedicated to studying and promoting this local heritage, is a former farmhouse built in the 17th century which also has

Sara Peymanpour makes Wolf & Badger debut

Newly launched luxury jewellery designer brand Sara Peymanpour London, whose collections are inspired by Sara’s Persian heritage, will be stocked by concept store Wolf & Badger in London, New York City and online from August 2018. The eponymous, responsibly sourced Sara Peymanpour London brand launched in June at Couture London, a showcase invitation-only event for designer brands on Old Bond Street. “Wolf & Badger are very selective and only stock designers with a distinctive style, so this is a great start for my brand,” Sara said. “I am particularly pleased because it is very unusual for Wolf & Badger to

TRUE - Bettina Speckner

TRUE - Bettina Speckner Gallery S O is pleased to present a new body of work by leading contemporary jeweller Bettina Speckner. The exhibition comprises work made from different photographic techniques, including photo-etchings on zinc, Tintypes and Alutypes. The photo-etching on zinc plates technique comes from an old printing process, the Heliogravure. Bettina Speckner selects pictures which convey a sense of timelessness, mostly using photos taken by herself and occasionally found ones. The Tintype (Ferrotype) was invented in the US at the end of the 19th century, after the Daguerreotype. The technique is also called (wet-plate collodium photography). It is

The London Artisan July 2017

The London Artisan The London Artisan is a curated marketplace in the heart of East London. We offer a platform for Designer Makers to promote and sell their work to new audiences. We support makers who produce high quality, unique and locally made products within the following categories:  Textiles & Homeware / Illustration & Print / Ceramics & Glassware / Jewellery & Accessories / product design / Traditional Crafts / Creams & Oils / food & drink Times 10am - 5pm Dates 22 & 23 July 2017 Venue Old Truman Brewery, off Brick Lane, London, E1 www.thelondonartisan.com

A new verge for Westminster Abbey

Ottewill Silversmiths and Jewellers Ltd proudly watched as the new verge manufactured for Westminster Abbey was used for the first time on Tuesday by the Dean’s Verger, Martin Castledine. The special service, to celebrate the 750 th  Anniversary of the re-building of the Abbey, was attended by Her Majesty The Queen. The commission by Westminster Abbey following a tender process overseen by The Goldsmiths’ Company, stipulated that the piece had to be made by an apprentice. Our 5 year apprentice, 21 year old William Sullivan, relished the challenge and it was hand made to an exceptional standard in our Ashford

West Dean College Open Days 2017

West Dean College Open Day Programme You are invited to come and explore the workshops and studios, take a tour with students, explore your study options and find out about funding at our next Open Day. Friday 1 December 2017, 10am - 1pm Programme School of Arts - Location Edward James Studios 10.00  Registration and Open Studios 10.30-11.00  Informal presentation in the Old Dairy Seminar Room : Welcome and Introduction - Francine Norris, Director of Education Outline Visual Arts Programmes - David Stent, Programme Leader, Visual Arts Outline MA Creative Writing and Publishing - Martine McDonagh Outline Part Time Visual

WB The Creative Jewellery boss extols 'right fit' Heimerle & Meule deal

The acquisition of Birmingham-based WB The Creative Jewellery Group by German group Heimerle & Meule represents an ‘absolutely right fit’ according to managing director Andrew Morton and will give added security for the futures of around 180 staff. Andrew Morton - WB The Creative Group Managing Director The process of selling WB The Creative Jewellery Group, which owns Domino, Gecko and Weston Beamor to the 173 year-old Heimerle & Meule, one of Europe’s largest precious metal suppliers, started in 2016 when owners Viv and Patrick Fuller decided the time had come to think about retiring. It had been established by

Selvedge Fair - Charleston

Selvedge Fair - Charleston The team behind the cult magazine Selvedge brings a curated collection of fifty merchants and makers to Charleston. Our exhibitors sell a range of rare vintage fabrics, covetable haberdashery and skillfully handmade textile treasures. The fair offers the perfect opportunity to meet makers, catch up with old friends, and pick up that special something. The fair will take place in a marquee and barns in the grounds of the former home of the Bloomsbury Group. Charleston opened its doors to the public in 1986, 70 years after Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant moved in. This house,

Selvedge Fair - London

The team behind the cult magazine Selvedge bring a curated collection of fifty merchants and makers to Mary Ward House , London. The exhibitors sell a range of rare vintage fabrics, covetable haberdashery and skilfully handmade textile treasures. The fair offers the perfect opportunity to meet makers, catch up with old friends and find that special something. A Grade 1 listed building, the Mary Ward House is a result of Passmore Edwards’ 19th century philanthropy. Mary Ward gave the inspiration  behind this centre for training, care  and entertainment, designed for  society’s less fortunate. Each room has its own ambience; the

Ring 2017, Diana Porter Contemporary Jewellery

This spring, Diana Porter Contemporary jewellery have asked a selection of their current designers, as well as some old favourites and some brand-new ones, to submit their most exclusive wedding / engagement ring combinations. They wanted an inspiring exhibition showcasing a plethora of talent and craftsmanship! Several designers have submited bespoke pairings, created especially for the exhibition, whilst others will premier pieces from their new collections. Diana Porter will launch her latest creations in precious metals set with unique stones, for an exclusive first look. Alongside Diana Porter, this exhibition will feature pieces by: Hannah Bedford, Justin Duance, Maria Frantzi,

British Craft Trade Fair 2017

The British Craft Trade Fairs (BCTF) are three-day events taking place at the Great Yorkshire Showground in beautiful Harrogate, the Fair will take place on 2ndth-4th April 2017. BCTFS’ first fair in London took place on the 11 to 13 September 2016 at the Old Truman Brewery in Brick lane. The next London fair will take place on 10th – 12th September 2017. The fairs are strictly trade-only and showcase work from exclusively British and Irish makers. BCTF differs from other trade fairs in that no mass-manufactured products or products made overseas are allowed. Visitors can be confident, therefore, that they will

Annual World Gunmaker’s Evening 2017

Guns on Pegs hosts The 5 Annual World Gunmaker’s Evening Celebrating the leading examples of craftwork from across the globe On the 18 May, 2017, shooting enthusiasts have the opportunity to gather in Central London for a night dedicated to the best the worldwide gun trade has to offer. Located at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower in Knightsbridge, the finest examples of gunmaking from all over the world join forces to retail their latest wares, mingle with clients old and new over a glass of wine, and celebrate the shooting community. “People come purely to make a purchase which obviously is

Desire Jewellery and Silversmithing Fair 2017

Chelsea Old Town Hall will be the venue for the superb Desire Fair from 3 - 5 March.   This stunning mixed media jewellery and silversmithing event where visitors can purchase direct from contemporary designer makers selected from the best in the UK is an event not to be missed. Desire offers visitors a choice of around 90 individual jewellers and silversmiths who have been selected for their superb and innovative craftsmanship and have a genuine passion for the work they create.  Visitors can see and purchase from an exciting range from both emerging British talent as well as more established

Trend Tease: Keeping It Cool with Fan-studded Finery

Step outside the box of everyday monotamy for a night of shimmying and swaying in old-deco glitz and allure with something a little etherial, exotic and fanning from afar. The hand fan is a classic artefact that originates far back into prehistoric times, first being a device of practicality in keeping its' wearer cool and keeping fires bright and live with oxygen. As time progressed these very same fans transformed into decorative and ornamental pieces that many carried as an artistic symbolism of class. Embellished representations of these hand fans originate back to the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans and later

Hypnotic Crystal Lips: Where Jewellery Meets Beauty

Striking gemstones have been setting hearts all aflutter as they dazzle, glitter and shine round the necks, wrists and dainty fingers of models strutting the fall runways. Nothing quite beats the majestical beauty and subtlety of semi-precious crystal stone jewellery that never fails to capture the magpie eyes of the jewellery world. The enchanting light refractions that encompass the delicacy of the gemstone spectrum have been entwined into a new and bewitching creative innovation where the wearing of coloured stone just got magnetising. Capture the passion for coloured stones by painting a new twist upon this old tradition by taking