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Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust

Calling All Talented & Aspiring Craftspeople & Makers! Scholarship & Apprenticeship Funding Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust QEST Scholarships Scholarship funding takes many forms, from traditional college courses to vocational training, one-to-one training with a master-craftsman, or a series of short courses you put together yourself. Grants of up to £18,000 QEST’s mission is to support excellence in British craft. We do that by providing craftspeople with education and training grants of up to £18,000. We support advanced skill development in craftspeople who aim to become masters of their craft. QEST Apprenticeships QEST Apprenticeships offer salary support for craftspeople who have

The Flaming Pearl Queen of Conch

Prized for her rarity and creamy unique shimmer, this freshwater gemstone is hailed as The Flaming Pink Pearl Queen of the exotic sea. Whilst many have come across its sister counterparts, freshwater pearls as well as Mikimoto, pink conch pearls remain to be amongst some of the most desirable and rarest form of naturally-occuring organic gemstones. Found within the depths of the Caribbean ocean off the coast of North America, this beautifully spiral shaped snail shell inhabits from Florida down into the waters of the West Indies. The conch shell belongs to a genus family called the Gastropod as it

The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST)

Call for Applications: Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust  We are delighted to announce that the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust will be accepting new applications for funding between 11 January and 15 February 2021. T alented and aspiring candidates can apply for up to £18,000 to further their education through traditional college courses, vocational training, apprenticeships or one-to-one training with master craftsmen. For further details and to apply please visit  www.qest.org.uk .  Deadline for applications is 5pm, 15 February 2021.

Jewellery Designers meet Queen at London Fashion Week

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

The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST)

Call for Applications QEST Scholarship Applications Next application round is open 14 July - 24 August 2020 The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) awards scholarship and apprenticeship funding of up to £18,000 to talented and aspiring craftspeople working in a broad range of skills, from farriery and cheese maturing to jewellery design, silversmithing and sculpture.   QEST was established to help support craftspeople of all ages and from all backgrounds, at a critical stage in their careers and thus sustain traditional British craftsmanship. The charitable arm of the Royal Warrant Holders Association, QEST was established in 1990 to celebrate the 150th

Not Just For The Queen: Girl With The Pearls

Not only for the ladies who lunch at Selfridges on a Tuesday, pearls are irrefutably the emerging trend to reign supreme on the fashion runways this fall. Not one to take no for an answer, the pearly presence has always remained in low-level limelight behind the scenes but it seems the time has come to breath a fresh wave of innovative air into the timeless ocean-bread adornment. Long gone are the days of prim, poised and proper with the return of the pearl showcasing new generation inspired design through larger than life iridescent balls married amongst chunky military jackets, sports

The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) 2021

Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust 2021 We are delighted to announce that the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust will be accepting new applications for funding between 12 July and 16 August 2021. Talented and aspiring candidates can apply for up to £18,000 to further their education through traditional college courses, vocational training, apprenticeships or one-to-one training with master craftsmen. The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust ( QEST ) awards scholarship and apprenticeship funding of up to £18,000 to talented and aspiring craftspeople working in a broad range of traditional and contemporary skills, from farriery and thatching to jewellery design, glassblowing and millinery. Our next application

Jewellers Recognised in Queen’s Birthday Honours

In a tradition which dates back to 1860 when Queen Victoria gave out the first Birthday Honours, a total of 1,057 people have been recognised in this year’s Queen's Birthday Honours list including two well known figures in industry. From left to right, clockwise: Nicholas Wainwright, Stuart Laing, Pippa Pearce, Vanessa Swann and Sam Fanaroff. The Queen's Birthday honours lists recognise the achievements and service of people across the UK who have undertaken outstanding work in their communities. ​This year members of the jewellery, craft and metalwork industries were recognised with the Order of the British Empire. Sam Fanaroff, Founder of the Sussex Guild for

Merci Maman Awarded Prestigious Queen's Award for Enterprise

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

Fit for a Queen: Arabel Lebrusan unveils the Crown Collection

Arabel Lebrusan's designs are thoughtfuly crafted to stand the test of time, just like the bonds they commemorate.  The new Crown Collection is a showcase of elegantly crafted women’s rings in beautiful diadem, coronet, tiara and wishbone shapes, all set with ethically sourced diamonds. The pieces are designed to make thoughtful milestone gifts, whether it be a wedding, anniversary, or celebrating the birth of a child. The Crown Collection’s versatile and delicate design allows each individual piece to either stand alone or form part of a unique collected of ‘stacker’ rings,  Designer Arabel Lebrusan says: “The Crown Collection is a feminine

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

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

National competition for Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Emblem

Call for Applications: Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Emblem A national competition to design the official emblem for Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022 launched this week. The competition – run by the V&A, in conjunction with Buckingham Palace – is open to young people between 13 and 25 from all over the United Kingdom.  Aspiring artists and designers will have the opportunity to submit an original design for an emblem to signify Her Majesty’s historic, seventy-year reign, and capture the spirit of the national festivities. Symbolising the very first Platinum Jubilee, the emblem will feature prominently

News Edit: 18 September 2022

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Queen Elizabeth II's ten most famous and memorable jewels The Jewellery Editor: As we share our memories of the late Queen Elizabeth II, which ten jewels from crowns to tiaras and brooches are most closely connected to her reign? www.thejewelleryeditor.com Queen Consort Camilla wore this jewellery piece in honour of the late Queen Elizabeth II Marie Claire: As the world continues to mourn Queen Elizabeth II, members of her family are paying tribute to her in many different ways, including wearing items that meant a lot to her.

News Edit: 11 September 2022

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   The Queen's most meaningful jewellery Good Housekeeping: We look back at the personal and historical significance of 12 pieces of jewellery worn and loved by Queen Elizabeth II. www.goodhousekeeping.com Queen Elizabeth: Royals could inherit her jewellery collection of tiaras, brooches & more Express: Queen Elizabeth Ii has died at the age of 96. Throughout her reign, the royal was known for her impressive jewellery collection. www.express.co.uk Calls Grow for Return of Crown Jewels to India, Africa After Queen's Death NewsWeek: People in Africa and India have called for

News Edit: 12 February 2023

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Jewels in Camilla’s Crown Will Not Include Famed Diamond Claimed by India NY Times: For the coronation of King Charles III and the queen consort, she will wear a century-old crown that does not include the storied Koh-i-Noor diamond, taken from India under British rule. www.nytimes.com Queen Camilla will wear Queen Mary's crown to Coronation but controversial jewel removed Daily Express: Camilla, Queen Consort, will wear Queen Mary's crown for King Charles's Coronation in May. www.express.co.uk Queen Mary’s Crown is removed from display at the Tower of London

QEST Scholarship Applications

Call for Applications QEST Scholarship Applications The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) funds the education of talented and aspiring craftspeople through traditional college courses, apprenticeships or one-on-one training with masters QEST was established to help support craftspeople of all ages and from all backgrounds, at a critical stage in their careers and thus sustain traditional British craftsmanship. The charitable arm of the Royal Warrant Holders Association, QEST was established in 1990 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Association and the 90th birthday of Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother. Since then the Charity has awarded over £3.5 million to 442

Call for Applications QEST Scholarship Applications

Call for Applications QEST Scholarship Applications The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) funds the education of talented and aspiring craftspeople through traditional college courses, apprenticeships or one-on-one training with masters QEST was established to help support craftspeople of all ages and from all backgrounds, at a critical stage in their careers and thus sustain traditional British craftsmanship. The charitable arm of the Royal Warrant Holders Association, QEST was established in 1990 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Association and the 90th birthday of Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother. Since then the Charity has awarded over £3.5 million to 442

News Edit: 27 March 2022

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Royal Mint releases largest ever platinum coin for Queen's jubilee Mining Weekly: The UK Royal Mint has unveiled its largest ever platinum coin, with a diameter of 150 mm and weighing 2 kg, to coincide with the year of Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee. www.miningweekly.com Meet the jeweller using age-old methods to honour the dead and keep Jewellery Quarter traditions alive Birmingham Mail: Makers in Birmingham have been encapsulating loved ones' hair and ashes in jewellery for centuries and Jo Herriotts is sticking to the old techniques. www.birminghammail.co.uk The

Treasures of Gold and Silver Wire

Treasures of Gold and Silver Wire 30 September - 12 November 2023 Guildhall Art Gallery, Basinghall Street, City of London EC2V 5AE Dazzling display of robes, uniforms, costumes, and jewellery provides “feast for the senses” at Guildhall Art Gallery exhibition A piece of the only surviving dress worn by Queen Elizabeth I, Charles Dickens’ court suit, an RSC robe worn by David Tennant as Richard II, and the Coronation glove of Queen Elizabeth II are among the highlights at a major exhibition at the City of London Corporation’s Guildhall Art Gallery. Featuring over 200 items dating from the Middle Ages

Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair

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

News Edit: 5 May 2023

A round up of this week's national and international jewellery news...   The priceless jewellery Queen Camilla may wear to the Coronation The Telegraph: From the Coronation necklace to the Queen Consort's ring, many invaluable pieces will be on display at Westminster Abbey. www.telegraph.co.uk From mine to Met Gala: The story behind Michaela Coel's Ghanaian gold Harpers Bazaar: Challenged to create a suite of jewels for the co-host of this year’s event, Ghanaian-British designer Emefa Cole chose fully traceable single mine origin gold to celebrate their shared heritage. www.harpersbazaar.com The Best Jewellery Moments From The 2023 Met Gala Vogue: Amidst

News Edit: 5 June 2022

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Queen wears new Platinum Jubilee brooch Daily Mail: Her Majesty, 96, looked effortlessly elegant in a jade green Stuart Pravin crepe coat when attending the lighting of the beacons event at Windsor Castle. www.dailymail.co.uk Platinum Jubilee: The Queen’s Brooches, New and Old Royal Central: Symbolism abounds this week during the Platinum Jubilee. The jewellery on display is no exception and no one does messaging through jewels better than the Queen herself. For Trooping the Colour, a … royalcentral.co.uk Kate Middleton Wore Princess Diana's Sapphire and Diamond Earrings to

Toye Kenning & Spencer secure £1M funding

The Midlands Engine Investment Fund Debt Finance, managed by Maven Capital Partners, has provided Toye Kenning & Spencer Limited, the oldest continuously operating company in Birmingham, with a £1 million loan to invest in equipment, improve facilities and support growth of the business. Established in 1685, Toye manufactures a range of medals, regalia, bespoke jewellery, badges, including coloured ribbons, braids and laces, used in the production of ceremonial uniforms and gowns. The firm has held a Royal Warrant to the British Royal Family without interruption since the reign of Queen Victoria to the current monarch Queen Elizabeth the II. Toye

Hush Hush! The Crown Jewels London Debunked

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

Magical Farnese blue diamond expected to fetch £5m

A spectacular blue diamond which was gifted to a Spanish queen in 1715 is to go on sale for the first time ever next month with an anticipated price tag of around £5 million. Until recently, no one knew of its existence since the 6.16 -carat 'Farnese Blue', crafted for Elisabeth Farnese, Queen of Spain (1692-1766) was seen  only by close relatives though since those relatives spanned four royal families across France, Spain, Italy and Austria over a period of 300 years, it is astonishing the diamond has been kept under wraps so successfully. It was found in the Golconda

Meghan’s bridal jewellery is borrowed, old, new and blue

Arriving at the church, St George's Chapel, Windsor, in a contemporary wedding gown with bateau neckline made of double bonded silk cady designed by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy, and a five meter long veil made from silk tulle with a trim of 53 hand-embroidered flowers in silk threads and organza representing the 53 countries of the Commonwealth, the bridal jewellery would have to be special. Tiara Loaned by the Queen, Meghan wore a rarely seen tiara known as the Queen Mary diamond bandeau tiara, which was previously owned by the Queen’s own grandmother and was last worn by Princess

Jewellery Trade Christmas Party - London WC2

Jewellery Trade Christmas Party 2016 Presman Mastermelt are hosting a Jewellery Trade Christmas Party on the 14th December, at SWAY Bar, Great Queen Street, Holborn, all in support of the Silversmith and Jewellers Charity. Tickets cost just £25.00, which includes a donation to the Charity, live music, DJ, entertainment, food and even a Christmas gift! Date: Wednesday 14th December Times: 7pm till Late Venue: Sway Bar, 61-65 Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5BZ Tickets: Cost £25.00 each To find out more about the Silversmiths and Jewellers Charity, please click here tsjc.org.uk Tickets are selling fast, so If you would like

New York Fashion Week: The RCA Graduates of 2016

Cunard’s historic Queen Mary 2 arrived into New York early last week for the dawn of New York Fashion Week. Following a successful seven-night voyage with fashion royalty also on board such as Dame Zandra Rhodes CBE, Colin McDowell MBE, Fern Mallis and Gail Sackloff OBE, treated to a host of runway shows, glamorous dinners and exclusive unveilings were integrated in the fashion package! Amongst the brewing excitement of New York Fashion week, the stunning creations from graduates of the Royal College of Art were also showcased and admired on board of the Queen Mary 2 with the key RCA

Good night Ma’am. God be with you in excelsis

The passing of a loved one can be emotional, upsetting, all consuming. It can feel like, for a short while, that the World itself stops revolving - and that you are suspended in time and space - whilst you contemplate a world and future without that person in it. Sometimes, this might be a frightening prospect, where there is no clear path to tread. And then you realise that although this devastating event has impacted you tremendously, that the World continues to turn, and that life carries on, bustling around you. Queen Elizabeth II herself said, “ Grief is the

Call for Applications: Emerging Maker Grants

QEST Emerging Maker Grants The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) offers Emerging Maker Grants of up to £10,000 for the training and education of talented craftspeople at an early stage in their career. An overview What does an emerging maker grant support? The Emerging Maker Grant is a new funding opportunity for talented early-career craftspeople. The grant provides funding of up to £10,000 to committed makers who have been practising professionally for four years or less and who have a strong connection to materials, technical skills and processes. The funding specifically supports training and education programs to help makers enhance

BATF announces winner Jubilee silverware competition

BATF are delighted to announce Tim Lukes of Lukes & Co as the winner of its silverware competition to commemorate Her Majesty The Queen's Platinum Jubilee in June 2022. Launching the competition last December, the BATF invited submissions from UK-based designers and silversmiths based on the theme of ‘plant a tree for the Jubilee’. The BATF received a wonderful variety of pieces, and the judging panel remarked about the high-quality of entries. BATF President Andrew Hinds, from Jewellers F Hinds, commented on the first ever selected CAD rendered submission, “A beautifully presented submission which enables the judge to visualise the

News Edit: 10 November 2023

A round up of this week's national and international jewellery news...   The best jewels from the autumn collections The Times: Form an orderly queue, please, for this season’s striped treasures, says Jessica Diamond. www.thetimes.co.uk Boucheron Acquires High Jewellery Workshop Near Place Vendôme GJEPC: Boucheron has recently acquired a high jewellery workshop, renowned for its excellent expertise in traditional craftsmanship as part of its ongoing growth and development strategy. gjepc.org From the coronation to the state opening of parliament, how do jewellery designers use the royals to inspire their craftsmanship? Tatler: As the King and Queen make their annual visit

News Edit: 12 March 2023

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Celebrate the women in your life this International Women’s Day with jewellery designed with sustainability and social impact in mind Big Issue: Quazi Design is a vendor available on the Big Issue shop, which sources ethical and socially conscious products for all your needs. www.bigissue.com Jewels linked to Winston Churchill and Princess Diana to be sold for £125,000 Daily Express: A golden necklace that has links to the Duke of Wellington, Queen Victoria, Sir Winston Churchill and Diana, Princess of Wales is to be made available for sale

The BATF Platinum Jubilee Competition 2022

Call fro Entries: The BATF Platinum Jubilee Competition 2022 The British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) is commissioning a piece of silverware, to add to its collection, to commemorate Her Majesty the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in June 2022. The BATF, which represents around 2,500 members – predominantly small businesses designing, manufacturing and supplying jewellery, silverware and giftware – owns an unrivalled collection of silverware, built up since 1954. It was started in order to celebrate the traditions of craftsmanship for which our industry is famous, when technological advances threatened the continuation of skills passed down through generations. The Platinum Jubilee competition, with

The Platinum Jubilee Commission

The Platinum Jubilee Commission Application Calling All Silversmiths To mark the year of Her Majesty The Queen's Platinum Jubilee, The Incorporation of Goldsmiths of the City of Edinburgh seek to commission a contemporary piece of Silverware for the table. The chosen piece of Silverware will become part of The Incorporation of Goldsmiths permanent collection. The Scottish Goldsmiths Trust are delighted to have been asked to assist The Incorporation in selecting a silversmith for the commission. The only stipulation of the design brief is that the commission must incorporate a prominent Edinburgh Assay Office feature hallmark, which must include The Queen’s

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

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

QEST Apprenticeships

QEST Apprenticeships The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) offers apprenticeship funding of up to £12,000 over three years (up to a maximum of £6000 per year) for the training and education of aspiring craftspeople. We provide these opportunities to maintain vital skills in traditional and contemporary crafts and advance the quality of craftsmanship in the United Kingdom. Applications are now open and will close on Monday 12 February 5 pm. To apply for a QEST Apprenticeship please register via the form below. To support applicants in preparing their application for our Spring funding round, we held an online zoom session 

QEST Scholarships

QEST Scholarships The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) offers Scholarships of up to £18,000 for the training and education of talented craftspeople. We want to sustain vital skills in traditional and contemporary crafts and contribute to excellence in the British craft industry. Applications are now open and will close on Monday 12 February at 5 pm. To apply for a QEST Scholarship please register via the form below. To support applicants in preparing their application for our Spring funding round, we held an online zoom session on Friday 19 January from 1-2pm. If you wish to access a copy of

QEST Emerging Maker Grants

QEST Emerging Maker Grants The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) offers Emerging Maker Grants of up to £10,000 for the training and education of talented craftspeople at an early stage in their career. Applications are now open and will close on Monday 12 February at 5 pm. To apply for a QEST Emerging Maker Grant please register via the form below. To support applicants in preparing their application for our Spring funding round, we held an online zoom session  on Monday 15 January from 1-2pm.  If you wish to access a copy of the recording, please email  info@qest.org.uk What does

V&A unveils refurbished Raphael Court ahead of reopening

The V&A had unveiled a first look at the newly refurbished Raphael Court – home to the Raphael Cartoons – following a landmark renovation in 2020 to mark the 500th anniversary of Raphael’s death. Together with a new interpretive approach, the refreshed gallery will transform the way museum visitors experience the Cartoons, lent to the V&A from the Royal Collection by Her Majesty The Queen. The gallery will reopen to the public for the first time when the V&A reopens on 19 May 2021. The Raphael Cartoons are among the greatest treasures of the Renaissance in the UK. Shortly after his

News Edit: 12 June 2022

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   New faces and promotions at Roseberys, Bonhams and Freeman's - Antiques Trade Gazette Antiques Trade Gazette: The Goldsmiths' Company has appointed its 695th prime warden. Lord Mark Bridges succeeds Dame Lynne Brindley. Former private solicitor to the ... www.antiquestradegazette.com Platinum Jubilee: The Queen’s Brooches, New and Old Royal Central: Symbolism abounds this week during the Platinum Jubilee. The jewellery on display is no exception and no one does messaging through jewels better than the Queen herself. royalcentral.co.uk The Queen’s Jewellery: Platinum Jubilee Brooch Crown Chronicles: As part of

News Edit: 10 September 2023

A round up of this week's national and international jewellery news...   From Meghan Markle To Serena Williams, How Shiffon’s Tennis Ring Became An A-List Favourite Vogue: There’s no doubt that jewellery has the power to send a strong message, from the Princess of Wales wearing heirloom pieces that belonged to Queen Elizabeth II, to outspoken environmentalist Emma Watson opting for lab-grown diamonds. www.vogue.co.uk How did a 150-year-old jewellery brand become a pioneer in social and ethical responsibility? Shanya Amarasuriya shares The Honeycombers: Meet Shanya Amarasuriya, the creative force behind B.P. de Silva Jewellers, a 150-year-old family business that's not

QEST Scholar Exhibition at Fortnum & Mason

‘The Art of the Exceptional, a Jubilee Celebration of Makers’  14th March – 19th June Third Floor, Fortnum & Mason To mark the anniversary of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, Fortnum & Mason have partnered with the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) to host four exhibitions in the heart of their flagship store in Piccadilly. From March to June, the exhibitions will celebrate the best of British creativity, crafts and making, and conclude with the creation of a one-off Jubilee hamper of artisan products made over the four months. The exhibition series ‘The Art of the Exceptional, a Jubilee Celebration of Makers’

Sustainability Award

Heritage Crafts and the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST) have teamed up to create a new QEST/Heritage Crafts Sustainability Award, with a £2,000 prize, open to any craftsperson or micro-business, working with traditional craft skills or materials, who has improved their environmental sustainability within the last 12 months. Crafts are often thought to provide an environmentally-friendly alternative to mass-production. This can be true, with items produced using locally-sourced materials and hand-production methods that may have less impact on the environment. Campaigns like  ‘Buy Less, Buy Better, Buy Handmade’  have promoted handmade objects which are built to last, in comparison with

New Heritage Crafts / QEST Sustainability Award

New Heritage Crafts / QEST Sustainability Award Heritage Crafts and the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust - QEST have teamed up to create a new Sustainability Award, with a £2,000 prize, open to any craftsperson or micro-business, working with traditional craft skills or materials, who has improved their environmental sustainability within the last 12 months. Crafts are often thought to provide an environmentally-friendly alternative to mass-production. This can be true, with items produced using locally-sourced materials and hand-production methods that may have less impact on the environment. However, there are still areas that can be improved, such as with energy-intensive crafts

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

News Edit: 25 November 2018

A round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Harumi collaborates with Goossens on the ultimate jewellery as 'wearable sculpture' The Telegraph: People tend to assume that jewellery designer Harumi Klossowska de Rola started off as a sculptor, but then moved to jewellery. www.telegraph.co.uk Marie Antoinette's pendant sells for £25m in jewellery auction Sky News: Jewellery belonging to France's most famous queen has fetched millions of pounds at auction in Geneva. news.sky.com Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle are backing this major jewellery trend Marie Claire: ICYMI, Prince Charles celebrated his 70th birthday last night, with a super fancy party

News Edit: 25 May 2019

A round up of this week's international jewellery news...   The Jewelry on Game of Thrones Offers Clues to the Season 8 Finale Town and Country: T&C’s experts weigh in on the women of Westeros and their not-so-subtle accessories. townandcountrymag.com The Best 'Game of Thrones' Jewellery To Make You Look Like The True Queen Of The 7 Kingdoms Bustle: Winter is here and the end is nigh. Season 8 of Game of Thrones has really split fans so far but very soon it will all be... bustle.com Coining it in: the rise of numismatic jewellery FT: Real money may have

Call To The Wild - Gill Wing Jewellery

Call To The Wild Gill Wing Jewellery, London 4th July to 26th August Gill Wing jewellery has explored the globe to bring you a summer show of tropical treasures. Adorn yourself in our new selection of the most exciting jewellery from home grown and exotic designers. With a Zoological theme amidst lush foliage, expect experimental materials along with precious metals and rainbow gems for a wild jewellery adventure. Our carefully curated selection of new pieces from Emmeline Hastings, Jessica Pass, Samantha Queen, John Moore, Sian Evans, Tessa Metcalfe, Jessica Briggs, Nikki Coupee, Melanie Tomlinson, Raluca Buzura, Alena Willroth, Blanka Sperkova,

News Edit: 4 November 2018

A round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Alexander McQueen's favourite jeweller Shaun Leane turns his hand to buildings The Telegraph: Shaun Leane has never quite toed the line when it comes to what we expect of a fine jeweller. It was Leane who created the major pieces that came to define... www.telegraph.co.uk Why Heinz Mayer is the chosen supplier to the Jeweller of Her Majesty, The Queen of England First Classe: The independent German jeweller has been the steadfast supplier to the official jewellers of the palace for decades despite being a small company of only approximately

Miss World China crowned with Fei Liu's glorious £11 million masterpiece

Fei Liu's magnificent Blue of Dreams tiara, worth £11 million and featuring a stunning 88 carat sapphire, was placed ceremoniously on the head of Chinese beauty queen Guan Siyu last week when she won the Miss World China 2017 pageant in Dalian, China. The Fei Liu Fine Jewellery founder collaborated with the New Silkroutes Group Ltd to create his amazing  masterpiece and took a full 9 months to complete it - in a painstaking process of design and intricate craftsmanship. Look closely and you will see the majestic 88ct Sri Lanka blue sapphire set in platinum, six high-grade over sapphires,

Call for Applications Emerging Designer-Maker Pavilion Living Crafts 2018

Call for Applications: Living Crafts 2018 Applications are now open for Living Crafts 2018 at Hatfield House 10 - 13 May 2018 Living Crafts brings beautifully crafted designs chosen for their high quality and innovation. More than just a craft show, this is creative day out for all the family with hundreds of designer-makers, masterclasses, workshops and spectacular craft demonstrations. The event takes place in matted pavilions on the Queen Elizabeth Oak Showground, in the magnificent parkland at Hatfield House and admission includes entry to the West Gardens. Featuring the best of contemporary and traditional craft from jewellery-making, ceramics, studio

Stars 'rock' up at royal wedding

All eyes were on the glamorous outfits yet the fiery brilliance of the rocks hanging off fingers, necks and ears at Meghan Markle's wedding to Prince Harry was more than a match for the day's dazzling sunshine. As well as the bride's own jewels, namely the pair of Cartier 18-carat diamond earrings, the £100,000 10.11 carat bracelet (with over 150 individual diamonds) and the gorgeous diamond and platinum Queen Mary Tiara, there were diamonds and pearls galore among the 600 guests, many of them designed by celebrity jeweller Lorraine Schwartz who since 2002, when Halle Berry first wore her diamond-fringed

News Edit 20 May 2018

A round up of this week's international jewellery news... Meghan Markle Wore The Most Beautiful Tiara With Her Wedding Dress Elle: Although—no lie—we were waiting with baited breath to see Meghan Markle step out in her wedding dress at Windsor Castle, we have also been waiting for the other big reveal of the night: her tiara. www.elle.com.au A close-up look at Meghan Markle’s wedding jewellery The Telegraph: An old pair of Cartier earrings, a new bracelet (also by Cartier), a borrowed tiara from the Queen's collection and, as part of her evening look, a blue cocktail ring that belonged to

Victoria and Albert’s spectacular collection of Royal jewels go on show

The Victoria Revealed exhibition at Kensington Palace will reopen this month, with a glittering suite of gems specially commissioned for Victoria by her beloved Albert set to join the display at her childhood home. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert are famed - even among royal collectors - for their love of fine craftsmanship, together commissioning and purchasing some of the nineteenth century’s finest artworks, porcelains and objects d’art to fill their homes. Among the most personal of these treasures were the spectacular gifts the couple exchanged, from the moment of their engagement in 1839 and throughout their 21-year marriage.  Now,

VIA Arts Prize 2018

Call for Applications: VIA Arts Prize 2018 Artists are invited to enter into a “Dialogue” with Ibero-American arts and culture for this year’s VIA Arts Prize 2018. The call for entries opens on Wednesday 6 June 2018 and closes on Monday 22 October  The VIA Arts Prize, held annually at the Embassy of Brazil to the UK, in partnership with ACALASP (the Association of Cultural Attachés of Latin America, Spain and Portugal), People’s Palace Projects from Queen Mary University of London, and sponsored by Itaú, is pleased to now open the call for entries for this year’s prize. Following on

Diamonds Are Forever

Happy birthday month to all you April babies out there! With Spring in full swing and summer fashion trends ready to ring-a-ding-ding, the diamond dazzles as queen bee in this months gemstone spotlight! Owing to their superior robust structure, remarkable luster and beautiful crystal lattice patterns reflecting and refracting light spectrums, the diamond sparkles with a hidden beauty of intrigue and desirable finery. Diamonds are not only a notoriously ancient coveted treasure of the wealthy elite but it is highly loved many  gemmologosts  for being one of the only gemstones made entirely from one element- carbon. Owing to its isometric

Spring Fair 2017, NEC Birmingham

Spring Fair is the UK’s No.1 trade show for gift and home, welcoming more than 60,000 visitors through the doors of Birmingham NEC, over the course of 5 days. Connecting people and products for 40 years, Spring Fair attracts a purchase power of £2.4 billion, making it a must-do for over 2,500 exhibitors with must-have items and a must-see for buyers across independents, multiples, e-Commerce and more. Officially opened by the Queen at the NEC in 1976, Spring Fair has a history of high standards. Dates : 5 - 9 February 2017 Open: Sun 5 February  - 9:00 - 18:00

Lady In Red: Ruby Passion

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

News Edit: 25 September 2022

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   How Delfina Delettrez Fendi Created Fendi’s First-Ever High-Jewelry Line Vanity Fair: Born into fashion royalty, the fourth-generation designer debuts the first haute joaillerie line for the Italian house bearing her name. www.vanityfair.com Her Majesty's personal crown jewels Daily Mail: From her favourite pearls and £40,000 diamond brooch to sapphires from the President of Brazil for her coronation - and the 3 carat engagement ring from Philip she never removed. www.dailymail.co.uk The Most Dazzling Jewellery Moments From Each Decade Of The Queen’s Reign Vogue: Throughout her reign, the Queen

News Edit: 21 March 2021

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Diana Porter: Tributes paid to Bristol jewellery designer BBC: Tributes have been paid to influential designer Diana Porter following her death on Sunday, aged 78. bbc.co.uk Tributes paid to Diana Porter, British jewellery queen Bristol Post: From setting up in her front room in Bristol to becoming the most renowned jewellery designer in Britain. bristolpost.co.uk In memoriam: Elsa Peretti (1940 – 2021) Wallpaper: Elsa Peretti, the designer known for her jewellery designs for Tiffany & Co, has died age 80. wallpaper.com Legendary Jewellery Designer, Model & Philanthropist Elsa

News Edit: 9 October 2022

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   King Charles III's coronation to feature jewels worth £3.5 billion Cambridge News: The most expensive crown jewels were recently seen placed on top of the Queen's coffin. www.cambridge-news.co.uk Step Inside Chanel’s New Paris Flagship Designed by Peter Marino Galerie Magazine: The Place Vendôme space debuts with a celestial high-jewelry collection inspired by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel’s archival designs. galeriemagazine.com Gigi And Naomi Celebrate Messika’s “Empowering” Paris Fashion Week Runway Show Vogue: The Parisian house’s latest high jewellery collection heralds the return of body jewellery. www.vogue.co.uk Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's bridal

News Edit: 10th January 2021

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Culture Of Time The Waldorf-Astoria's Iconic Clock, A Gift From Queen Victoria, Is Ready To Run Again Hodinkee: A year-long restoration lets this horological jewel in the crown shine like new. hodinkee.com ‘Who Doesn’t Love a Diamond?’ NY Times: The author of ‘The Lost Jewels’ talks about a trove of hidden gems, walking tours of London and Samuel Pepys. www.nytimes.com Diamanti Per Tutti extends travel retail footprint in partnership with DFS Moodies: Belgian jewellery and diamond specialist Diamanti Per Tutti (DPT) has opened its first travel retail-dedicated boutique,

News Edit: 14 April 2019

A round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Tributes paid to talented Newton Mearns jeweller who had proud royal connection Barrhead News: An East Renfrewshire jeweller who designed pieces for the Queen has died at the age of 69. barrheadnews.com Jeweller unveils world´s largest square emerald cut diamond Daily Mail: A London-based luxury jeweller has unveiled what is said to be the world’s largest square emerald cut diamond. dailymail.co.uk Jeweller unveils world’s largest square emerald cut diamond BT: The Graff Lesedi La Rona was cut and polished from the second-largest rough diamond ever found. home.bt.com De Grisogono Salutes