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What's In A Face: Jewellery With A Personality

It's an unusual trend that's been circulating amongst fashion bloggers for some time now without any indication of slowing down. So the jewellery trend in question, becoming a permanent fixture upon our instagram feeds is the usual and obscure outline of faces. Discreet? No. Chic? Yes, yes, yes! It's hard not to be drawn to the artistic, abstract and boldly creative shapes and patterns of this trend. With oversized facial features, blurred uneven lines and imperfect placement of embellishment, the more obscure the design, the better! From earrings, rings to pendants, the fun face trend takes its inspiration from the

Jewels on the Pink Carpet- Who wore what to the 2019 Met Gala

The first Monday of May brought with it the illustrious and captivating Met Gala. The fashion world is still dealing with the fallout. We've collated some of the best jewellery looks of the occassion.  The theme this year was camp, explored in more detail in the complimentary exhibition staged by the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum 'Camp: Notes on Fashion'. The exhibition explores how the sensibility, once marginalised, has now become a leading and important part of contemporary mainstream culture.  “Camp’s disruptive nature and subversion of modern aesthetic values has often been trivialized, but this exhibition reveals that it

Winter Jewels

Winter Jewels 2024 Free entry to the exhibition 27 November – 5 January 2025 We are pleased to welcome back the ACJ (Association for Contemporary Jewellery) Wessex group of local jewellers for their 12th annual Christmas selling exhibition at the Gardens. Come and meet the talented jewellers in person and see what new designs have been created in their individual studios throughout the year. Their popular prize draw will be returning too, with the opportunity to win £100 to spend on jewellery at the exhibition. 27 November – 5 January 2025, 10am – 4pm* Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Jermyns Lane

Haunting Jewels of Winter

The mischievous weekends of chills, shrills, thrills and kills is nearly upon us and what better way to make a heart-stopping entrance than in a killer display of demure-soldering jewels? Those with their prowling fingers hot on the fashion pulse will have already seen the winter collections unfurling designs dripping in dramatic sensualism, extravagant grandeur and bold bodacious looks to kill. Keeping this mysterious trend on the side of sultry romanticism rather than gothic doom and gloom, look for single statement pieces encrusted with eye-catching rich jewels, flirty accents of charm, extravagant baroque accents and multi-layered chains of mixed metals

Phillips Presents ‘Jewels Now’ a solo exhibition featuring Lauren Adriana

International auction house Phillips will be hosting ‘ Lauren Adriana, Jewels Now ’, a landmark exhibition tagged as ' A Radical Reimagining of the Future of Jewels ' taking place in New York and London. Lauren Adriana creates unique, bold, abstract jewels in a dazzling array of gemstones. Her commitment to abstraction over naturalism sets her jewels apart from others and creates the graphic and sculptural quality that is becoming Lauren Adriana's signature. On the exhibition Sarah O'Brien, International Director, Jewellery, said: "Lauren Adriana, Jewels Now presents a new way of looking at jewels, setting a fresh dialogue for what

What Follows

What Follows by Sian Evans 28th October - 2nd November 2019 67 York Street, London Sian Evans and Pond come together to present two gold jewellery collections which seek to extend the life of materials through individual approaches to sustainable practices and traceability. Natalie Holt and Holly Archer Nicholls have worked together for over a decade in the jewellery and fashion industry. Whilst working in a fast paced fashion environment helped to hone their skills as designers, they despaired at the waste that was a by-product of this way of working - both material waste and unexplored ideas. They created

Nadine Aysoy makes eye-catching IJL debut

London-based designer Nadine Aysoy made a dazzling IJL debut when she scooped the 2017 Editors Choice 'Show Stoppers' Award for displaying the single most eye-catching exhibit of the show. Her Mille et Une Feuilles 18k rose gold ring, set with one 14mm South Sea Pearl and 164 round-cut diamonds, turned the heads of the judging panel of magazine and digital editors, who praised its leaf design and admired it for having 'drama, intrigue and beautiful craftsmanship.’ “I love Nadine’s aesthetic and the consideration she puts into the market she’s targeting,” one judge commented. “Hers are pieces for grown-ups and designs

What Colour is Metal?

What Colour is Met­al? 14 October - 3 December 2022 Winchester Gallery, Hampshire What Colour is Met­al? brings you on a jour­ney of process, exper­i­men­ta­tion and mas­tery through the work of  25  con­tem­po­rary jew­ellers and silversmiths. This exhibition is a consideration of the relationship between metal and colour in contemporary silversmithing and jewellery practice, and a mapping of relationships and practice in key centres internationally. It examines approaches ranging from colour achieved using the inherent properties of metal to react with other chemicals or heat (or a combination of the two); the reveal of colour as a property of the metal

Tradition re-imagined: Nadine Aysoy expands the Celeste Collection

Chinese Tradition serves as the inspiration behind Nadine Aysoy's celebrated Celeste collection. Now, the addition of six new pieces, sees tradition re-imagined once again.  Ushering in the Summer months, the new additions are sprinkled with gemstones in festival colours; blue, yellow and pink sapphires. The more light, petite designs see the wearer shed the larger, decadant styles favoured in the winter, in favour of embracing the carefree attitude of the summer. The Celeste collection has been inspired by art, sculptures and ancient Chinese tradition, using smooth disks of White Jade, which signify harmony, courage and unconditional love; the stone is also said to

As Above, So Below at Gallery S O

So Above, So Below: Kathleen Reilly 5 April – 26 May 2019 Gallery S O, London "It hits my nose before I think to notice. Brace." Gallery S O is very pleased to announce a solo-exhibition by Scottish artist and metalworker Kathleen Reilly. She presents an installation of new and existing work. The exhibition will include for the first-time a series of Reilly’s poetic writings following the theme of As Above, So Below. With this new exhibition, the audience is invited to draw parallels between her writings and the tangible outcomes, creating contemplative and subtle connections between these two facets of

Keeping Time Never Looked So Good!

There's no other timeless piece in one's jewellery box than the classic wristwatch. Not long ago, the rage was to have  that  Michael Kors rose gold watch. However, it seems that 2019 is where keeping time has never looked so good, or diverse. Whether you are looking to add another treasure to your growing collection or making this Spring Season the time you invest in a timepiece, the market has never been so abundant with options. Looking for something chic and smart? Or maybe something bold and sparkly? How about dainty and delicate or classically practical? There's a wristwatch suited

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,

What's in Trend Now: Rocking Rhinestone

If you're wondering how you're going to transition your summer jewellery staples into fall favourites, the trick is to swap out your golden coin medallions and fruity, floral brights for something a little more overstated and substantial: rhinestones. Falling in torrents from the lobes of runway models was unapologetically bold, look-at-me rhinestones in all shapes, styles and colours. We're not talking about the subtle and dainty nod to bling we've seen in previous seasons, no, designers want you dripping and glistening with shiny blinged out bracelets, earrings and necklaces hanging off every ear, wrist, body and decolletage. A little bit

Bloomin’ Jewels

Bloomin’ Jewels The blossoming of the floral in contemporary jewellery Special exhibition and talks programme Bloomin’ Jewels’ , is a new selling exhibition at Contemporary Applied Arts in Bankside, which sows the seeds for a regrowth of the floral motif. This special exhibition spotlights cutting-edge, imaginative and technically accomplished modern work whilst celebrating the long and esteemed tradition of depicting flowers and foliage in jewellery. Over 20 respected contemporary jewellers have been invited to offer work using the botanical as a starting point for the creation of jewellery. The results will surprise and dazzle anyone interested in contemporary jewellery, decorative

Cora Sheibani: Jewels

Cora Sheibani: Jewels by William Grant Cora Sheibani – Jewels  is published to mark the 20th anniversary of Cora Sheibani’s eponymous brand Cora Sheibani’s jewels are the product of a highly active imagination. Her creations are designed to surprise and delight – miniature cakes and jellies that look good enough to eat; rings and bracelets that glow in the dark; shimmering clouds with diamond raindrops; jewels that stare back at you, and plant pots billowing with vegetation. Her design handwriting is predicated on a bold sense of form and colour, allied with a playful, contradictory mindset. Her design philosophy is

21 GRAMS What’s the weight of our soul?

21 GRAMS is an experimental jewellery exhibition organized, curated and conceived by Ruudt Peters writes Ilaria Ruggiero. Guo Xin,  1 Gram - Rebound,  2018 Silver plated, stainless steel, jade Sun Jie, W ho are you,  2018 Golden paint, metal, resin Beginning in the 1970's, Ruudt Peters, a pioneering Dutch conceptual jewellery artist, challenged traditional definitions of adornment by pushing the boundaries of context, wearability, materials and presentation. He defines himself as a philosopher and an alchemist, his pieces of jewellery being extensions of a person.  Peters Ruudt, L ast Breath,  2018 Silver Glass El-Asmar-Nedda,  Transit Vessel,  2018 24K gold Always challenging the

100 Jewels by 100 Women

100 Jewels by 100 Women 2 nd  - 27 th  June 2021 Double Door Studios’, 7 Ward Road, Dundee, DD1 1LP This June, the residents of Dundee City Centre’s Double Door Studios will hold an exhibition named ‘100 Jewels by 100 Women’, celebrating the achievements of craftswomen in our society. The exhibition will feature one item of jewellery from each of the one hundred invited artists; women who have lived, studied and/or worked in Dundee during their careers.  Among the broad list of participants can be found many of Duncan of Jordanstone's tutors and alumni from over three decades. From

A History of Coronation Dress and Jewels

Talk: Ceremony And Splendour A History Of Coronation Dress And Jewels Clothworrkes’ Hall, London Monday, 6th March 2023 The Creative Dimension Trust (TCDT) will host a talk on coronations in the elegant surroundings of Clothworrkes’ Hall on Monday 6th March, with Caroline de Guitaut, Deputy Surveyor of The King’s Works of Art 100% of the proceeds will go towards TCDT's fully funded workshops, taught by craft specialists, for 14-19-year-olds who wish to develop their hand skills.  Focussing on the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, the lecture will explore the origins, design and evolution of Coronation dress and jewels – from richly embroidered fashionable

Winter Jewels 2017

Winter Jewels – Jewellery Exhibition 'Winter Jewels’ Jewellery Exhibition is once again set to sparkle at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. Members of the Association for Contemporary Jewellery Wessex will be welcomed back to the Visitor Pavilion for their popular annual selling exhibition, which is now in it’s 6 year. The exhibition features the best contemporary jewellery in Wessex by more than 25 studio jewellers from the region, with the makers manning the exhibition themselves.  The 25+ cabinets showcase a variety of skill, styles and techniques from the talented local artisans.  Please see the ACJ Wessex website  www.acjwessex.co.uk  to see who will

Franks Files: The Rich History of Magnificent Jewels

Frank Everett hits the books to reveal the exceptional provenance behind the highlights of Sotheby’s upcoming Magnificent Jewels sale on 25 April in New York. With a history that includes two celebrated design houses and three incomparable women, the outstanding 34-carat Stotesbury Emerald leads the auction, reappearing for the first time since 1971, alongside intricate pieces by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Sotheby's Upcoming Magnificent Jewels Sale - Including the Legendary Stotesbury Emerald The 25 April Magnificent Jewels sale is a vibrant celebration perfect for springtime. Centering upon jewels with distinguished provenances, the sale is one that honors the most

Phillips Presents ‘Jewels Now’ a Lauren Adriana solo exhibition

International auction house Phillips will be hosting ‘ Lauren Adriana, Jewels Now ’, a landmark exhibition tagged as ' A Radical Reimagining of the Future of Jewels ' featuring Lauren Adriana's work, taking place in New York and London. Lauren Adriana creates unique, bold, abstract jewels in a dazzling array of gemstones. Her commitment to abstraction over naturalism sets her jewels apart from others and creates the graphic and sculptural quality that is becoming Lauren Adriana's signature. This immersive, selling exhibition of 50 jewels is the culmination of two years' planning and spans five years of work. It comprises new jewels

Phillips Presents ‘Jewels Now’ a Lauren Adriana solo exhibition

International auction house Phillips will be hosting ‘ Lauren Adriana, Jewels Now ’, a landmark exhibition tagged as ' A Radical Reimagining of the Future of Jewels ' featuring Lauren Adriana's work, taking place in New York and London. Lauren Adriana creates unique, bold, abstract jewels in a dazzling array of gemstones. Her commitment to abstraction over naturalism sets her jewels apart from others and creates the graphic and sculptural quality that is becoming Lauren Adriana's signature. This immersive, selling exhibition of 50 jewels is the culmination of two years' planning and spans five years of work. It comprises new jewels

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

What can Jewellery Businesses Learn from the Celestial Trend?

A recent report by WGSN, the leading experts in fashion forecasting, reveals that astrology themed fashion is going nowhere this year. Americans spent $2.2m on mystical services in 2018, according to research firm IBISWorld, while a Pew Research Centre survey of American adults released last year found that 37% of women and 20% of men said they believed in astrology. According to the report, the rise in New Age spirituality has emerged as a result of anxiety. Political, societal, economic and environmental concerns leave us searching for meaning and control in our lives.  Let’s face it though, the skies will

Gyan Jewels Unveil The Lattice Collection

Inspired and informed by the ambience and ever-flowing emotions of the famous Gyan museum, the latest collection by Gyan Jewels reworks a historic architectural motif to create its latest collection of fine jewellery.  The new Lattice Collection is inspired by one of the Gyan Museum’s rare finds, a stone window which is a slice from the past that celebrates the rich history and vibrant culture of Rajasthan and in particular the pink city of Jaipur. The collection reflects the perforated ornamental patterns (jalis) of this ancient window and reinterprets the silhouette with a contemporary twist. The new creations are set in

Katy Tromans wins Artistar Jewels 2018 Award at Milan Fashion Week

Last month the winners of the fifth edition of Artistar Jewels were announced in Milan, Italy, where 2016 Birmingham School of Jewellery graduate Katy Tromans picked up an international award for her  amazing standards of detail. Artistar Jewels is an international competition dedicated to promotion of contemporary jewellery culture culminating in an awards ceremony and exhibition. The event took place in Palazzo dei Giureconsulti, Milan, Italy, a historical palace overlooing the Duomo Square, and hosted 450 creations from an array of international jewellery artists and designers. Entries on show at the Artistar Jewels 2018 exhibition in Milan, Italy Artistar Jewels 2018 was

Mapping a Legacy of Indian Jewels

“Mapping a Legacy of Indian Jewels”  Uncovers India’s Historic Gem Trade 11 - 12 October 2019 Four Seasons Hotel, Mumbai Led by Saffron Art, the biennial jewellery conference, ‘Mapping a Legacy of Indian Jewels’ will be making a comeback with a second edition in early autumn on the 11thto the 12thof October at Mumbai’s Four Seasons Hotel. The two-day conference  will feature a line-up of prestigious speakers such as contemporary jewellery designer Viren Bhagat, art historian and author Hugo Crespo, chief advisor to the Maharaja of Kapurthala, Cynthia Meera Frederick, and international jewellery specialists Joanna Hardy and Lisa Hubbard. Saffronart’s Mapping

RiVa Jewels and the anatomical jewel

A new conception of the decorative spaces of the body is the stylistic fashion of Riva Gioielli that with freshness and simplicity create linear and geometric collections, able to surprise the eye writes Ilaria Ruggiero. Without constructions or conceptualizations, the designer Allegra Pazienti focuses on comfort, functionality and innovative elegance. She tries to surprise with grace, and she succeeds.  Sobriety and modernity are the terms that Allegra uses to describe her production. Sober but never banal, the design that characterizes her creations is inspired by the anatomy of the body, chasing and reproducing it.  Stars, spikes, triangle, circles, some flowers and

Date Night Jewels

When it comes to date night impressions it seems that our mothers were onto something all along; less is most certainly more. Taking the bold and brash road of ego-driven bravado and attention-grabbing pomposity is a dating game faux-pas. Distracting, flashy and pretentious demeanour is a red flag marker for one thirsty flirt pursuit and all you'll be left with is a one way ticket to killing a good vibe. Subtle sophistication is the golden key to making a night of romance truly remarkable; not only in our words and actions but also for our embellished adornments. A memorable night

Jeweller Stephen Saliba tells Benchpeg what its like in Italy during Covid-19

Jeweller Stephen Saliba has been a resident in Bristol for over 40 years. In the last year he took the plunge and re-located to Italy. He tells Benchpeg what its been like to relocate and set up a business during a pandemic. With over ten years of teaching experience, Stephen decided to set up a workshop and school of jewellery ‘Art Lab Todi’ in the historic town of Todi in Umbria. The school and workshop are located on the ground floor of a palace, within a town full of architectural gems and history. The Jewellery School is set up with

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

Bloomin’ Jewels Talk: In Conversation with Corinne Julius

Bloomin’ Jewels The blossoming of the floral in contemporary jewellery Special exhibition and talks programme Bloomin’ Jewels’ , is a new selling exhibition at Contemporary Applied Arts in Bankside, which sows the seeds for a regrowth of the floral motif. This special exhibition spotlights cutting-edge, imaginative and technically accomplished modern work whilst celebrating the long and esteemed tradition of depicting flowers and foliage in jewellery. Over 20 respected contemporary jewellers have been invited to offer work using the botanical as a starting point for the creation of jewellery. The results will surprise and dazzle anyone interested in contemporary jewellery, decorative

Bloomin’ Jewels Talk: Geoffrey Munn – The Floral in Jewellery

Bloomin’ Jewels The blossoming of the floral in contemporary jewellery Special exhibition and talks programme ‘Bloomin’ Jewels’ , is a new selling exhibition at Contemporary Applied Arts in Bankside, which sows the seeds for a regrowth of the floral motif. This special exhibition spotlights cutting-edge, imaginative and technically accomplished modern work whilst celebrating the long and esteemed tradition of depicting flowers and foliage in jewellery. Over 20 respected contemporary jewellers have been invited to offer work using the botanical as a starting point for the creation of jewellery. The results will surprise and dazzle anyone interested in contemporary jewellery, decorative

Bloomin’ Jewels Talk: Geoffrey Munn – The Floral in Jewellery

Bloomin’ Jewels The blossoming of the floral in contemporary jewellery Special exhibition and talks programme ‘Bloomin’ Jewels’ , is a new selling exhibition at Contemporary Applied Arts in Bankside, which sows the seeds for a regrowth of the floral motif. This special exhibition spotlights cutting-edge, imaginative and technically accomplished modern work whilst celebrating the long and esteemed tradition of depicting flowers and foliage in jewellery. Over 20 respected contemporary jewellers have been invited to offer work using the botanical as a starting point for the creation of jewellery. The results will surprise and dazzle anyone interested in contemporary jewellery, decorative

Bloomin’ Jewels Talk: Geoffrey Munn – The Floral in Jewellery

Bloomin’ Jewels The blossoming of the floral in contemporary jewellery Special exhibition and talks programme Bloomin’ Jewels’ , is a new selling exhibition at Contemporary Applied Arts in Bankside, which sows the seeds for a regrowth of the floral motif. This special exhibition spotlights cutting-edge, imaginative and technically accomplished modern work whilst celebrating the long and esteemed tradition of depicting flowers and foliage in jewellery. Over 20 respected contemporary jewellers have been invited to offer work using the botanical as a starting point for the creation of jewellery. The results will surprise and dazzle anyone interested in contemporary jewellery, decorative

Winter Jewels, Association for Contemporary Jewellery Wessex

Winter Jewels 5 Exhibition is the fifth annual selling exhibtion presented by th  Association for Contemporary Jewellery  Wessex Group. As usual the exhibtion offers a prize draw, where the lucky winner will receive a voucher for £100 to spend on jewellery from  any of the participating jewellers. There will be approximately 25 cabinets with a different jeweller's work in each one, providing a huge variety of work on display. The exhibition will run from Friday 25th November until Monday 2nd January 2017 and will be open from 10am until 4pm each day (apart from the last day when we finish at

Bloomin’ Jewels Talk: In conversation with Corinne Julius

Bloomin’ Jewels The blossoming of the floral in contemporary jewellery Special exhibition and talks programme Bloomin’ Jewels’ , is a new selling exhibition at Contemporary Applied Arts in Bankside, which sows the seeds for a regrowth of the floral motif. This special exhibition spotlights cutting-edge, imaginative and technically accomplished modern work whilst celebrating the long and esteemed tradition of depicting flowers and foliage in jewellery. Over 20 respected contemporary jewellers have been invited to offer work using the botanical as a starting point for the creation of jewellery. The results will surprise and dazzle anyone interested in contemporary jewellery, decorative

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

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

Knives into Jewels: Crafting a Safer Birmingham

A leading artist, activist and academic is using jewellery as a vehicle for social intervention as he launches a special project aimed at tackling knife crime among young people in Birmingham. The ‘ Swords into Ploughshares: Knives into Jewels’ project had been co-developed by Dauvit Alexander, Senior Lecturer in Jewellery and Silversmithing at Birmingham City University’s (BCU) School of Jewellery and former head of School Professor Norman Cherry. This collaborative project will take jewellery into schools in Areas of Multiple Deprivation (AMDs) bringing together drama, virtual reality, crafting, intensive mentoring, and first-aid training to encourage 14 to 16-year-olds to think

Champagne Showers in Race Day Jewels

Galloping off to a day of sumptuous hospitality, world-class racing, fabulous fashion and sartorial elegance? Welcome to the season of popping corks, fine-dining, frivolous antics and the mixing and mingling of tradition and fun; Race Day tomfoolery is off to a flying start! Experience the spirit of summer out on the racecourses with a winning selection of jewellery wonders that'll have you turning heads come rain or shine. Accessorise your polished champagne flutes with a touch of regal refinement in graceful gemstones and delicate drapery dripping in colour, charm and unforgettable glamour. From classic milky pearls to modern bursts of

Bloomin’ Jewels Talk: Christine Lalumia, Executive Director of CAA

Bloomin’ Jewels The blossoming of the floral in contemporary jewellery Special exhibition and talks programme Bloomin’ Jewels’ , is a new selling exhibition at Contemporary Applied Arts in Bankside, which sows the seeds for a regrowth of the floral motif. This special exhibition spotlights cutting-edge, imaginative and technically accomplished modern work whilst celebrating the long and esteemed tradition of depicting flowers and foliage in jewellery. Over 20 respected contemporary jewellers have been invited to offer work using the botanical as a starting point for the creation of jewellery. The results will surprise and dazzle anyone interested in contemporary jewellery, decorative

Jewels of The Ocean: The Trend Making A Wave This Spring

An oceanic explosion of creative artistry has plunged onto the 2018 spring jewellery edit. Prepare yourselves for an expansive sea-bed of eye-catching, beautifully bright, mis-matched pieces, inspired by the vibrant life found underwater. Throwing it back to the 90s surfer vibes, long gone are the days of cornrows and white shell chokers ready to reveal the sophisticated and playful pieces jumping for air this spring. The fashion runways revealed models adorned in mismatched shell earrings, revamped conch-shell rings and gemstone encrusted charm bracelets in tropical palettes of dazzling colour. From door-knocking droppers and decked-out chokers to dainty delicates, embrace this

Max Carocci Lecture

'Precious Metals-Precious Stones: Symbolism and Technologies of Precolumbian Jewellery' Lecture by Max Carocci  Tuesday 11 October 2022, 18:00 – 20:00 What are the reasons for a culture to produce jewels from very specific raw materials? How do we make sense of the inordinate use of certain metals? What causes certain societies to value certain metals over others? Through examples drawn from the exceptional creativity and craftmanship of Precolumbian master jewellers, we address these and other questions related to the meanings, symbolism, and values differently associated with jewellery, and how they work in society. About the Lecturer: British Museum-based Dr. Max Carocci

Enjoy the magic of the Crown Jewels in your living room with a new Immersive AR experience

The   groundbreaking   The Coronation: The Immersive AR Experience  allows you to engage and interact with two digital twins of the Coronation Crowns in your own home, supporting the UK’s first 21st century Coronation. Available from 27th April exclusively on the Sky News App and website. Atlantic Productions, with thanks to the Royal Household, have created an immersive digital experience that allows all those following the Coronation to interact with the very Crown Jewels that will be used to crown King Charles III on Saturday 6th May. For the first time ever, people around the world will be able

Tropicool Charm for Summer

You've got the paradise destination ready and booked, your holiday wardrobe is getting locked down and your suitcase is already out of the attic loud n'proud so what 's left to take your SS18 holiday style to the next level? Pile on the colour, texture, print and shapes with the perfect summer colour-popping jewellery! Life becomes a whole lot more fabulously fun with a taste of the exotic so dive into the tropical world of summer with palm leaf prints, juicy fruit motifs, multi-coloured parrot pendants and brighten your life with statement style. Transform your life in rich ornamental synergy

A Fab Boost For Megan Collins and Her 'Succulent' Collection

When Megan Collins arrived in London from South Africa in 2012, she wasn't sure what path her career would take but she knew she had an opportunity to try something new. She enrolled on a week-long course at Vannetta Seecharran School of Jewellery and "totally loved it". So much so that she embarked upon the year-long diploma course and soon found herself making jewellery that spoke to her South African roots, based on the shapes of native succulent plants. Since completing the course in 2014, her creative career has been constantly evolving. Along with teaching Art and Design four days

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,

2018 Oscar Jewels Adorn the Red Carpet and total some £21M for the night

Last Sunday’s 90th annual Academy Awards - more commonly known as the Oscars - are arguably the most prestigious awards and red carpet event of the year for the film and entertainment industry. This year was no exception with actresses waiving the black only dress code seen at previous award ceremonies this year, to make the most of the most prestigious event of the Awards year. It is estimated that the total value of watches and jewellery adorned on the famed Oscars red carpet this year was some $30 million [£21M]. High jewellery houses took advantage of the showcase, Chopard adorned

Introducing the latest Harry Winston collection ‘Winston Gates’

Signature design codes from luxury maisons are often reinterpreted time and time again, however, Harry Winston’s latest jewellery collection looks to a unique part of the brand’s history for inspiration writes Jodie Smith. What do you think of when you hear the name Harry Winston? Renowned for his acquisition of some of the world’s most famous diamonds such as the Jonker, Hope, and Winston Legacy diamonds - as well as his philanthropic pursuits - Harry Winston is a name usually associated with enormous jewels, like the headline grabbing purple sapphire and diamond necklace which Jennifer Lopez sported on the Met Gala

App-ccessories: The Rise of Wearable Tech

Humans have adorned themselves in jewels, metal mixes and delicately embellished accessories for tens of thousands of years. But for what reason? The answer quite simply put is because jewellery looks pretty. Bejewelled adornments, up until now, has had a limited repertoire of functionality. The mirage of glistening and sparkling rings we flash upon our fingers may well tell us the status of our relationship whilst that watch on your wrist tells you the time of day but aside from this, they provide very little purpose. In most circumstances, the jewellery we wear is purely to add a little charm,

Adorn Your Wrists With Taste & Style

The world is buzzing with over 7 million individual bodies all bustling and running between their daily activities and schedules. 7 million unique personalities striving to pave the way for a unique style status and what better way than through the jewels that you wear. A piece of jewellery holds a lot more power than simply looking pretty, it also reveals a lot about its owner, from their style, taste, their personality and status. A jewellery adornment that is commonly overlooked in favour of flamboyant show-stopping earrings and necklace, the bracelet is an elegant and stylish way to add a

FREE Online Invicon Session

On Sally Leonard’s latest trip to Vicenza Oro, she met an awesome company that specialises in colour coatings for jewellery, including PROPER industrial ceramic (that you can set stones in!!!) They don't really have a presence in the UK at the moment, so she has set up this 90 minute session to show as many people as possible what it is, what it can do and how you can use it. Invicon will demonstrate their three colour coating products for jewellery, HyCeram, LuxArt and Luxon. Find out how they are used and how you can procure any or all of

21 GRAMS

21 GRAMS BeCraft Galerie, Belgique 23.06.2019 → 08.09.2019 An exhibition initiated by the China Academy of Art, in collaboration with BeCraft, the Handwerk München Gallery (DE), the Legnica Gallery of Art (PL) and the CODA Museum (PB) Does the soul exist? If so, what is its consistency? And where will she lodge? Rational or not, the answer depends on the personal beliefs of everyone. At the beginning of this hypothesis, that of the weight of the soul - which should be equivalent to 21 grams - a series of world artists set the tone. Driven by aspirations (in) consciously influenced by

TALK: In Conversation With Mary Ann Wingfeild And Rachael Taylor

TALK: In Conversation With Mary Ann Wingfeild And Rachael Taylor Date:  Tuesday 21 February, 2023 Start Time:  6.00 PM End Time:  8.00 PM Venue:  FORGE Mary Ann Wingfield is author of Modern British Jewellery Designers 1960-1980.  An introduction to the most influential British designers spanning two decades and reveals the inspirations behind the evolution of their identifiable designs and signature styles. Rachael Taylor author of two books about Tiffany & Cartier - The Story Behind the Style. A visual history of two of the world's most iconic brands and jewels of our times. Hear Mary Ann and Rachael discuss what inspired them to choose these

Publications

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

Q&A: Rosie Fortescue

BAFTA award winning reality TV personality, fashion blogger, style writer and jewellery designer  Rosie Fortescue answers the benchpeg Q&A. What’s your name, and what do you for a living? RF: Rosie Fortescue, jewellery designer and fashion blogger. How did you come to work in the jewellery industry? RF: I have been obsessed with jewellery for as long as I can remember so it seemed the natural progression of fulfilling my dream. How would you describe your work to someone who doesn’t know it? RF: I design affordable luxury jewellery from women of all ages. What is your creative process? RF: I write down

MASTERY. Women in Silver

MASTERY. Women in Silver Ruthin Craft Centre 24 July – 18 September 2021 This is the first exhibition to focus on the UK’s exceptionally talented contemporary women designer silversmiths. Fifty years ago, it would have been impossible to assemble an exhibition like this, as there were so few women working in the field. What was once a totally male discipline has been transformed within three generations. The Mastery exhibitors represent a large cohort of women working at the highest level of silversmithing and include long-established and mid-career artists alongside some emerging makers of exceptional promise. The work itself was chosen

A Family Journey - Around Europe In 10 Days

Boodles launch their new High Jewellery Collection for 2023 around the story of Anthony Wainwright's round the world trip in 1962. Some sixty year later Nohcholas Wainwright makes a simlar journey round Europe to source stones, design pieces and have lots of fun along the way... He writes... We’ll always be a forward-looking business. But once in a while, it’s nice to look back and at my age, I do what I’m told. So when my family co-directors of Boodles said they’d like me to do a Grand Tour of Europe in 10 days, who was I to

The Benevolent Society bestow 50 goodwill hampers to beneficiaries

The Benevolent Society were delighted to identify up to 50 of their hardest up and longest standing beneficiaries and to send to each of them this week a beautiful hamper full of goodies as a timely reminder that they have not been forgotten. The Society issued a statement which said: "With all of the talk of worldwide pandemic, economic disaster, job losses, the NHS being overwhelmed, it is important that we do not forget those that have gone before us and contributed so much to making our great industries what they are today." Simon Dawe the BenSoc Chairman said: “It

Flexibility, Creativity & Productivity: The New Industry Model for Working

In 1926, Henry Ford introduced the 8-hour working day, now not-so-lovingly colloquialised as ‘the 9-5’. Back then, this revolution changed the way people lived- from working 10-16 hours a day, 6 days a week, to what reformist Robert Owen formulated as “eight hours labour, eight hours recreation, eight hours rest” .  The dramatic decrease in hours actually led to higher productivity, and consequently higher profit margins. This model has reigned supreme for almost a century, but now people are now beginning to question whether it’s time to rethink working patterns once again. The Swedish famously trialled a 6-hour workday, in

Kelvin J Birk: From the hegemony of value to the freedom of form

Kelvin J Birk loves to explore the concept of value in jewellery, and he does so through the provocation that characterizes his creative process writes Ilaria Ruggiero. His creations are in fact the result of a series of actions to break and pulverise precious stones, which are thus deprived of their first and original form and structure in order to create something new; in some ways the same, but also different. The stones are then mixed together, in some cases with non-precious materials, thus playing with the altered perceptions that such a mixture can create. In this way Kelvin questions what

A Touch of Noir

When we think of diamonds we're used to picturing white sparkly stones, so what if we were to say that alongside those bright glistening stones is a dark step sister that is becoming equally popular? In recent years, the demand and popularity for nonconventional stones - particularly in engagement rings- has found black diamonds to be one of the most popular choices of fancy-coloured diamonds. Previously held in low regard, natural-colour black diamonds continued to be unpopular until designers started to implement them into their collections in the late 20th century; often contrasting them with colourless pave diamonds. Perhaps the

All About That Pink

The jewellery world is taking an effortlessly chic and charmingly stylish hint towards sugar-coated tones of feminity. So what is this colour that's sweeping across new season collections? Think Pink! Trend setters all over have embraced this romantic trend with all things feminine and fun and full of whimsical charm. From pretty sherbert pinks, rich raspberry, pale rose hints to delicious candy floss hues, designers have had fun combining exquisite craftmanship with playful colour spectrum combinations and design. The dainty and delicate array of pinks currently on trend delight when paired with the vintage feel of rose-gold, lending a ladylike

We like big hearts and we cannot lie

What better way is there to make a statement than with a whole load of heart? This summer we welcome the return of statement-making and colourful pieces versus the dainty and delicate trend that trumped the chic list for so long. The heart motif is an ever-popular choice; from text emoticons, clothing embellishments to tattoo design but possibly the most powerful of all is when it appears in the jewellery we wear. These days, the heart motif can represent a range of core themes from friendship and affection to deep romantic love and devotion. A significant motif in antique jewellery,

Golden Fever for New Season Refinement

Simplistic. Elegant, Timeless. Classic yellow gold is making a comeback within a new wave of modernist jewellery design, making it the perfect accessory for adding a touch of complimentary refinement to the new season.  What comes to mind when someone mentions gold accessories is times-past bandwagon of big, bold and unashamedly in your face.  Fast forward to 2018 and the hustle-bustle of life makes for no down-time so jewellery that works for day-to night ease and wearability is top of our priorities. Yellow gold has undergone a sleek new makeover with the mood of pared-down delicacy sweeping brash and loud

AUTOR International Contemporary Jewelry Fair 2019

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

The Unspoken Beauty of Moissanite

Moissanite   (/ˈmɔɪsənaɪt/) So what exactly is moissanite; the ugly step-sister of the cinderella gem world? Think again! Incredibly rare and precious, moissanite is a beautifully natural gemstone born from a meteorite star that fell to Earth in 1893. Originally thought to be the discovery of Diamond by French scientist Henri Moissan, it was soon revealed to be a crystal gemstone with very similar properties to Diamond but that was composed of silicon carbide. Due to the natural composition of Moissanite, it has become a very scarce mineral worldwide making moissainte as we see it today almost entirely laboratory-grown. Through

Auverture adds Gaelle Khouri to Luxury Offering

A carefully curated selection of Khouri's iconic pieces from her Soft Deconstruction and Garden of Earthly Delights collections is available at auverture.com  amongst the likes of Fernardo Jorge, Venyx, Lydia Courteille, Delfina Delettrez, Pamela Love, Noor Fares and Bibi van der Velden. Gaelle Khouri creates her beautifully elaborate jewellery to lend the women who wear it a feeling of strength, so they can “better express who they are, silently and effortlessly,” says the jeweller. This Lebanese designer’s creations stand out for their rare, unique beauty. Her first collection, “The Garden of Earthly Delights,” is inspired by what Khouri calls “the

Domino’s Diamonds Scintillate at IJL

Domino’s recently refreshed ‘Scintillating Diamond’ collection was very well received at International Jewellery London earlier this month. The stunning earring and neckwear range features diamonds suspended on fine threads to create additional movement and sparkle. There are 46 individual designs, 37 of which are brand new for Autumn 2016. Pieces can be purchased as a suite, providing great add-on sales, or can be mixed and matched across the collection to suit individual style and taste. Available in 18ct white, yellow or rose gold, this striking range features HSi certificated diamonds. So what are the reasons for the pull that this collection

Drop 'em Like It's Hot: Earring Shoulder Smoulder

Whilst we hate to be the summer fun kill joys and dare to utter the words 'farewell sunshine you fare weather friend', the shiny new month of September is here loud n'proud and ready to strut into the season of fanciful fall with boldly ornate outlandish pieces your magpie eyes can't help but clock! There's nothing quite like hearing the crunch of fresh fall leaves crumbling under foot on that first break of chilly morning work runs so what better way to maximise the experience by maximising your lobe'drobe in synch! Catwalks have shown no mercy when it comes to

Dorothea Prühl & Otto Künzli - Noam Elyashiv - David Clarke - Tore Svensson- Galerie Marzee

Dorothea Prühl & Otto Künzli - Noam Elyashiv - David Clarke - Tore Svensson - Galerie Marzee Galerie Marzee  presents: Dorothea Prühl (DE) & Otto Künzli (DE)  So Near – So Far Noam Elyashiv (US) David Clarke (UK) Altar’d Tore Svensson (SE) Dorothea Prühl & Otto Künzli So Near – So Far So near. Dorothea Prühl and Otto Künzli, each in their own way, break with conventional ideas but nevertheless they move within the framework of the established rules of wearable jewellery. So far. The artistic concepts of Dorothea Prühl and Otto Künzli could not be more different. Noam Elyashiv

Razzledazzle on the red carpet at Met Gala and Cannes

Chopard, Lorraine Schwarz and Messika were among the winning brands at the Met Gala and Cannes Festivals recently as the world's most glamorous actors put some of the world's most dazzling jewels on show in front of the world's biggest cameras! Author:  Published: 

Objet d’Emotion at PAD Monaco

Objet d’Emotion at PAD Monaco 26th - 28th April 2019 Grimaldi Forum 10, Avenue Princess Grace MC 98000 Monaco Showcasing a selection of fine jewels from six of the best contemporary creators including Alice Cicolini, Fabio Salini, Lydia Courteille, Melanie Georgacopoulos, Nadia Morgenthaler and Philippe Guilhem. Cicolini will exhibit a selection of her artfully handpainted meenakari enamel rings and sautoirs. Whilst Salini will present a design story united by his innovative use of carbon fibre, set with one of a kind stones to create lightweight statement jewels. Courteille’s imagining of the worlds creatures in precious gems brings a fantastical element

Dazzling Diamonds, Sparkling Sapphires! @ Kath Libbert Jewellery Gallery

Dazzling Diamonds, Sparkling Sapphires! Kath Libbert Jewellery Gallery 28 August - 27 September 2020 "It's been a delight to welcome so many of you back and we have got off to a great start, thank you! So going forward here are our dates and times for the bank holiday weekend and on into September. Although we are operating an appointments only system we are managing as well to offer on the spot 'pop in' appointments! So if you are in the mill do pop in and ask and we will give you the next available slot." August Bank Holiday Fri

Imperial Splendours Exhibition - Beijing

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

Imperial Splendours: Chaumet spans its history in Beijing

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

Electroforming Jewellery Workshop @ K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Caroline Broadhead: Questions of Jewellery 20 -23 July 2020 K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery Masterclass - Questions Of Jewellery Jewellery encompasses a wide range of issues and meanings, most often about what is valued and what is rated as important in our lives. The way ideas are expressed range from light hearted to hard-hitting, playful to political and everything in between. This workshop is aimed at those with an interest in the expanded field of contemporary jewellery i.e. body-related objects, clothing, performance and image-based ideas.   Starting with rapid response briefs designed to challenge received preconceptions, we will find out what questions are the

Manon van Kouswijk - Sources & Resources at K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery, London

Manon van Kouswijk - Sources & Resources at K Academy of Contemporary Jewellery, London 17 - 20 July 2019 A 4 Day Masterclass led by Manon van Kouswijk at K Academy Of Contemporary Jewellery, London Masterclass - Sources & Resources The project of contemporary jewellery started out as an idealistic one that aimed to change our thinking about what jewellery was and what it could be. In our increasingly image-driven era of late capitalism how do you articulate and shape your position within contemporary jewellery practice? What is it that draws you to work with this particular subject matter and

Terms of Use

Thank you for visiting Benchpeg. Our Terms and Conditions explain how to use our site, what you are allowed to do, and what you are not, and what our liability is for your use of this website. Before you use our website, please read these terms of use carefully. By using any part of our website, you are agreeing to these terms in full, regardless of your decision to register as a member on our website. If you do not accept these terms, you must leave our website immediately. These terms were last updated in August 2016. We may change

Classifieds - Looking For Work

Sometimes, the essentials are hard to come by. Our classifieds listings could have just what you’re after, but be careful: we haven’t checked everything that’s on offer. 

Classifieds - Workshop Space Wanted

Sometimes, the essentials are hard to come by. Our classifieds listings could have just what you’re after, but be careful: we haven’t checked everything that’s on offer. 

Classifieds - Workshop Space Available

Sometimes, the essentials are hard to come by. Our classifieds listings could have just what you’re after, but be careful: we haven’t checked everything that’s on offer. 

Classifieds - Secondhand Tools Wanted

Sometimes, the essentials are hard to come by. Our classifieds listings could have just what you’re after, but be careful: we haven’t checked everything that’s on offer. 

Classifieds - Secondhand Tools For Sale

Sometimes, the essentials are hard to come by. Our classifieds listings could have just what you’re after, but be careful: we haven’t checked everything that’s on offer. 

Luz Arias - Nuanced transparency

Luz Arias has been dedicating herself to jewellery since 1999 and during her career she also becomes curator of the "Puro Diseño" fair, thus acquiring a formal sensibility towards both project and creativity writes  Ilaria Ruggiero She meets the glass almost by chance becoming her perfect alter ego, as often happens to those who are attracted to and approach this material, so concrete but so elusive. From the moment she starts working with glass, she improves technique and aesthetics in a personal and unique way. A bit in general, and especially in her work, Luz does not aim to dominate

19th Annual Fashion + Design Conference, 365 5th Avenue New York

White: Palette, Prism, Possibility 19th Annual Fashion + Design Conference  Why White?  Because  it contains—and hides—multitudes. So said Melville in his Whiteness of the Whale. So said Vince Gilligan in his Whiteness of the Walter.  Because white is itself as varied as those multitudes.  Because  it tricks us into thinking that there is no color where in fact there is nothing but. White is the repository of hope and change. In this, the 19th New York Fashion and Design Conference, we seek to reveal these multitudes, whether in the work of contemporary designers of clothing and accessories, of leading jewellers,

'Tis The Season To Party & Shine

The nights have drawn in with dark and bitter blights of misery so it's time to draw them out in a festoon of festive shimmer, shine and all things fine. The party season has officially begun so grab a hot coco and dip into our seasonal festive style guide that will transform your RSPV's from maybe to 'hell yes Santa baby!' As we spin into the most sociable time of year, dazzle and twinkle your way through copious cocktail hours in a haze of head-turning adornments, from striking arm candy, fabulous fringing, glamour cocktail gemstones to tantalising shimmers of diamond

Dutch jewellery designer only European finalist in JCK Jewelers’ Choice Awards

Jewelry designer Alice Sunderland was the only European finalist to win a prize at the annual JCK Jewelers’ Choice Awards in the United States. Alice received a ‘silver medal’ in the category ‘Personalized Jewelry’. JCK Jewelers’ Choice Awards is considered to be the leading authority within the jewelry industry when it comes to the best and most innovative jewels. Theirs is one of the largest design contests for jewelry designers within the industry. Alice Sunderland was nominated in the category ‘Personalized Jewelry’ with her famed Calendarring.  This special ring consists of 365 sparkling diamonds, placed in 12 rows. Each diamond

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

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

17 of the Best Jewellery Looks from the 2020 Oscars!

Benchpeg brings you a comprehensive look at some of the best jewellery looks of the red carpet at the 2020 Academy Awards. This year, diamonds dominated the red carpet in all their forms, but especially in necklaces.  After several years in hiding, the statement necklace is back with a bang. Rounded shapes cut close to the neckline were a popular choice, worn by Mindy Kaling, Gal Gadot and Greta Gerwig. Pop culture innovators, such as Billie Eilish, bucked the trend by staking reems of jewellery.  Highlights in 2020 were the vintage jewels from the Cartier archives donned by Timothee Chalamet

New Boutique launched to service ‘responsible and meaningful’ purchases

The launch this week of the new ‘Emerald Studio’ marks a new wave in consumer sensitivity going mainstream. Emerald Studio will cater for discerning clientele who seek not only beauty but also a responsible and meaningful purchase. The newly launched platform which will offer both In-person and online accessibility will showcase one-of-a-kind fine jewellery pieces in 18ct and 22ct gold, with ethically sourced diamonds and precious gems on the menu. Tourmalines, pearls and emeralds, as the signature stone will feature. The Emerald Studio aims to bring together an informed and styled curated selection of jewels that celebrate the best in

Giulia Savino: Which city belongs to you?

Giulia Savino’s main artistic research explores the concept of identity, ownership and belonging through the representation of city maps writes Ilaria Ruggiero. Giulia Savino’s main artistic research explores the concept of identity, ownership and belonging through the representation of city maps. Her main body of work, called 1: 20.000, is a compilation of maps, a collection of cities in form of jewels. As "the map is not the territory" but just one of the many possible representations of reality, each jewel is a personal interpretation of the city that takes / loses its shape in the interaction with the body. Each

Annamaria Zanella. Between Matter and Color

Annamaria Zanella.: Between Matter and Color Oratorio San Rocco, Padua, Italy Until July 14 Promoted by the Department of Culture of the Municipality of Padua and realized with the contribution of the Cassa di Risparmio di Padova and Rovigo Foundation, the exhibition, curated by Mirella Cisotto Nalon, pays tribute to one of the most complete artists of the contemporary jewellery scene, retracing the milestones of her work through a hundred jewels on display. Annamaria Zanella.:  Between Matter and Color Until July 14 Oratorio San Rocco Via Santa Lucia Padua Italy Hours: 9,30 – 12,30 / 15,30 – 19,00 Free entrance padovacultura.padovanet.it

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

Annamaria Zanella: Between Matter and Color

The anthological exhibition ‘ Annamaria Zanella. Between Matter and Color ’ has been extended until 14 July at the San Rocco Oratory in Padua writes Ilaria Ruggiero. Promoted by the Department of Culture of the Municipality of Padua and realized with the contribution of the Cassa di Risparmio di Padova and Rovigo Foundation, the exhibition, curated by Mirella Cisotto Nalon, pays tribute to one of the most complete artists of the contemporary jewellery scene, retracing the milestones of her work through a hundred jewels on display. Born within the Paduan goldsmith's school, Zanella quickly moved towards structurally complex forms extensively experimenting

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

Bvlgari’s high jewellery collection ‘Festa’

Bulgari’s summer orientated ‘Festa’ collection is centred around the joy of Italian art de vivre where the Maison have brought together over 100 jewels and high end watches especially created for the collection, that is a homage to the “sense of pure happiness of the Italian Festas”. First launched in June 2017, the collection was presented in Venice, the home town of two Festas which are internationally renowned: the legendary Carnival and the Regatta Storica. The inspiration of the collection steams from Italian life itself - Italy has always been renowned for its spirit of joy, happiness and celebration. Whether

Style Buzz: Bejewelled Bugs

Something has been buzzing around at the back of the fashion world for some while now, creeping slowly towards the limelight ready to make a style strike. Arrange a line of spiders, beetles, ladybirds and other multiple-legged bugs and just about anyone would squirm with discomfort and unease. Yet somehow, arrange the same little critters moulded and shaped in brass, silver, jewels and crystals and they suddenly become far more alluring and compelling. Gold glittered ladybirds and dragonflies may have adorned your headbands and pencil cases as a young girl but fast forward a few years and they're flying back

Fei Liu’s IJL Sales Up 15% for 2018

Fei Liu Fine Jewellery’s new Magnolia collection proves a success as the brand sees a 15% increase in sales from IJL 2017. During the three-day event, the British brand opened new accounts and increased sales by 15%. Fei Liu Fine Jewellery launched their new silver ‘Magnolia’ collection, which continued the designer brand’s offering of luxury jewels at an accessible price. Magnolia proved a success – due to its three-times margin – with 95% of orders including the complete collection. The cost of the six-piece collection totals to an attractive £270+ VAT. The designs are adorned with the cat’s eye gemstone,

#SheDressedMe campaign takes off ahead of UK Jewellery Awards

Guests at the UK Jewellery Awards will get the full paparazzi treatment next week after more than 20 designers signed up for the #SheDressedMe campaign and offered their jewels to ticket holders wanting to 'borrow' a bit of extra dazzle. The #SheDressedMe campaign, launched recently by the Women’s Jewellery Network (WJN),  has attracted the support of a wide range of female jewellers, all prepared to loan out pieces to be worn on the red carpet to gain industry and general media exposure. They include Rachel Galley; Roseanna Croft; Judith Peterhoff Jewellery; Michelle Tuck Jewellery; Shen London; Mona Pink; Domino; Gecko;

Bejewelled: Badges, Brotherhood and Identity

Bejewelled: Badges, Brotherhood and Identity The Library and Museum of Freemasonry presents Bejewelled: Badges, Brotherhood and Identity By wearing badges we can connect with one another and reveal something about ourselves. With their unique symbols and hidden meanings, Bejewelled: Badges, Brotherhood and Identity features over 150 stunning examples of masonic badges referred to as ‘jewels’. It is the largest public display of its kind ever staged in the UK. Including jewels from around the world, the exhibition sheds light on a long and celebrated tradition. Examples like the Egyptian-inspired Authors’ Lodge jewel and delightful Barraclough Plate jewel tell the story

Playful Elegance

Anne Manns has a special fondness for creating jewels to decorate the ears. Her earrings, inspired by nature and especially by vegetables such as peas and aubergines, are characterised by a very clean, bright and warm design, able to climb up the skin with a unique lightness and portability writes Ilaria Ruggiero. An elegant touch characterises her creations, that are developed for one of the most sensual and feminine parts of the body.  Not only elegance and brightness, but also irony, playfulness and freshness. Using vegetables as a source of inspiration allows her to always maintain a language which is mobile, down-to-earth earth and everyday.

Jewellery fashion will be futuristic, multi-cultural and celebrate the power of nature in SS/20, says IJL

International Jewellery London reveals 6 jewellery trends for SS/20 IJL trends editors and jewellery expert, Paola De Luca, has outlined six key jewellery trend themes for Spring-Summer 2020 for International Jewellery London (IJL), the UK’s leading trade event for the international jewellery industry. Her vision includes authentic designs that subvert deep-rooted stereotypes with gender, touches on societal pressure with minimalism and brings to life an organic amalgamation of nineteenth century deco with nature; all the while toying with abstract shapes, futuristic expression and dark jewels. These will be showcased on IJL’s SS20 Trends Catwalk where Paola will present her detailed

Q&A: Stephen M Goldsmith FIPG MBGG

Stephen M Goldsmith FIPG MNGG KCHS is a precious metal polisher of high repute having worked in some of the most prestigious jewellery houses in the country. With some 45 years of experience as a craftsman in the jewellery and silversmithing industry, a former employee of the crown jewellers he has even worked in the Tower of London on the Crown Jewels. Starting out on a pre-apprentice course at Rochester, and then an apprenticeship, he can now be safely described as a Master Craftsman, and has just has his first book published, ‘Polishing and Finishing for Jewellers and Silversmiths’ which [youtube

Jewelry in a Duet

Laura Volpi’s work is a synthesis of energy, research and matter that takes shape through the elaboration of visual stimuli from our contemporaneity, to create jewels that reveal each a different part of her creative storytelling. She conducts an accurate study of volume and a research of the sculptural shape, to create a jewel that explores the boundaries of movement in a wearable dimension writes Ilaria Ruggiero. She was first influenced by Davide De Paoli, who initiated her to the potentialities of plate sculpture, and by Arnaldo Pomodoro, whom she could meet through a scholarship. During the collaboration with Pomodoro, which

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

Stylish Aromatherapy at your fingertips

With a world focused on revolutionising health, wellbeing and lifestyle antidotes, it was only a matter of time before our strive for balanced health was intermingled with the jewels we wear. Carefully designed to enjoy the benefits of wellbeing remedies whilst still remaining sleek, chic and elegant, aromatherapy jewellery is taking the spotlight in innovative creativity. Niche Jewellery designers are tapping into the growing trend of therapeutic jewellery that combines the healing properties of gemstones and essential oils. It is thought that elements from nature can help realign our vibrational energies to help aid healing of health, chakras and energy

Into The Blue

With Spring flourishing just around the corner, it's no doubt that the jewellery world is gearing up for a facelift of fresh trends and ideas. The one thing we can be sure of is that fresh and beautiful colours of the sea.  Fine jewellery collections are awash with an abundance of blue this season from deep royal cobalt, rich teal jewels to bright and zesty turquoise tones. Adding a touch of fresh bijoux provides an easy and stylish way of updating your look - without needing a complete overhaul!   From dainty pendant necklaces, loud cocktail rings to daring bold

Chaumet’s new ‘Garden of Earthly Delights’

The maison’s latest pieces celebrate nature in all its forms writes Jodie Smith. The French maison was founded in 1780, in Paris, and its prestige was quickly certified when they became the official jeweller to Empress Josephine. In the 235 year history of the brand, Chaumet has been faithful to its natural inspiration, with numerous iterations of this theme. In this new series of pieces, Chaumet celebrates flora and fauna with a whole host of jewellery designs, including captivating brooches and cocktail rings which are perfect for occasionwear. These latest jewels vary wildly between the traditional, vintage style brooches of the

Met Gala Extravagance

Whilst it came with some controversial murmurs, it's without question that this year's Met Gala theme of 'Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination' provided a night of jaw-dropping celestial charm. Celebrating an ornate sector of religious art, guests of the Gala pulled out all the stops with big-time ornamentation which left a sea of dramatic and decadent jewellery to admire. From oversized rings to ornate drop earrings, guests upped their ante with subtle and chic references to depictions of renaissance saints and deities. Wrapped strands of oversized jewels, bejewelled headpieces, tiaras and crystal-crystal-encrusted religious crosses and rosaries adorned the

Suri Jewelry: Memories from Renaissance

The women painted by the great Venetian Masters wear jewelry and precious stones, fabrics from the East, embraced by smoky atmospheres of incense and fragrances writes Ilaria Ruggiero. Since childhood Giulia Vecchiato admired the jewels of the eccentric ladies who live in Venice, as they were amulets to access the past and ancient times. She started very little to build her own jewelry by assembling scrap metal found in her house, seals, scraps of fabrics mounted on curtains’ pendant. Growing up and studing traditional techniques of goldsmith, she started her own journey into the jewelry field, by developing a very

Beyoncé Donates Papillon Ring to V&A

The V&A have announced that they have received the gift of a ‘G’ Papillon ring, generously donated by Beyoncé Knowles. The Papillon ring will be on display in the William and Judith Bollinger Jewellery Gallery from 11 May 11th 2018, alongside jewels associated with some of history’s most notable women including Elizabeth I, Catherine the Great and the Empress Josephine. Jewellery Curator Richard Edgecrumbe said: “Beyoncé is a figure whose personal style the V&A is proud to represent, and a gift from whose personal collection we are honoured to receive. The papillon ring she has gifted is an exquisite example

Ananya Releases 'Mogra' Collection, inspired by the Jasmine Blossom

Jasmine is the national flower of no less than six countries. Renowned for it's symbolism in culture and religion, the jasmine blossom is a emblem of unity and divine hope; especially throughout India.  Often conceptually rooted in Indian spirituality, it's no surprise then that Ananya's new collection explores and honours the humble jasmine blossom. The woman behind the eponymous brand spent time in workshops all over India, studying indigenous jewellery making traditions, and  collaborated with one of India’s leading jewellery houses, Amrapali. Continuing her exploration of jewels and gemmology with a GG at the GIA, it's easy to see these

Ethical message hitting home at Fair Luxury Presents....

Raising awareness over how luxury jewels are sourced and crafted has been the focus of ‘Fair Luxury Presents....’ at the Goldsmith's Centre in London and with two weeks still to go, the ethical message is resonating with increasing force, according to designer exhibitors. Just 13 exhibitors, all of them influential and vocal in combining provenance, ethics and responsible business practice with stunning design and craftsmanship have been engaged in conversations with a variety of audiences from consumers to journalists to artisan craft campaigners National Geographic among others. Although it is a selling exhibition, the emphasis has been fixed firmly on

Resonance Catherine Martin at The Scottish Gallery

Resonance - Catherine Martin The Scottish Gallery 2 August - 1 September 2018 The Scottish Gallery welcomes back Catherine Martin for the Edinburgh Art Festival 2018. Designer-goldsmith Catherine Martin was the first ever westerner to graduate in Kumihimo – the ancient Japanese art of braiding. She later developed the Asian art into a painstaking weaving of fine gold wire by hand. The resulting silken jewels are breathtaking in their sensual play of light and form. As a professional musician and singer, Martin allows the fluidity of music to influence her pieces. Each design element flows with finesse from her instinctive

Morley & ACJ Jewellery Lecture Series: A Woman’s Work Is Never Done by Joanne Haywood

Morley & ACJ Jewellery Lecture Series: A Woman’s Work Is Never Done by Joanne Haywood Designed and created by  Joanne Haywood , ‘A Woman’s Work is Never Done’ is a series of twenty-one jewellery works made for fifteen trailblazing women. Come and hear about the materials and techniques used to make these mixed media jewels, as well as the pioneering women that inspired them. Joanne Haywood  is a leading art jeweller, writer and educator. She has worked and exhibited in the UK and internationally. She holds a BA(hons) in Jewellery Design from Central Saint Martins and is recognised for her individual voice

Chills, Shrills & Thrills

Are you ready for a weekend of mischievous, dark and wildly extravagant dress-up guaranteed to make one heart-stopping entrance of smouldering style?   Halloween night is looming which is why d esigners have been slowly unfurling their collections dripping in dark demure, grandeur and sultry sensualism.    With glimmers of sexy r omanticism and hints of gothic tradition, nail your look from the dark side with single statement pieces encrusted with bold baroque designs, multi-layered mixed metals and rich jewels. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of winter gothic charm and spirit and take a look at our treasure trove of bewitching

The 2018 Trends Edit: Pearl Revamp

For 2018 there could only be one word to describe the resounding theme of jewellery trends: Big. With big hoops, big jewels, big designs and big logos, it's no surprise that the spotlight is also shining loud and proud on big pearls! Femininity is the buzz word for 2018 with a resurgence of vintage-style florals, summer gingham and plaid as well as mix n'match power pastels. Pearls are back with a punch and nothing says feminine quite like pearls. A fabulous addition to any outfit, pearls are notoriously met with hesitation due to their associations with prim afternoon teas worn

De Vroomen: Harmony in Colour and Form

De Vroomen: Harmony in Colour and Form The Goldsmiths’ Company is delighted to present  De Vroomen: Harmony in Colour and Form,  a celebration of five decades of artistic collaboration between renowned husband and wife team, Dutch goldsmith Leo de Vroomen and British jewellery designer and artist Ginnie de Vroomen. The showcase brings together over 100 pieces of De Vroomen jewels, sketches reflecting the creative process, as well as Ginnie’s vivid paintings inspired by nature and the urban landscape. In essence, bold, sophisticated jewellery with flowing lines is placed in conversation with polychromatic abstract art.  When Leo and Ginnie started working together in the early 70s, they developed

Christmas Shine with Andrew Geoghegan

Yet again Andrew Geoghegan has presented the luxury consumer with a well heeled choice of delectable jewels this Christmas. The designer has curated his collections to provide a seasonal choice for the most magical time of year. For the cocktail season his flamboyant ode to Versailles, the Chapiteau Paraiba, with its lavish flurry of pink sapphires, aquamarines and pristine diamonds with a distinctive hexagonal setting is the hero piece of the hour.  The Clair de Lune ring with a unique shape, playfully tricking the eye, allows light to bounce from every facet. Set with white diamonds, sapphires, chocolate coloured diamonds or

Fair Luxury x Ethical Metalsmiths

Fair Luxury x Ethical Metalsmiths Monday 4th November 5pm (Gmt) 12pm (Est) London / Zoom Following the success of our last Open House together, Ethical Metalsmiths (EM) and Fair Luxury have teamed up again. The Ethical Metalsmiths team plans to share some highlights of work in progress and aspirations for the future!  Highlights include awesome updates from EM's Education Committee, Action Coalition, and so much more! We're looking forward to a lively discussion. Fair Luxury and Ethical Metalsmiths share many common goals and dreams for our industry - we hope you will join the conversation. This will be an interactive meeting, so feel free to

Desire Jewellery and Silversmithing Fair 2018

Desire Jewellery & Silversmithing Fair Kensington Town Hall, London 2nd - 4th March 2018 The Desire Fair at  Kensington Town Hall, London  will be open as planned across all days despite the unusual weather. Should this change for any reason the event will announce this on their  Facebook page  so do be sure to ‘like’ the page to stay updated. The next Desire Jewellery & Silversmithing Fair will take place at  Kensington Town Hall, London  from Friday 2nd to Sunday 4th March 2018. We regularly rotate exhibitors, which makes annual repeat visits a must, so that you can keep up with the

A Tale of Two Spaces

A Tale of Two Spaces - DDS x DSS Dundee’s Double Door Studios (DDS) and Dock Street Studios (DSS) are working together to celebrate and showcase the work of each group with a collaborative event held in July 2022. Sometimes confused with each other, the two studios want to tell people about what they do, how they work and what they make. The event series will begin on the 9th and 10th July across three locations - Double Door Studios  on Ward Road, Dock Street Studios along from Malmaison Hotel, and a stall at the Overgate  Shopping Centre bridging both

BeCraft exhibits at Eleven Steens

OBJECT SYNONYMS 24.02.2022 → 10.04.2022 The currents pass, evolve. Always, artists immerse themselves in what has been.  They reformulate, look differently, offer a "what seems" but which is no longer – or which is, different.  They rethink, recycle, divert, ennoble. This is where the power of contemporary applied arts lies.  Bathed in the – distant – roots of the functional, the artists free themselves from it or draw inspiration from it to perfect the world, to question it, to challenge it.  Through the diversity of materials, techniques, and the rich heritage of arts and crafts, it is a vast and constantly

Pantone Colour Of The Year 2022

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

Pearls - A Practical Guide ​by Wendy Graham

Pearls - A Practical Guide by Wendy Graham Pearls are one of the oldest precious gemstones.  They have been revered through history and the best reserved to adorn royalty and their favourites.  Now, with the arrival of freshwater pearls, they are available to suit every pocket and every style, from the classic to the most creative.   Includes a guide to the types of pearl and to the farming process.  Gives advice on buying pearls; what to look for and what to avoid.  Gives instruction on working with pearls, including drilling, setting and knotting.  Finally, there is information on South Sea,

Q&A: Max Danger

Max Danger is a Danish born Jewellery Designer and craftsman, a self confessed gold obsessive, who has a reputation for innovative and striking pieces of bespoke jewellery. He answers the Benchpeg Q&A. What’s your name, and what do you for a living? MD: Max Danger, I'm a bespoke jeweller and part time Jewellery Technician at the London College of Fashion. How did you come to work in the jewellery industry? MD: I went on a half year jewellery course at technical college in Copenhagen. During my time there I realized that this was what I wanted to do.  Afterwards I applied

Yellow Bright Lights

After what can only be described as one down-right glorious May bank holiday weekend, It's safe to say that Britain has been swept away by a wave of happiness. Summertime happiness feels just that little bit more special and sentimental when basking in the warmth of the sun. It seems only fitting that with this sudden burst of blazing heat and pimms by the bucketload that we tailor our jewellery game to the occasion. When you think of summer, happiness and positivity, what colour instantly comes to mind...? Why Juicy lemon yellows and citrus bursts of canary brights of course!

Ask the Professionals, The Sorting Office

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

The New Trend: 3D Scanning for Jewellery

Imagine being able to copy anything in perfect detail at the touch of a button. Only ten years ago this would just have been merely a pipe dream. Now the dream has become reality. David Valle of Gala Creations takes us through what you need to know about 3D scanning and its every day uses for the jewellery industry. What is 3D scanning? 3D scanning is the technology used to digitalize any small object, including any type of jewellery, wax and gemstone. 3D scanners work by shining different patterns and intensities of light onto an object to be scanned. Then, a built-in

The New Trend: 3D Scanning for Jewellery

Imagine being able to copy anything in perfect detail at the touch of a button. Only ten years ago this would just have been merely a pipe dream. Now the dream has become reality. David Valle of Gala Creations takes us through what you need to know about 3D scanning and its every day uses for the jewellery industry. What is 3D scanning? 3D scanning is the technology used to digitalize any small object, including any type of jewellery, wax and gemstone. 3D scanners work by shining different patterns and intensities of light onto an object to be scanned. Then, a built-in

Saloukee Reveals A New Season Look

It's been many months in the making and this August Saloukee are excited to finally share their recent labour of love. Welcome to the new and exciting website of jewellery brand Saloukee!  Keen to share the love, devotion and carefully curated design behind the newly crafted site, Saloukee are passionate to connect with their customers through beautiful aesthetics, see what they think of the brands' new direction and would love any feedback on certain elements that you as customers would like to see! Get involved with the latest activity of the brand by taking a sneakpeak at what's been happening

Ortwin Thyssen Unviels Competition Winner 2016

To celebrate his shop’s 10-year anniversary, King’s Mile jeweller, Ortwin Thyssen set his makers a challenge; to design and craft a piece of jewellery of their own inspiration using traditional artisan methods. The pieces were displayed during September and the public were invited to vote, alongside industry professionals, on their favourite piece. “What you see here is the result of a challenge that every artist faces, the challenge to make ‘what you feel is right’” explained Ortwin during his presentation speech at the competition awards evening, held in the intimate surroundings of the Lilford Gallery in Canterbury. After achieving the

Amanda Mansell Unviels Striking New Piece

Jeweller Amanda Mansell has unveiled a new jewellery piece at Goldsmiths' Fair this week to accompany her iconic Concentric Ring. “Jewellery goes beyond the aesthetic. How a piece looks is important but it's more than that. Jewellery captures stories and moments in time. It's a lasting testament to the craftsmanship required just to bring a design to life. It's how it feels and what it means. This is what's important…” -Amanda Mansell Amanda was thrilled to be selected for a second consecutive year after her debut last year when her Concentric Ring featured on the flyer and poster for the

Handcrafted Wire Findings

Price: £16:54 Why spend hundreds of dollars stocking up on expensive manufactured clasps, jump rings, ear wires, bails, and much more when you can get exactly what you need for a fraction of the cost? Why spend hundreds of dollars stocking up on expensive manufactured clasps, jump rings, ear wires, bails, and much more when you can get exactly what you need for a fraction of the cost? With Handcrafted Wire Findings you can learn how to make all of these things and more with your choice of materials. From sterling silver, fine silver,

FORGE London Craft Week events!

FORGE London Craft Week events! London Craft Week is 13th - 19th May Immerse yourself in the world of Jewellery at FORGE with a jam-packed array of exclusive events. London Craft Week at FORGE promises an unforgettable experience for passionate learners, enthusiasts, and jewellery lovers alike. LEARN, MAKE, BUY at FORGE. -LEARN- Skills Demo Day Discover the skills behind creating beautiful jewels. Our expert jewellery-makers will be demonstrating a broad range of specialist techniques, from granulation to stone-setting Tuesday 14 May 10.30am-1pm & 1.30pm - 4pm FREE More details & register  here Panel Discussion. Enriching Lives through Creativity: The Power of Makerspaces  

'Vision & Virtuosity' the Tiffany & Co Exhibition

Tiffany & Co.’s “Vision & Virtuosity” Exhibition Announced in London featuring an Extraordinary Display of Jewels, Craftsmanship and Creativity Marking Tiffany and Co.’s 150th anniversary in London, “Vision & Virtuosity” debuts at the Saatchi G allery, located in the Duke of York’s headquarters near Sloane Square, from 10th June – 19th August, 2022. Complimentary tickets are available from 2nd May through the Tiffany & Co. exhibition app where you can also discover exhibition highlights, exclusive content and more. Marking Tiffany and Co.’s 150 th  anniversary in London, “Vision & Virtuosity”, an astounding exhibition from this iconic jeweller, debuts at the Saatchi Gallery, London, from

Ethical Gem Fair Tucson 2025

Ethical Gem Fair Tucson 1 - 4 February 2025 Tucson, USA 9am till 6pm daily The Destination for Responsibly Sourced Gemstones from around the World A collaborative partnership of leading responsibly sourced gemstone suppliers Ian Bone/Heather Blake (Capricorn Gems), Stuart Pool (Nineteen48/Moyo Gems), Monica Stephenson (ANZA Gems/Moyo Gems), Jay Moncada (Perpetuum Jewels), Brian Cook/Quendi Cook (Nature's Geometry/Quore), Hewan Zewdi (Agere Treasures), Eric Braunwart/Natasha Braunwart (Columbia Gem House) and Susan Wheeler/Jessica Hudson (Virtu Gems) will gather in Tucson from the 1st to the 4th February 2025 tucsongemshow101.com/ethical-gem-fair

Shine

Shine 18 September - 20 December 2024 The Goldsmiths Centre, London The Goldsmiths’ Centre’s Shine showcase returns with dazzling line-up of new talented jewellers and silversmiths Shine 2024, the annual new talent showcase in jewellery and silversmithing, returns to the Goldsmiths’ Centre in London on 18 September 2024 with an evening pop-up event, a free exhibition until Christmas 2024 and online at  goldsmiths-shop-talent.org   Explore and shop handcrafted work by sixteen emerging makers: Alice Biolo, Charlotte Smith, Clare Maiden (Clare Maiden Jewellery), Emma Lawrence (Spangle Fandango), Gillian Finlay, Inca Starzinsky, Kayla Rimmon & Chloë Woodmansterne (Aril Jewels), Kumiko Kihara (Field of

First ever online Goldsmiths' Fair opened by Prince Charles

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

Donald Friedlich: The Glass Alchemist

Donald Friedlich can be called a glass alchemist. Fascinated by its chemical, material and aesthetic properties, he has dedicated the last twenty years of his artistic research to the discovery and exploration of this material, so elusive and challenging writes Ilaria Ruggiero. Among the many achievements, in 2003 he was the first jeweller to be an Artist in Residence at The Studio of the Corning Museum of Glass. In 2004 Friedlich was a featured speaker at an international jewellery conference in Melbourne, Australia and an Artist in Residence in both the Glass and Goldsmithing Programs of Canberra School of Art at

The '90s Chunky Chain Trend is Back

Fancy yourself as a bit of a maximalist when it comes to your accessories? The trends circulating this autumn/winter are varied, vast and everything in between so if you want to be a total show-off this season then chunky chains is a trend to tap into for some statement-making silhouettes! Oversized chain-link jewellery is on the fashion trajectory left, right and centre with the likes of Stella McCartney, Alberta Ferretti, Loewe and even Chloe crafting their collections with unmissable chain links. With a mix and match of textures, finishes, metals and design, there was one element that connected them all:

Preciousness Beyond Stones

It is usually thought that the preciousness of a jewel lies in the preciousness of the materials or the stones that have made it... but experimentation in the field of jewellery research and design is instead expanding the boundaries of preciousness in an incredible way, including the combination of more and more alternative materials which are not directly associated with traditional jewellery writes Ilaria Ruggiero. Lodovica Fusco, Italian designer and founder of the COLLANEvrosi brand, for example, in her Sea Bed collection aims at representing the seabed in summer and the creatures to be found there; so that shapes, materials and

Cloudy - Mah Rana

Gallery S O is very pleased to announce a solo exhibition of new work by jewellery artist Mah Rana. The brooches on display are a visual and material exploration on the theme of clouds, and the transient nature of our moods and perceptions. The show will also include a film concerned with the personal connections to the jewellery we wear, edited by Andreea Bogdan. The film is part of a Meanings and Attachments commission by the Crafts Council for the Acts of Making Festival in 2015. Meanings and Attachments (2002- ongoing) is a worldwide series of public-participation events that so

Wrap it Up , Studio Fusion Gallery - London

Christmas is such a special time of year and knowing that, we at Studio Fusion Gallery are again presenting an exciting and diverse collection of jewellery and objects for you to choose from. So for something from the accessibly priced to a unique collectable, look no further than this curated selection showing design, originality and skill. From the decorative to the functional, in a variety of materials from leather to gold, we are sure that you’ll be able to find that perfect gift amongst the work from some of the top designers in the country. And if you want a

Galerie Marzee - Summer Exhibitions

Galerie Marzee Exhibitions: Lisa Walker, Eva Jünger, Margit Jäschke & Pedro Sequeira From 26 May 2024 Nijmegen, Netherlands Galerie Marzee opens three new exhibitions: Lisa Walker (NZ), Eva Jünger (D), Margit Jäschke (D) and Pedro Sequeira (PT) Lisa Walker and Eva Jünger Iconoclastic, intuitive and impetuous, Lisa Walker challenges traditional notions about jewellery and questions what it is and what it can be. With an open yet rigorous approach, she works with found objects, precious materials, abandoned bits and bobs, combining and transforming them to create jewellery that questions its very nature, reconsiders its own answers and explores relationships to

Jacobs the Jewellers starts 70th anniversary

2018 marks the 70th anniversary of Reading’s oldest independent family run jewellers founding. Jacobs’ 2018 anniversary centres around the ambitious goal of raising £70,000 for the Royal Berkshire Hospital Charity, specifically the Berkshire Cancer Centre in what is also the NHS’s 70th anniversary year.   70 for 70: raising £70,000 for the Royal Berkshire Hospital in their 70th year 2018 marks the 70th anniversary of Reading’s oldest independent family run jewellers founding. Jacobs’ 2018 anniversary centres around the ambitious goal of raising £70,000 for the Royal Berkshire Hospital Charity, specifically the Berkshire Cancer Centre in what is also the NHS’s 70th anniversary year.   Jacobs has kicked off 2018 in dazzling form, launching the first three innovative

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

Sweet Ceramic Jewellery with Rebecca Wilson

It’s that time of Year when resolutions are rife, and many of us try, successfully or not so much, to give up our vices. The good news is, if you’re craving sugar, you’re in for a treat. Rebecca Wilson is a ceramicist who is venturing into jewellery, her whimsical designs are sugar-spun into cool confectionary.  Living and working near Edinburgh and Scotland, Rebecca comes from a background in ceramics and has recently introduced jewellery and wearables to her collection. She has exhibited extensively in the UK and abroad, most notably at COLLECT in the Saatchi Gallery, London, SOFA in Chicago,

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair 2024

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair  17 - 20 October 2024 Victoria Baths, Manchester Plans for this October’s Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair – our 17th no less – are ramping up. We’ve got lots of exciting new content for you and over 200 makers to browse and buy from, including the best of our regular exhibitors and many new makers joining us for the first time.  Our exhibitor line up is now up on our website so have a browse and start saving! Tickets will go on sale in late July. GNCCF has always been the best place in the

FORGE 16x Launch Events in February

FORGE 16x launch Events, Talks and Workshops 59 Leather Lane, LondonEC1N 7TJ 9 - 28 Febraury 2023 Join us for a fortnight of events to celebrate the long awaited launch of FORGE! There are an array of events to suit practicing artisans, general public or both! Places are limed so book to reserve your space online. About FORGE will be hosting a fortnight of events, talks & workshops.  At our LEARN-TO workshops you can learn wax carving, laser welding, collet making, gem illustration & more! Our events & talks include Stone carving with Sanni Falkenberg, Brilliant Bingo with Kerry Gregory

Freelance Jewellery / CAD Senior Designer

Freelance Jewellery / CAD Senior Designer As a Senior CAD Designer, I have a background in bench working and handmade jewellery design, which means I fully appreciate the intricacies of creating jewellery.  I am experienced in creating and preparing designs for all types of rings, settings, earrings, brooches, bangles and pendants.  I specialise in designing bespoke jewellery for designers, jewellers and manufacturers, which means I know how a CAD design must be developed in order to succeed and flourish during the next phases of manufacture.  Preparation and planning always pays off during the prototyping and casting phases, so my thorough

Available for Outwork

I am a fully qualified Goldsmith of thirty two years looking for any outwork available.  I currently undertake a number of shops work in the historic Brighton Lanes and many others around the UK, This has included anything from silver sizings to high end diamond pieces - including work for some celebrities and Vogue magazine. I have also twenty years laser welding experience and can offer this service with any work. I am based in Brighton and currently post and personally collect work from companies so I can fit into your requirements. My main services are ring sizing, chain repairs,

UK Ethical Gem Fair

UK Ethical Gem Fair Monday 16th and Tuesday 17th January FORGE, 59 Leather Lane, London, EC1N 7TJ On Monday 16th and Tuesday 17th January, Nineteen48 is joining with Fair Trade Gemstones and Gemstones Brazil to host our first ethical gem fair of 2023 at FORGE, the brand-new creative hub and retail space in Hatton Garden, London. The event will run from 10am to 5pm on both days. It's free to attend, but please email us to register in advance, so that we know you're coming. Kathy Chappell (Fair Trade Gemstones) -  kathy@fairtrade-gemstone.com Stuart Pool (Nineteen48) -  stuart@nineteen48.com Maira Toledo (Gemstones

Ashley Banjo Dons World’s Most Expensive 18ct Gold Peperami Necklace

Forget diamonds – the world’s most expensive Peperami has been unveiled, worth an eye-watering £1,500. The luxury item takes inspiration from the snack’s Original wrapper, replicating the same shape and design the nation know and love - but in 18ct yellow gold. Appraised by an independent valuator, the one-of-a-kind piece sees the Peperami detachable wrapper dangle from a 34inch heavy chain. Weighing in at a whopping 295g, the custom necklace has been specifically designed so fans can refill the gold-plated pendant with their beloved Peperami stick, allowing them to hang the snack-storing chain around their neck until hunger strikes. Hoping

Sweet Sentiments in Dior's Latest Fine Jewellery Collections

Signs, symbols and icons reside at the very heart of the Dior brand. In her collections, Victoire de Castellane revisits some of those most precious to the man who started a fashion revolution. The story of Dior begins with a star and a “yes”, so the story goes… …While walking up the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Christian Dior hit his foot on an object on the ground and almost tripped, as though it was the object itself that wished to attract his attention. Christian Dior leaned over and picked up the object that had nearly made him fall over: it [youtube

Shine Bright this November

November has well and truly tumbled onto the scene, bringing with her some nippy winds, torrential rain flurries and a bleak scene outside our windows. As the weather outside cools down, it's that time of year when our winter diaries heat up with a whole host of festive soirees and glitzy parties.  There's no better time of year to open up the box of all things glitzy, bejewelled and oh so sparkly! With designers taking inspiration from all things glamourous and kitsch, party season is about to turn up the heat with the beautiful plethora of beguiling and eye-grabbing pieces

Luxury Institute: The Three Skills Of Luxury Customer Experience In The Digital Age

In the Luxury Institite's second July white paper, they challenge luxury executives and brands to step up and lead advanced personalization in the digital age. To do so, they believe that it requires mastery of three critical skills: personal data expertise, AI expertise, and emotional intelligence expertise. Luxury executives and brands that fail to master this triad of critical skills will be marginalized, or worse. This is a challenge worthy of the luxury goods and services industry. Most brands in the luxury goods and services industry were late to the last decade’s digital transformation party. Others are resting easy because

Benchpeg turns 15 in Lockdown

We’ve been so busy that we forgot that we recently should have celebrated our birthday! It is very hard to believe, for us, that we turned 15 at the beginning of this month. 15 years ago, when ecommerce was very limited, websites were non-responsive and social media hadn’t really got started in the way that we know it nowadays, we created Benchpeg to help democratise information for the sector and get it to those that needed the information most – micro and SME businesses within the jewellery industry. We’re extremely proud that we were the first digital newsletter in the

FORGE Celebrates One Year Anniversary

FORGE, Jewellery Hub in Leather Lane, Celebrates their First Birthday with Champagne, Reflections and Announcements On Thursday 8th February, FORGE celebrated it’s one-year anniversary with a spectacular party. Annie Warburton, on her first public engagement as CEO and Clerk of The Goldsmiths’ Company, gave opening remarks congratulating FORGE Founder, Amanda Mansell, on her achievements so far. “Amanda, you are one of the many inspiring, gutsy, entrepreneurs who are breathing new life and new ideas into our trade, into our craft, into our art, into our industry. You had a vision you had an idea and you have passion, a passion

A fond farewell to friend and colleague Tam Savill

T erry Hunt, Chair of the Association for Contemporary Jewellery, remembers our friend and colleague Tam Savill. In 2010, in a lunch-hour at the School of Jewellery, I had a visit from Tam. This was the first time we’d met, and therefore my first experience of her “people-persuasion” skills. By the end of the lunch break I suddenly found myself, a lapsed founder-member of the Association, its new chair! And the rest, as the saying goes, is history. A rich and fulfilling time for the ACJ, with Tam achieving so many of her aspirational and bold projects – work that she

Fair Luxury Open House: Packaging

Fair Luxury Open House: Packaging  Creating that perfect sustainable unboxing experience We’ve dedicated this Fair Luxury Open House to a topic which we know a lot of our community struggle with. You’ve created your dream ring with certified gold, gone out of the way to only use the best responsibly sourced gemstones but the box this comes in will be the first sight that your client has. You want their unboxing moment to be as magic as your ring but not at a cost to people and planet. During this open house session we’ll be exploring why it is so

Giovanni Corvaja Talk, Sarabande Foundation

Inspiration Series | Giovanni Corvaja in conversation with Russell Cassleton Elliot Sarabande Foundation, London 5 November 2019 Turning gold into fibre and building a Laboratory High Vacuum Chamber in his studio; Giovanni Corvaja may as well be dubbed the Jesus of Fine Jewellery. Bringing novel and bewildering approaches to his craft and the world of jewellery, and adding 'inventor' and 'innovator' to his extensive list of accolades, Giovanni will be joined by Russell Cassleton Elliot.   A truly fascinating and inspirational conversation awaits you all - tickets are limited so don't miss out! Not many can say they’ve mastered the art

Spring Fair 2024

Spring Fair 2024 NEC Birmingham 4 - 7 February 2024 As the UK's most popular and diverse marketplace for Home, Gift, Fashion and Everyday products, Spring Fair brings the people of the retail industry together so they can discover the latest products and trends. Join this season’s show and find products your customers will love! Explore thousands of products from the most innovative exhibitors in the industry. As THE sourcing destination for the retail industry, Spring Fair showcases the latest products and gives you insight into current retail trends, whatever sector you're in. With both new and trusted exhibitors projected to visit this

Government Announces ‘Calls For Views’ For Design & Intellectual Property

Once in a Decade Opportunity for Designers to Influence Design Law Reform “From iconic to everyday design is all around us, improving our lives, providing solutions. Design Matters!” ACID Ambassador Sebastian Conran Following their recent survey on the Designs Framework, the IPO have now also announced a major Call for Views on Design and IP, which is long overdue to support an important UK sector that is a USP on a world stage so eloquently communicated by Danny Boyle in the 2012 London Olympics. Design is a national and international asset for Great Britain and is also an impressive export

Experience the magic of a Jewellery Quarter Christmas from home!

With over 50 participating businesses, this year’s Christmas Window Trail was set to turn Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter into a true winter wonderland. However, as the country has entered its second national lockdown, they are bringing the magic of the JQ’s streets to you so you don’t miss out on the festive fun!  Browse all the window displays from the comfort of your home and vote for your favourite for a chance to win a JQ Prize Bundle which includes artisanal chocolates, silver earrings, a whisky testing set, vouchers to use in local businesses & more! Vote for your favourite display

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

Procurement Coordinator, Taylor & Hart - Central London WC1

The role Procurement Coordinator  Taylor & Hart Central London WC1 Salary: 28K + 10% performance bonus Overview At Taylor and Hart we are a digital-first engagement ring company. Our "without limits" approach to product design, customer experience and our ethical supply chain has positioned us as one of the most innovative jewellery companies in the last decade. Our workplace is supportive, rewarding and flexible. We celebrate diversity, equality, sustainability and inclusiveness. As we've grown, so too has our product range. We started as a bespoke-only brand, but now our offering includes a wide range of gems and diamonds, set made-to-order

Memories are Made of This

Last week saw the launch of a new exhibition curated by Corinne Julius, journalist, broadcast critic and curator specialising in contemporary craft and design. ‘Memories are Made of This’ showcases 15 makers who made three specific pieces each in response to a provocation arranged by the curator to embody sensations of remembrance. Gallery owner Sarah Myerscough said,  "This is the first jewellery show at the gallery, and we are so intrigued to show work on this personal scale. Wearable sculpture is an important and highly influential aspect of contemporary craft and we are delighted to be able to collaborate with

Freelance Jewellery CAD Designer

I have many years’ experience within the jewellery and silversmithing industry, I am experienced in creating and preparing designs for all types of rings, setting, earrings, brooches, bangles and pendants. I began CAD drawing as part of the design process for creating bespoke pieces for my clients and have moved on to specialising in providing one off designs for jewellers and manufacturers. I also have a volume of past designs available on CG trader. I have experience in the 3D printing and casting process so I am able to offer services outside of the design work if required. Please feel

The 240-hour in the Making 'Snowglobe' Ring

Every story-teller has to contend with the art of world building. None so much as Ben Crocco and the atelier of Dreamboule. Experts at translating dream worlds from imagination to the physical, Dreamboule's 'wearable snowglobe' rings are all about painstaking attention to the most miniscule of details.  The idea was born when founder Ben Crocco observed the way the snowglobes catch and reflect light whilst watching his children playing on a winters evening. This, combined with his expertise in quality watchmaking was the basis for the Dreamboule's rings.  There are four key components in Dreamboules creations: the Sapphire Cabochon, the

Winner Of The Hand Engraved Card Competition 2021 Announced

Working together for the first time, the Hand Engravers Association and Baddeley Brothers are proud to declare the winner of their inaugural greeting card competition. A skill so rare that there was recently only a handful of craftsmen left, has been given a boost by workshops and competitions that have brought the ancient craft of copperplate engraving back into the limelight. And now with support from a specialist printer, one such competition winner will see his engraving of Santa Claus go into production as Christmas Cards. Andy Beavan-Smith’s work caught the eye of the Hand Engravers Association in their recent

The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair Online Provides Boost for Designer-Makers

So if there’s a hierarchy of how badly affected your sector is, when it comes to Covid 19, it’s safe to say that both the craft sector and events, come pretty high. The Crafts Council’s recent landmark survey ‘Market for Craft’ showed that 84% of makers surveyed cited fairs as their foremost revenue source. With the majority of  fairs cancelled due to the pandemic, the impact on makers has been devastating. Manchester’s award winning Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair (GNCCF) was one such casualty.  The annual GNCCF is one of the top fairs in the UK for makers and a

Amanda Mansell on why she is committed to creating a jewellery hub in Hatton Garden

Benchpeg spoke to Amanda Mansell this week, as she is nearing the end of her campaign to realise her jewellery hub concept ‘Loupe’ – a multi faceted initiative to support the jewellery industry in the heart of its geographical home. "When I was first introduced to the Hatton Garden jewellery industry about 20 years ago, so much of it operated behind closed doors. It wasn't easy gaining entry. I was lucky enough to receive help which opened some of those doors, but ever since then I’ve been involved in various projects and initiatives to help connect people and encourage the [youtube

New Designers 2019 sparkles with a strong focus on Jewellery

Last week, New Designers kicked off its celebration of new design talent; connecting fresh graduates with industry professionals across a plethora of creative fields. On a glorious sunny Wednesday, Benchpeg attended the Business Design Centre in London to get a sneak-peak at the fresh talent; and was extremely pleased to see such a strong jewellery presence at the event.  New Designers prides itself on its progressive nature, stating “Great design never stands still, and should challenge the status quo. We champion new thinking, and new approaches to solving today’s problems through design. As society changes, so do New Designers.”  This

Dainty Does It

The world of fashion, accesssories, jewellery and trends is one that constantly evolves, reintroduces and reinevents. So it's no surprise that some of you may be questioning whether the 90's trend of chokers might be somewhat - dare we say it -  pass é ?  Well that classic 90's spirit is still standing strong with a new season vibe and twist, guarenteed to add a little boost to your d écolletage. Forget the classic staples of thick velvet ribbons and tattoo style links and instead welcome in some daintier, delicate and ready-to-layer sterling silver pieces. The new wave of on-trend pieces

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

Chic Chain Reaction

Whilst the UK succumbs to the plunging temperatures and snow showers that January often delivers, the delights and burst of Springtime warmth feel like a far-distant dream. At Benchpeg, however, we're always of the opinion that you can never be too prepared, especially when your jewellery wardrobe is concerned. This is precisely why we're easing you into the Spring/Summer 2019 jewellery trends week-on-week so that you can invest in the all the sparkle that catches your eye whilst confidently knowing that you'll be a fashion catch when it comes to the style agenda later on this year. Everyone knows that the

Learn Hand Engraving with the Hand Engravers Association

Learn Hand Engraving with The Hand Engravers Association The Hand Engravers Association has been running these popular courses for many years and is delighted to announce its first course at the Goldsmiths’ Centre this autumn. Whether you are a complete beginner or a professional jeweller or silversmith looking to diversify your skills - the 'Hand Engraving: Basic Principals' courses are an in depth introduction to the techniques and tools of hand engraving. Taught by award winning tutor Wayne Parrott, the class size is kept to just eight students and run over six evenings so students have time to practice and

A History of London Jewellers and Jewellery

The UK’s capital city is renowned for many things, but nothing more so than it’s proud history and ancient traditions, many of which are still practiced to this day. Therefore, it’s really no surprise to discover that in this rich environment,  London jewellers  design and produce engagement rings, necklaces, brooches and earrings that boast an almost unrivalled historical pedigree. Rebecca Smyth from bespoke jewellers Taylor and Hart, takes us through the journey..... Harness the Past for the Designs of the Future At Taylor & Hart, our designers use London’s past as an unlimited source of inspiration – adopting, embellishing and reinterpreting motifs

Henryka’s ride on the Sausage Dog wave

A new museum devoted to all things sausage dog, a new world record for the largest number of sausage dogs in one place and now a unique sausage dog jewellery collection, which like the dog itself is both feisty and cute. British jewellery house Henryk, well known for their animal designs, have launched a range of four elegant Dachshund pendants and necklaces, riding on the back of a wiener craze that is currently  sweeping the world. All pieces are made from sterling silver and decorated mainly with amber so we have a sausage silver body and amber ears, a sausage

Tropical Coloured Fun

When you think of summer, you think of fun so this season it's all about piling on the colour, texture, print and shapes with your summer colour-popping accessories! The jewellery world is diving into the tropical world of summer with palm leaf prints, juicy fruit motifs and multi-coloured gemstones to brighten your life with statement style. Conjuring up scenes of crystal blue lapping waves, rich and lush rainforests of bushy leaves and exotic animals parading in beautiful arrays of colour, now is the time to get your hands on summers' finest necklaces, statement rings and flirty bracelets. Take a dive

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

MidCentury Modern - Dulwich 2017

MidCentury Modern The main building at this show, Christison Hall, is named after McCollugh Christison, Secretary of the Alleyn Club from 1906 till 1967, and long time College and Estate Governor. The building was designed by architects Manfred Bresgens and Malcolm Pringle of Austin Vernon & Partners between 1965 & 69. It is a fine example of the uniquely British architectural Brutalism movement of the 1950s and 60s. No wonder so many architects and designers love this show. The main building at this show, Christison Hall, is named after McCollugh Christison, Secretary of the Alleyn Club from 1906 till 1967,

From burgers to bolognese - Goldie Rox launch new foodie inspired Mangiare range

First they gave us burgers and now luxury jewellery makers Goldie Rox have turned their attentions to spaghetti as inspiration for the launch of a new range called 'Mangiare' from the bench of Roxanne Rajcoomar-Hadden. A self-confessed foodie, Roxanne's designs are grounded in simple but evocative food sampled from a series of culinary experiences so her burger and french fry rings, launched as the Goldie Rox collection in 2014, established her as unique for combining her dual passions of food and gems.  Her burgers quickly became the coollest accessories on the street, along with the bespoke burger box they were

It's All In The Charm

Bright, bold statement pieces have been on top of the trends radar all summer long so it's about time that something new and understated joined the race to become the ' it'  trend of the new season fashion world. Instead of big oversized hoops looping back round as a cliche style for autumn, a dainty obsession for sentimental chains and charms are taking centre stage for all those fashionistas. From vintage treasure chests of charm jewellery passed down through generations to new designer trinkets, the delicately layered jewellery of autumn is steeped in charming nostalgia and folklore symbolism. From graceful

The Ultimate Engagement Ring Guide

When it comes to engagement rings, the right style, colour, size, band, decoration and price is as unique as the wearer themselves! So when it comes to picking the right ring for your wife or husband to be, it's no wonder that many end up feeling overwhelmed as after all! If you're going to wear a ring for the rest of your life, you've got to make sure it's something pretty that hits the spot! Whilst one person may like a single diamond solitaire, another may want something a little unique with a Padparadscha sapphire pop! “Love is just a

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

Secret Garden Jewellery Box

A much-loved reference point for creative design and inspiration for interiors, tech to fashion and jewellery; it's hard not to pinpoint a designer who hasn't used the beautiful intricacies of nature to inspire a collection of artistry. Not only are their shapes, patterns, textures and sizes unique and different between creatures, plants, flora and fauna but so are the architectures around where they inhabit across the continent. To say there is a wealth of inspiration in nature would be an understatement! Beautiful incarnations of garden biodiversity are some of the most widely used within jewellery collections. Intricate, colourful and dainty floral

Sparkle: Contemporary Craft and Gourmet Food Fair

The Sparkle Fair Held every November, your sparkling festive season starts here! See and buy a dazzling range of contemporary work from more than 70 designer makers including jewellery, glass, ceramics, stylish accessories and so much more, plus a mouth-watering selection of gourmet food. Hundreds of bright and bold gift ideas. Dates Friday 17–Sunday 19 November 2017 Open Friday: 6–8.30pm Saturday: 10am–5pm Sunday: 10am–5pm Landmark Arts Centre Ferry Road Teddington TW11 9NN www.landmarkartscentre.org

Noordeman and Wright: Audiowear

Noordeman and Wright: Audiowear Sonic Arcade: Shaping Space with Sound  is a multi-component exhibition featuring interactive installations, immersive environments, and performing objects that explore how the ephemeral and abstract nature of sound is made material. At a time when so much visual information is being dispatched, consumed, and digested, the auditory provides a compelling sensory experience that is capable of reorienting the body to consider spatial and interpersonal relationships anew. Comprised of linked solo and curated projects,  Sonic Arcade  explores sound as substance, framing it as interdependent material that is physically crafted and transmitted through electronic circuits and signals, radio

Baby, it's Icy Outside!

With Halloween now a cobweb of the past, Guy Fawkes night over with a bang and remembrance Sunday beautifully celebrated across the country, it's that time of year where the festive cheer begins to roar loud for all to hear! Oh yes. The Christmas period is now upon us! With festivities, drinks and delectable soirees cropping up amongst our busy schedules, it's the perfect excuse to jazz up your look so that you sparkle just as much as the decorations around you! Get yourself mistletoe-ready and stand out for all the good reasons this season with some of our favourite sleek and

Grown-up Glitter for AW18

Your September diary may not be booked full of evening soirees full of schmoozing and boozing, but don't let that stop you from working some serious sparkle into your jewellery game this season! Statement looks guarenteed to cause a few head turns are all a-rage this September so why not up your accessories game with some red-carpet worthy sparkle and upgrade low-key day-to-night attire with a touch of razzle dazzle! Dip into a shower of dazzling showstoppers with  décolletage  grazers dripping in crystal motifs, neckline grabbers encrusted in multi-coloured sparklers and lollipop rings dusted in light-catching rocks! From subtle flashes

Crafts for Christmas 2017

Crafts for Christmas 2017 Come along to our annual Crafts for Christmas Fayre to browse a wonderful collection of OVER 50 STALLS including jewellery, wood, glass, ceramics, textiles, craft and so much more! Enjoy FESTIVE ENTERTAINMENT and an outdoor BIRDS OF PREY DISPLAY in the beautiful castle gardens. There is something for the little ones too including CHILDREN'S CRAFT WORKSHOP and FACEPAINTING by Fabulous Faces! Relax over coffee and cake whilst taking in the stunning sea views from our café before continuing on to the food hall in our medieval Tythe Barn where you will find FOOD STALLS including bread,

Domino to present diverse, design-led product portfolio at IJL

Domino Jewellery are set to delight UK and international buyers with their diverse, design-led product portfolio at International Jewellery London this year. The Birmingham based manufacturer has received excellent feedback on collections launched so far in 2019; the team are confident that their focus on high quality design with on trend pieces driven by market research and customer feedback, will drive continued demand for Domino collections. At IJL this year, the team will exhibit product from all of its 2019 collections including Fusion – interlocking, stackable diamond rings, Empire – clustered diamond engagement and lifestyle rings, and the recently refreshed

Raw pearls debut new diamond and pearl collection at IJL

Raw Pearls, the south west based pearl supplier will launch a brand new fine diamond and pearl jewellery collection at this year's International Jewellery London. All of their diamond and pearl pieces are available set on 18ct white or yellow gold and many are available as earring and pendant sets. Raw Pearls have reacted to customer feedback, that they needed a broader range of diamond set pearl pieces so the father and daughter company are responding to this demand. The entire ragnge will be showcased at the event. Raw pearls can be fund on stand A70 in the fine jewellery

Top female metalsmiths team up for UK campaign

Some of the UK's most distinguished female metalsmiths are set to launch a new campaign to promote the craft in Britain by exhibiting as a collective at the inaugural TRESOR Contemporary Craft in Basel, Switzerland next month. In a pioneering move, the group of award-winning internationally acclaimed artists, including Simone ten Hompel, Rebecca de Quin, Ane Christensen, Adi Toch and Juliette Bigley, will collaborate with a range of individual pieces and a specially made film which focuses on each artist and the craft.  “We’ve worked beside and with each other, shared workshops and taught each other so it is particularly

Gemstone & Hardstone Carving for Jewellery with Charlotte De Syllas - II

Gemstone & Hardstone Carving for Jewellery with Charlotte De Syllas A FEW PLACES LEFT Charlotte De Syllas Short Courses 2017 Intensive 5 Day Workshop Courses 5 days intensive work to learn how to carve from cutting out through to polishing an object in hard or gemstone in well equipped studio in Norfolk. About the Short Course Classes are small and friendly, with expert individual tuition. We have saws, grinders, carving spindles and micro motors as well as burrs, files & polishing pastes so that you can go from sawing a piece of rough stone to blocking it out, carving it and

The Art of the Statement Earring

Impossible to overlook, difficult to over-do and so easy to wear, it’s no wonder statement earrings are making proclamations everywhere at the moment. It’s a look whereby anything goes. It works whether your ear furniture co-ordinates, complements or clashes. The variety of materials, styles, colours and textures is endless. A statement earring or two can turn around an otherwise plain outfit, or take an eclectic get-up one step further. Earrings are in some ways easier to wear than other statement jewellery. There is less chance of them getting caught on a flowing sleeve or clashing with a fussy neckline, and

Swarovski reboots new look Gem Visions for Spring Summer 2019

At a time of radical change in the jewellery world, Swarovski Gemstones, the go to brand for gemstones and created stones, transforms the format and focus of Gem Visions, its industry leading trend and design service. Gem Visions will now be presented twice yearly, each issue with a seasonal slant, so that the first new-look Gem Visions is targeted specifically on Spring/Summer 2019. The dynamically different design, and notebook layout, with a fresh, playful freedom, are intended to ignite innovation, stimulate imagination and capture the essence of the season’s theme: YES TO ALL. In the edition of Gem Visions Swarovski embrace and

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,

Weston Beamor team earns full set of Fairtrade certificates

Weston Beamor have started 2018 with a flurry of activity with the entire customer service division earning their Fairtrade Gold Sales Ambassador Certificates of Accreditation. Training for the certificates was prompted firstly by their award recently ‘Ethical Jewellery Business of the Year’ and also by the increasing curiosity among customers for a jewel's back story such as material origins and the supplier's trading practices. So each member of the 12-strong customer facing team took to their computers and completed the Fairtrade Foundation’s online ‘Fairtrade Gold Sales Ambassador Certificate of Accreditation’ courses. It means the team is familiar with how the

Swinging Into New Year Ear Bling

New Year is all about ringing in the changes, embracing something different and refreshing your look ready to kick last year into the past. After the ear cuff was the jewellery prince of royalty throughout 2017, this year will welcome the pendulum swing of XXL length earrings in shiny, sculptural, arty, glitzy chandeliers. 2018 is all about going big or going home so step up your bling game and make a statement with elegant cascading stand-out earrings! From left to right: Gold 3D Flower Droppers , Large Pearl Drop Earrings , Gold & Black Perspex Flower Droppers , Shell Dropper

Glowing Watch Celebrates 50 Years since Moon Landing

This Saturday marks fifty years since the first moon landing, so in light of this milestone Christopher Ward has launched an intricate new watch.  The exclusive new timepiece builds upon the traditional horological moon phase complication to create a completely modern timepiece. The watch has two 3D moons, which both emit a moonglow, making this watch stunning both day and night. The moons on the watch are coated with Grade X1 GL C1 ‘Super-LumiNova’ which produces an otherworldly glow. The same ‘Super-LumiNova’ is applied to the Arabic numbers as well as the hands of the watch, making the watch one

Jewellery community members flock from all over the country to attend Make Your Mark 2019

On Tuesday, Goldsmiths’ Hall opened its doors to the jewellery community for its first major networking event of the year. Designers, makers and students alike flocked to London from across the country to attend a range of talks and demonstrations. It was heartening to meet with so many people, both established and emerging, within the trade. The talks programme was ever-popular, providing invaluable advice and insight from a range of speakers, including Bobby and Tommy White, Jos Skeates, Gary Williamson and Jo Bride; as well as a select few of insiders from the Goldsmiths’ Company. The topics were carefully curated

Identity - Nine New Graduates

Kath Libbert presents Identity - Nine New Gradutes Vivid, tactile, provocative, playful, contemplative – our annual selection of the best new UK graduate talent evokescuriosity and delights the senses! Kath Libbert Jewellery Gallery , which this year celebrates twenty one years at Salts Mill, Saltaire, has selected and exhibited the work of new graduates since its inception. In numerous cases these emerging talents have gone on to gain wide acclaim for their work, and many continue to be represented by the gallery. Kath says: ‘spotting and then supporting the work of cutting edge new graduates has always been so central

Gemstone & Hardstone Carving for Jewellery with Charlotte De Syllas - I

Gemstone & Hardstone Carving for Jewellery with Charlotte De Syllas NOW FULL Charlotte De Syllas Short Courses 2017 Intensive 5 Day Workshop Courses 5 days intensive work to learn how to carve from cutting out through to polishing an object in hard or gemstone in well equipped studio in Norfolk. About the Short Course Classes are small and friendly, with expert individual tuition. We have saws, grinders, carving spindles and micro motors as well as burrs, files & polishing pastes so that you can go from sawing a piece of rough stone to blocking it out, carving it and polishing the

Beppe Kessler: Plenty of Nothing

The Galerie Rob Koudijs hosts a solo show by Beppe Kessler, as poetic as it is unique. In fact, in this latest work Beppe Kessler explores the so-called natural phenomenon  spring snow,  typical of Amsterdam, where the artist lives writes Ilaria Ruggiero. Through her language, she stages a wunderkammer in which the wonder of nature becomes art, and life turns into eternity. To a certain extent, the ancient Wunderkammer can be considered as the first stage of the development of the concept of museum. Historically,  Naturalia and Artificialia  have been those objects with particular or wonderful characteristics that have aroused

Cheaper and cleaner - the way forward for diamonds?

It takes between one and three billion years of intense heat and pressure to make a pure diamond....unless you believe the boffins at Cardiff University who reckon they can make a diamond in a few days. In a laboratory. And no one, they say, can tell the difference. For a while now, more and more companies have been growing their own diamonds, selling them at around 15-20% less than natural gems.  Making them in a laboratory leaves no carbon footprint and the end result is identical as far as the naked eye is concerned, or so they say, with only

Charlotte's Web Celebrates 10 Years Online

A decade of adventures by the free-spirited founder, Charlotte Howarth, spanning continents and embracing different cultures, has resulted in the enchanting world of Charlotte’s Web.  This summer, Charlotte's Web is celebrating 10 years of being online as a sophisticated, eclectic and bespoke jewellery collection. Of her success, Charlotte reminises on how her journey began, “My own personal love affair with India began at the age of 21, when I embarked on my first solo adventure there, never imagining that it would have such a powerful impact on my life. Falling, as so many before me, under India’s mystical spell. I

Put The Sparkle In Christmas: Jewellery Gift Guide

Seasons greetings everyone! It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas and as Andy Williams so tunefully sung, 'It's the most wonderful time of the year'! Tracking down that perfect gift to jingle the silver bells of that special someone can end up feeling more like a trek through ice than a gliding sledge ride through the snow. Chill out and put your feet up - we've put on our Christmas elf boots and have scoured the festive collections to bring you the sparkling stars of the Jewellery Christmas tree - guaranteed to inject a touch of merriment to even

Hardstone & Gemstone Carving: Intensive 5 Day Workshop with Charlotte De Syllas

Hardstone & Gemstone Carving: Intensive 5 Day Workshop with Charlotte De Syllas Summer Course 2019 - Maximum 5 students per course 22 – 26 July 2019 Places still available Absolute beginners as well as those with some experience are welcome. Classes are small and friendly, with expert individual tuition. All equipment & stone provided in a spacious studio in Norfolk, 16 miles from Norwich, in quiet countryside. We have saws, grinders, carving spindles and micro motors as well as burrs, files & polishing pastes so that you can go from sawing a piece of rough stone to blocking it out,

Business Growth: How To Sell Your Work

Business Growth: How To Sell Your Work The Goldsmiths' Centre  Your hand-crafted jewellery collection or silversmithing work is ready to sell. Now you are looking to approach a selling event, shops, boutiques and galleries to earn good-sized sales. This can seem like a daunting proposition, so where do you begin? Rebecca Hossain, pictured, former Head of Retail for the Design Museum, will explain how to get your foot in the door and empower you to present yourself and your work confidently to selling event organisers, buyers and wholesalers. This business growth workshop is specifically tailored to jewellers and silversmiths; and

Pforzheim: 250th Anniversary of the Golden City

In 2017 Pforzheim, Germany will celebrate the 250th anniversary of its jewellery and watch industry.  The city will mark this anniversary with unique exhibitions and spectacular live acts, with jewellery and design art, with conventions and congresses, with plenty of music and theatre and it will demonstrate which innovations have developed out of Pforzheim’s traditional industry. It was Margrave Karl Friedrich, who in 1767 issued the privilege to create a pocket watch and silverware manufactory in Pforzheim. In doing so, he initiated a story of success that would shape Pforzheim to this day and finally make it the “Golden City”. 

Dharma: The New Collection to Courageously Live your Calling

Are you ready to set your soul free? Luxury ethical jewellery brand Ananda Soul, originating from Bali, has launched its newest collection : Dharma. The new collection invites you to take the plunge, tune into your soul and courageously live your calling. The inspiration for this collection comes from a deep seated desire by founder and designer Christina Zipperlen to help women realise that they are so much more than their bodies and appearances. Designed to celebrate the beauty that each and every one of us possesses in this exact moment, Ananda is the realisation that nothing outside of us can

Pulse 14–16 May 2017 - Olympia, London

If you don’t know about Pulse already, it is a beautifully curated, boutique trade event designed for busy buyers who are searching for the next must-have products and the freshest design talent in one central location. For 2017 we are launching Makers , the first trade event dedicated to emerging creative talent, and Brands , a must-attend edit of exciting new launches from 30 of the industry’s leading brands. Pulse is all about making an impact so we have no doubt you will find great products that will do really well in your stores! Dates 14–16 May 2017 Venue Olympia

Angela Gillies Sees Winning Design Hallmarked In London

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

Free registration is now live for IJL 2017

IJL 2017 opens its doors at Olympia, London on 3 September 2017 for three days of inspiration, innovation, education and networking opportunities.  Jewellery trade visitors who register online before 30 th  June will be entered in a prize draw to be in with a chance to win a case of  Thienot  champagne.        Sam Willoughby, Event Director, commented,  “Early birds who register now for IJL 2017 can plan their show down to the last detail. Free entry is guaranteed and there is so much more, all easily accessible through My Event, the IJL event online planning and networking

Meet The Manufacturer 2017

Meet The Manufacturer Trade Show, Seminars & Workshops Meet the Manufacturer is back for 2017 and we’d love you to join us!  Organised by Make it British and now in its fourth year, Meet the Manufacturer is the only major sourcing event specifically for British manufacturers of clothing, textiles, leather goods and homeware.  This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever before and will include a two-day trade show with free drop-in seminars, workshops and live demonstrations with, of course, plenty of opportunities for networking. Day one will culminate in a VIP drinks reception & BBQ, so

Drop It Down Low & Swing Into Spring

The impending dreary days of January blues is like the meddling evil step-sister intent on making your life a colourless two-tone existence. A new year marks an exciting period for the world of Jewellery as designers set their sights on the anticipated sunshine showers of limitless summer fun and get to work of capturing such mischief in their spring/summer capsule collections! So with 2016 being a year of inexplicable outcomes, shocking disasters and a general rocky year many willed to end, here at Benchpeg we've decided to gather up our 90s throwback chokers that bombarded our 2016 wardrobes and tie

When Sparks Fly: Leading Lady Gift Guide

There's no more hiding under your blanket of ignorance anymore so it's time to stop playing ostrich and embrace the fact that tis' officially the season to shimmer & shine topped off with an abundant shower of bubbly wine! Bring a touch of sparkle to Christmas morning and enchant the leading lady(ies) in your life with a gift that speaks from the deep dark depths of your wallet heart! When it comes to present plucking for the fine female in your life it can often leave you feeling like a duck led to a barren river-bed...out of your depth &

The Beauty In Grecian Antiquity

As the temperatures rise and the ability to slurp a cocktail (or two) like an athlete gasping for water it appears that our bare skin and pins suddenly see the light as our dresses get shorter. With more minxy flashes of skin up for attention, it boils down to only one logical conclusion; plenty more space to adorn yourself with beautiful jewellery!  Summertime is a season of fun, frivolous risks and more daring looks so why not charge up your jewellery game by thinking outside of the standard box: you've got the necklace, the bracelet, the ring, the chandelier droppers

Ear Cuff Galore: Crafted With Love. Curated With Taste. Worn With Character

The last couple of months the Ear Cuff has been dominating fashion; a different, more eclectic way to adorn one’s ear. On catwalks, on the streets and in magazines, the Ear Cuff is here to stay. Auverture have scoured the world to find such gems. They specialise in unique, designer fine jewellery. So it is no surprise that they have collected a broad collection of beautiful ear cuffs, designed by various and tremendously talented designers. Fernando Jorge's ‘Fluid Diamonds Ear Cuffs’ wind around the edge of the ear and are set with tiny diamonds. The ear cuffs themselves are crafted in 18ct yellow gold.

Evening Soiree, Meet The Maker

Evening Soiree, Meet The Maker Do you like shopping? Did you know unique handmade contemporary crafts are currently for sale at Vittoria Street Gallery? The Meet The Maker pop up shop is open for 1 more night! So it’s your last chance to buy beautiful work from Made in the Middle exhibitors. You are welcome to join us for an evening soiree in the Vittoria Street Gallery in association with Talking Practice. You will have the opportunity to meet Made in the Middle makers, have a chat and a glass of wine, and to purchase work from the exhibition. The

DRAKENBERG Introduces Birthstones

The Swedish jewellery brand DRAKENBERG creates timeless and minimalistic jewelleries inspired by the Nordic nature. This spring the designer duo wants to give the collection a new touch and are therefore presenting the new collection Birthstones. A collection of stones representing each month of the year. “We’ve been working on this collection for some time now and we feel so proud to finally launch it. It is exiting to try a new material and add some colour in a DRAKENBERG way, with a lot of thoughts behind it”, says Andrea Drakenberg Daléus, Creative Director at Drakenberg. Andrea Drakenberg and Ellen

BAJ attends the 25th Parlement Lycéen Européen Meeting

After securing membership of the Parlement Lycéen Européen last year, the British Academy of Jewellery attended the 25th meeting in France. Bringing together over 50 representatives of 9 European Jewellery Schools from 9 different European countries to discuss jewellery education and plan future innovative Erasmus exchange projects. The 25th edition of the meeting, raised questions about the future. With economic turbulence affecting schools across Europe, the meeting aimed to bring the members together to find ways to continue working collaboratively to ensure students studying jewellery continue to develop these ever so important European links. Each year the PLE organises a travelling

Vanilla Ink Launches Scottish Jewellery School

Vanilla Ink Studios has teamed up with Goldsmith Scott McIntyre to create the Vanilla Ink  Jewellery  School; aimed at bridging the gap from education to industry, helping to  shape and grow the  jewellery  trade across Scotl and. Glasgow based Vanilla Ink Studios want the new school to inspire, educate and empower the jewellery and silversmith industry by helping to mould the next generation of goldsmiths. Just like any new and innovative idea, a helping hand unleashes the potential to soar to success. So Vanilla Ink Studios have also now  launched a crowdfunding campaign  where they hope that together with help

Home Secretary Supports Home Grown Talent

"I never imagined that I’d meet the Home Secretary, or that her first words to me would be, “So you’re the jewellery teacher that inspired all of these makers…”." Amber Rudd was referring to the shop she’d just opened called The Peer Collection, the vision of Sue Jones, a character as indomitable as the tide and the freshly renovated Hasting’s Pier makes the perfect location for her venture. The Peer Collection is a lovely play on words coming from the element that Sue started as a jewellery student of mine, and through the class, gained the skills to make jewellery,

Rare Pink the Custom Engagement Ring Etailer rebrands to Taylor & Hart

Three years after launching, innovative online retailer of custom designed engagement rings, Rare Pink, has rebranded to Taylor & Hart. The company hopes to position itself as the online leader in custom designed jewellery as they expand their focus to include the rest of Europe and the US market. Rare Pink was founded in 2013 by David Sutton and Nikolay Piriankov with the vision to improve the experience of buying an engagement ring. The centuries old jewellery industry, they felt, had failed to evolve, too comfortable in its ways, while millennials wanted so much more than the “off the shelf”

Benevolent Society Ball Sponsor Announced

Jewellery & Watch are delighted to announce their headline sponsorship of this year’s British Jewellery & Giftware Federation Benevolent Society Ball. The 1st December will see the 81st Benevolent Society Ball take place at The St John’s Hotel, Birmingham.     The society’s Chairman, David Simons, expressed his delight, “It is wonderful that Jewellery & Watch have agreed to be the headline sponsor of the 2016 Federation’s Benevolent Ball. To have exhibition organisers who are so committed to the industries that they represent in this way is a credit to all in volved. We are truly grateful.”    This Benevolent Society Ball will also

Watch This Space: Fashion Wrist-wear Strikes Like Clockwork

The seasons are swiftly chopping and changing as the winds blow in the new trend treasures so as time ticks on, it's prime time to clock onto the new faces taking centre spotlight for all to watch. As hotfooted magpies to anything refined, sparkly and delicately ornate we know the power that a piece of jewellery holds in sculpting a look into new extraordinary territory. The ticking accessory set to hit a strike this coming 2017 is the unsung wrist wear usually reserved only for daily practicality: The Watch. Peaking into the forefront of trend wear must-haves, the demure and

Flourish Conference

Flourish: A Two Day Conference To Ignite Your Creative Business Ambitions The Talent Development team at Crafts Council brings you leading industry experts so you can share, debate and network; providing you with a vital set of action points and links that will cultivate and shape your creative practice. The event will ignite your creative ambitions by bringing together leading industry experts to help you start, build and sustain a successful business.  Topics will range from practical advice on finance and copyright laws to how you create a strong brand identity and build resilience into your business. The keynote address

Crafts for Christmas Fayre, St Donat's Castle - Vale of Glamorgan

Come along to St Donats annual Crafts for Christmas Fayre to browse a wonderful collection of stalls including jewellery, wood, glass, ceramics, and so much more! Enjoy festive entertainment and new this year, an outdoor birds of prey display in the beautiful castle gardens. Relax over coffee and cake whilst taking in the stunning sea views from our café before continuing on to the food hall in our medieval Tythe Barn. All in all a fantastic start to the festive season… and you might even meet santa too! Crafts for Christmas at St Donats Castle Tickets: £6.00 per car or

RHS Wisley 2017

This event, one of our largest, will be held mainly in floored marquees within the beautiful surroundings of RHS Garden Wisley so visitors will be able to view and purchase contemporary craft and art from around 170 exhibitors whilst also enjoying the beautiful spring garden with its huge plant collection. In addition visitors will be able to discover a diverse range of sculptures, garden art and outdoor exhibits as they wander around the world renowned garden and up towards the state-of-the-art glasshouse where there will be a display of work by some of the UK's finest contemporary silversmiths. Venue RHS

The Power of A Chain Reaction

We like 'em big and we most definitely like 'em chunky. Bold, buxom and modern, the chain has linked back round into our style wardrobes and is set to be the statement piece of your summer style. The minimalism of this classic linked look has been revamped, remodelled and revitalised so that this standout look packs a heavy duty statement punch. Oozing with character and personality, the chain adornment can be worn solo or mixed and matched with fine chains, fabric chokers, delicate pendants and fearless gemstones for one head turning look of vogue. "More is more and less is

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

Star Studded: iKuria Announces Launch of New Collection

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

F. Hinds' New Harlow Store's Romantic Opening

The moment the shutters rolled open a few days ahead of schedule on F. Hinds’ new Harvey Centre store in Harlow, the first customer Mark Rapley arrived, keen on selecting an engagement ring. He had spotted the perfect ring within the new store’s extensive diamond-filled windows and just knew it was right.  That same afternoon he proposed and Alyson Meek accepted – and so Mark and Alyson helped celebrate the official opening of F. Hinds’ 119th store, with Councillor Edna Stevens as the official ribbon cutter. “We were delighted to have such a romantic story to celebrate our new store”

Rebecca Hannon: Contemporary Camouflage

Contemporary Camouflage is Rebecca Hannon’s latest project, one she has developed during two months residency at Studio Rian de Jong, in Amsterdam. Interested in the concepts of concealing and revealing, which stem from the notion of camoiuflage, the artist presents a series of brooches, chignon covers, earrings and necklaces, the result of a paradoxical exploration in the field of contemporary jewellery.  Camouflage means “to blend into”, to conceal oneself in one’s surroundings so as to protect oneself, to go unnoticed, or to become a predator in order to survive. Coloration is the principal form camouflage takes in nature. Adapted by

Frankie Bridge Featured in Thomas Sabo Spring Shoot

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

Cornerstone Creations Celebrates Trade Show Success

Cornerstone Creations is a beautifully made contemporary, classic silver jewellery collection based in St Ives, Cambridgeshire. Founded and designed by award winning British goldsmith Paul Spurgeon, this conscience collection is all made in sterling silver using the best semi-precious stones.  Each piece of this contemporary silver collection is independtely designed by award-winning goldsmith Paul Spurgeon so that every piece portrays his fresh, flowing design. The key desire of Cornerstone Creations is to create jewellery with classic wearability underpinned with a contemporary flair; a jewellery range perfect for every occassion.  The company has triumphed with a fantastic start to the year.

Bernhard Schobinger: After Nature

Bernhard Schobinger: After Nature "So, when the optic nerve tears, in the still of the air all turns as white as the snow of the Alps". - W.G Sebald "After Nature", 1988 In figurative art, to paint after nature is the opposite of “imitating art”, with its idealization of reality. The works in this exhibition of recent jewellery by Bernhard Schobinger evince the natural world through a communality of means; rather than “imitating nature” they assimilate the human creative process to that of nature, with its perfect, sophisticated and senseless accidents. The contrast between the polished angular surfaces and rough

Folli Follie Partner with Photoslurp

Leading visual commerce and marketing platform Photoslurp has announced a partnership with the FF Group to improve their customers’ online shopping experience. The partnership gives flagship jewellery and accessory brands Links of London and Folli Follie the ability to gather user-generated content, such as hash-tagged photos, improving the path to purchase for customers by making them ‘shoppable’. “Social proof has always played an important role in building trust with customers ever more so in today’s digital world. With brand presence growing rapidly on social networks like Instagram, Photoslurp will ensure we are maximising both our engagement levels and our visual

Big Names Get Set for Make Your Mark

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

Bransom Launch Web-based Stocktaking

Since its introduction just over a year ago, many Bransom customers have taken advantage of the increased speed and accuracy of their stocktakes thanks to the company’s cloud-based stocktaking module. Now Bransom has expanded the potential user base of the solution by providing a third-party interface to other accounts and stock systems so more retailers can benefit from faster and more accurate counts if they are not current Bransom clients. Much like when used with Bransom’s bsmart2 stock management system, the stocktaking module allows a retailer to import sessions in preparation for the stocktake. These use a stock file in

Dinny Hall Embraces The Return of The Pendant

The pendant is set to be the jewllery trend of 2017, so layer with chokers or simply solo on the decolletage for the ultimate statement. Iconic British jeweller Dinny Hall embraces this delicate and charming springtime trend with her collection of lockets and accompanying ready-to-personalise birthstone and initial charms. Inspiration for the designs stems from the designer’s deeprooted love of gemology and desire to create a truly expressive collection and spread happiness to those wearing the necklaces. Available in silver, 22ct gold vermeil and rose gold and solid 18ct gold, on a beautiful rolo chain, with options for varying lengths,

In Pursuit of Luxury Podcast

In Pursuit of Luxury has just launched its podcast  In conversation with Bijou Abiola. In the podcast Shaun Borstrock interviews Bijou Abiola in a series on visionary women in luxury. Bijou and Shaun discuss what is happening today in luxury retail and the important role digital plays.  She says she envisions a day when she won’t be the only woman or the only black woman in the room. www . inpursuitofluxury . com Author:  Published: 

Joya Barcelona 2018: An Interview with the Director Paulo Ribeiro

Ilaria Ruggiero met the Director of Joya Barcelona, Paulo Ribeiro, for few questions about what will be most exciting at this years fair, the 10th edition! The 2018 edition of Joya Barcelona is expected to be a celebration of the past ten years of very successful editions, and it is meant to be over the top! JOYA is a platform that during these ten years has served as a space for interaction, debate and meeting point of art jewellery sector in Spain, artists and galleries, private collectors and cultural elite, with a complete program of events, exhibitions, conferences and with

An Introduction into Wax Carving and Sand Casting

An Introduction into Wax Carving and Sand Casting 4 Day Workshop 25 – 28 July 2018 What will be taught? This course is designed to give you an introduction into wax carving and sand casting. You will learn the basics of both techniques with the possibility to design and make rings, earrings and pendants. You will be taught to create simple shapes in wax which are suitable as masters for the sand casting process and which can be used as masters to create a metal copy. The first part of the course will cover the basic principles and processes of

The Jewellery Quarter Festival

The Jewellery Quarter Festival is a showcase of what Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter is today  as well as a celebration of the vibrant business and wider JQ communities. Organised by the Jewellery Quarter Business Improvement District (JQBID) and supported by local businesses, the festival takes place over a weekend in July each year and is ideal for visitors and families as well as anyone who lives, learns or works in the area. The event is comprised of two main features; outdoor activities and entertainment on the two public squares and the Open Studios Trail in a number of workshops and studios

International Summer Academy of Fine Arts Salzburg

Program 2017 of the International Summer Academy of Fine Arts Salzburg Why produce art? The motto of 2017 is the very general and fundamental question: Why art produce? This applies to the summer academy as an institution as well as to all art-makers. What does it mean to produce art today, how is art related to the socio-political situation? And why do art teach and teach art over and over again? Art is a way to relate to the world. However, art is also a place of retreat, art allows for immersion, that is, fusing with it or with certain

Scotgold Bulk Processing Trial Sales Update

Scotgold Resources Ltd last week entered into an agreement with Ocean Partners for the sale of up to 120 tonne of the gold rich pyrite concentrate to be generated by the Bulk Processing Trial in Scotland. The first shipment to Ocean Partners’ premises in the Netherlands will take place as soon as the appropriate logistics have been put in place. The Company has now accumulated what is considered to be a cost effective shipping load and as of 26th October, the BPT had generated an estimated mass of approximately 13.5t of pyrite concentrate with a preliminary estimated gold content of

Silver Speaks: Form - The Goldsmiths' Centre

Silver Speaks: ‘Form’ is an exhibition of work by members of Contemporary British Silversmiths. It offers a behind the scenes look at the techniques that enable makers to create work in silver, while exploring their relationship with materials, processes and tools. It is part of Silver Speaks, the year long programme of events celebrating the exceptional level of creativity and skill in British silversmithing today. Running from 1st June until 23rd September 2016, it will take place at The Goldsmiths’ Centre in London. The exhibition will provide an insight into the processes behind the making of objects and what is

Narratives In Making, National Craft Gallery - Kilkenny

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

The Craft of Silversmithing

Price: from £5.10 Takes a fresh look at the ancient craft of silversmithing with 18 projects that teach various skills.  This manual provides artisans with an understanding of silver's properties: what it is and how it behaves. It explains beginning, intermediate, and advanced techniques and then applies it to craft beautiful items. Image caption or copyright  CV Surgery

Take the Fair Luxury 'Pledge'

Over the past 12 months, jewellery industry change makers 'Fair Luxury' have been hosting a series of on-line events under the banner of the 'Open House. These events have frequently involved guest speakers as well as taking an open conversation format. The overall intention has been to provide those interested in learning more about responsible practise with a forum in which to do so. The team at Fair Luxury say that feedback has been extremely positive with many attendees keen to become further involved. As a response, the ' Fair Luxury Pledge'  was launched during the January Open House session. Fair Luxury member Anna Loucah

Orcadian Jewellery Designer, Sheila Fleet, opens new Glasgow Store

This Friday see's the opening of Orkney jewellery designer, Sheila Fleet's new store in Glasgow. The new store will sit amongst other premium retailers within the award-winning retail and leisure destination, Princes Square.  In addition to showcasing Sheila Fleet’s many collections, the new shop will feature some very special jewellery that’s been created using rare Scottish gold. Sheila Fleet is one of only two jewellers authorised to receive gold from Scotland’s only gold mine, at Cononish near Tyndrum, so this unique range is sure to be an additional draw for Glasgow customers. Image caption or copyright  Months in planning and

Cockpit Arts Open Studios Xmas 2018 - Holborn

Christmas Open Studios 2018 Holborn 23-25 November, Deptford 30 November - 2 December The Cockpit Arts Open Studios is the perfect Christmas shopping opportunity to purchase beautifully handcrafted gifts direct from independent makers. Whether you’re looking for jewellery, homewares, ceramics or fashion and accessories… there’s so much on offer. Holborn · 23 - 25 November Opening times: Fri 1pm – 8pm, Sat + Sun 11am – 6pm Cockpit Yard, Northington St, London, WC1N 2NP Deptford · 30 November - 2 December Opening times: Fri 1pm – 8pm, Sat + Sun 11am – 6pm 18-22 Creekside London, SE8 3DZ Tickets In

Cockpit Arts Open Studios Xmas 2018 - Deptford

Christmas Open Studios 2018 Holborn 23-25 November, Deptford 30 November - 2 December The Cockpit Arts Open Studios is the perfect Christmas shopping opportunity to purchase beautifully handcrafted gifts direct from independent makers. Whether you’re looking for jewellery, homewares, ceramics or fashion and accessories… there’s so much on offer. Holborn · 23 - 25 November Opening times: Fri 1pm – 8pm, Sat + Sun 11am – 6pm Cockpit Yard, Northington St, London, WC1N 2NP Deptford · 30 November - 2 December Opening times: Fri 1pm – 8pm, Sat + Sun 11am – 6pm 18-22 Creekside London, SE8 3DZ Tickets In

Kingsgate Workshops Winter Show

Earlier this year, the 75 artists and makers who inhabit Kingsgate Workshops’ unique and enchanting Victorian warehouse held their annual Open Studios. It was so successful they’ve opted for a festive edition – this time it’s all about the presents. There’ll be beautiful handmade unique gifts available, ranging from Steve Buck’s ceramic decorations, to Beverly Bryon’s fused glass creations. Private View Join them on Thursday evening for our grand opening, with festive appetisers in the magical fairy-lit courtyard. Late Night Shopping Opening late on Friday. Pop down after work and get cracking on your Christmas shopping, with decorations, gifts, stocking

Marks & Spencer Combat Customer Allergy Concerns

This summer, Marks & Spencer (M&S) will become the first high street retailer to set a new standard in hypoallergenic jewellery – as it launches Skin Kind™.  From May every item in M&S’s fashion jewellery range will meet its new Skin Kind™ standards, so that even customers with the most sensitive skin can wear stylish accessories with confidence.  The project began last year when M&S discovered that more than one in four [28%] of customers didn’t wear fashion jewellery because they were concerned about potential allergic reactions. To help address these concerns, M&S partnered with Birmingham based, world leading precious

Pursuit Reveal Next Generation Online Sale Integration

Pursuit  unveiled  the next g eneration  of its revolutionary Lifestyle mobile till  and stock  records retail sales tool at J&W Birmingham.  Running on an iPad or other tablet device and  launche d in 2012, Lifestyle was the first product of its kind  specifically designed for the  jewellery  business. The new  version is being provided free to existing users.    Mike Burns, Managing Director of the market-leading so ftware  house, states, “ The latest version of our iPad-based till and sales tool  incorporates enhanced item- by -item presentation and  benefits from user-feedback and our commitment to contin uous development. It ’

Open Call: Piece of Peace

Open Call: Piece of Peace @ Munich Jewellery Week 2025 What is the aim of the open call? In our times, when society is confronted daily with violence, destruction, and aggression rooted in ethnic, political, or religious divisions, we, as creators, must affirm our obligatory commitment to humanity and stand firmly on the constructive side. This open call aims to harness the medium of jewelry to convey a message of peace. By showcasing pieces worn on the body and messages spread in the streets, we aim to make art an active presence in society. We strive to achieve this goal

Motion and Forces

Motion and Forces Design Museum, London Monday 17 October, 18.30 – 20.00 Join artist Conrad Shawcross RA, Fashion Designer Beatrix Ong MBE and Director of Patrimony and Exhibitions at Van Cleef & Arpels, Lise MacDonald, as they discuss the significance of motion and forces in their work with the Design Museum Director Tim Marlow. How do designers, creatives and artists make static objects come alive? What are the secrets to making jewellery, artworks or fashion capture motion? Hear these questions explored with Conrad Shawcross RA, one of the UK’s most important sculptors, Director of Patrimony and Exhibitions at Van Cleef

20 Years in the Making

20 Years in the Making 27 April - 22 June 2024 Part of Craft Festival’s 20-year celebration Amazingly, Craft Festival has been going for 20 years. What started as a small project with 2000 visitors in Bovey Tracey has grown into the fantastic, diverse and vibrant event it now is, shaping the town where it started into the ‘Capital of Craft’, spreading the word to Cheltenham, Cardiff and online, and perhaps even transforming our views of making to appreciate the handmade that little bit more. In recognition of this, Sarah James, Director of Craft Festival and Find a Maker, was

A touch of modern romance

When you think of heart-shaped accessories, what springs to mind? For many, thoughts would fly to the heart-shaped chocolate boxes, teddy bears holding heart-shaped cushions and delicate heart pendants that come out in full force around the annual Valentine's Day holiday tradition.  Whilst some may adore these heart-shaped accessories, others have found them to be too sickly and girlish. Whatever your personal opinion of this symbolic shape, the heart has been an iconic motif used throughout period antiques for many centuries.  First created as a symbol of enduring love and romance, the heart shape was first reported at the end

Goldsmiths’ Company announces new acquisitions for 2020/2021

The Goldsmiths’ Company has announced its latest acquisitions from the last year for its Collection, which comprises works of art of world class importance. The acquisitions reinforce the Company’s support for contemporary makers through commissions and purchases, in what has been a challenging year for British craftspeople. Dr Dora Thornton, Curator of the Goldsmiths’ Company says that  the report of acquisitions  reveals extraordinary examples of work made for the Collection.  “Our commissions, and purchases recognise and celebrate the quality and handmaking skills of our craft. All the pieces contribute to our wider understanding of contemporary jewellery and silver. They tell

Call to Action on Climate Change: Responsible Jewellery Council Webinar

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

Jewellery Workshop Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced Projects at the K2 Academy of Jewellery

Jewellery Workshop Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced Projects Thursdays 9 Jan – 19 Mar 2020 Fridays 10 Jan – 20 Mar 2020 Who Is It For? This course is ideal for students who want to learn new techniques and practice their skills or for students who just want to broaden their jewellery knowledge. What Will Be Taught? Each term focuses on a different topic where students will be taught how to explore new designs and ideas within a set theme. The theme can be used for making a specialised piece, which can include different techniques like casting, findings and brooch backs,

Pegs

We’ve been ‘supporting the work of the jeweller’ for over a fifteen years now. We love a benchpeg too, which is why we created the 'benchpeg selfie.' We absolutely love how each peg represents the individuality of the craftsperson who works upon it.  If you'd like to see your benchpeg featured here upload your pic to Instagram using #benchpegselfie. We will pick the best images every week and feature them on the website and newsletter. Please add a description of what it is you are working on.                           

The Goldsmiths Company Charity helps to address the cost-of-living crisis

£197,380 awarded in donations and grants to support jewellers and those working in the allied trades The Goldsmiths’ Company Charity has issued multiple cost-of-living grants to charities and apprentices within the trade to support them during this difficult period, using the remainder of the funds from its Covid-19 Fund. Originally created to address the impact of the pandemic, the Covid-19 Fund provided financial support to individuals working in the jewellery, silversmithing and allied trades to help them through a period of hardship and help sustain the craft, skills and future of the industry during what was an unprecedented period in most

Copenhagen Commitment Summit in London seen as hugely positive step forward

On a beautiful sunny day this week, Benchpeg was invited to join the Copenhagen Commitment’s second summit meeting hosted by the Goldsmiths' Centre to discuss what, in the most democratic and transparent manner, delegates considered to be the most important key issues around industry ethics, the environment and sustainability at both at macro and micro levels were. Delegates such as Pippa Small, Jos Skeates, Stuart Pool, Peter Crump, Melanie Eddy, Thelma West, Yianni Melas, Karen Westland of the Scottish Goldsmiths Trust, Marcus McCallum, Charlotte Cornelius and many, many others were in attendance. Svend Wennick who drives the Copenhagen Commitment initiative

Jewellery Workshop Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced Projects at the K2 Academy of Jewellery

Jewellery Workshop Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced Projects Thursdays 9 Jan – 19 Mar 2020 Fridays 10 Jan – 20 Mar 2020 Who Is It For? This course is ideal for students who want to learn new techniques and practice their skills or for students who just want to broaden their jewellery knowledge. What Will Be Taught? Each term focuses on a different topic where students will be taught how to explore new designs and ideas within a set theme. The theme can be used for making a specialised piece, which can include different techniques like casting, findings and brooch backs,

Cooksongold Coronavirus Statement

In a statement issued on Tuesday 31st March Cooksongold issued the following statement regardign trading: "Over the last few weeks, we have announced a number of changes to our business operation, working hard to balance what is right for our staff, our customers and the wider jewellery trade. We are constantly reviewing the situation with the latest government information, the feedback from our teams and customers, assessing if we can continue to take and despatch orders in a safe way. Whilst the UK Government has said online retailers can and should operate as normal, we no longer feel this is the

Baselworld 2020

Baselworld 2020 Basel Exhibition Centre, Switzerland  30th April - 5th May 2020 Baselworld is the world's foremost show for watches, jewellery, precious stones and related industries. It interconnects the industry’s top brands (including Rolex, Patek Philippe, Chopard, TAG Heuer, Hublot and Breitling), the most influential media and the world’s most important buyers. Baselworld is the exclusive platform on which the major watch and jewellery brands present the year’s innovations to an eagerly curious international audience. Everyone who wants to know what the latest trends are and how 2019 “ticks” will find the answers live and firsthand at Baselworld. Dates:  30th

MASTERMAKER experience with Shimell & Madden

MASTERMAKER experience with Shimell & Madden   Friday, 17th May 2024 A rare and wonderful opportunity! The extremely talented Luke Shimell and Emma Madden are our May MasterMakers on Friday 17 May. What will you experience with Shimell & Madden? During this special event Emma and Luke will bring a wealth of expert in-depth knowledge, skill, craftsmanship and passion. You’ll hear Emma and Luke talk about their individual career journeys, working as a partnership and how they defined their unique and instantly recognisable style. You’ll see their beautiful maquettes, learn more about their processes, and how they make their pieces with

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

'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

Get Ready for Laidback Luxe

 It's that time of year that leaves you in a bit of a style conundrum - relaxed laidback comfort for at-home mooching or showstopping glam for all those festive drinks and parties galore! Striking that perfect balance between comfort, quality and style is no easy feat which is why we've scouted the best laidback luxe looks for you this party season. Not everyone wants to go all out with the glitz and glamour of showstopping pieces dripping in colour, gemstones and glitter. Pieces that intrigue with subtle hints of chic design and detailing is exactly what designers have been tapping

The passing of industry stalwart Chris Sellors

It is with great sadness family jewellers C W Sellors announce the passing of their founder Christopher William Sellors. Surrounded by his family, Chris passed away in the early hours of Monday 4th September at Ashgate Hospice in Chesterfield where he had been receiving wonderful support and care from their fabulous team of staff and volunteers. Tracing back the success Chris made of his life and business, the journey started with a love of his Derbyshire surroundings and a passion to make his own jewellery designs using the locally sourced Blue John gemstone. What started as a hobby with early

MRE's Advanced Materials for the Future Conference

MRE's Advanced Materials for the Future Conference 23 - 24 April 2024 Business Design Centre, London Returning in its 10th year, MRE's Advanced Materials for the Future Conference. Full of new insights about material research and innovations taking place across the UK. Find targeted seminars on a range of cutting-edge areas such as materials for net zero across a number of sectors. This event enables collaboration between industry and academic communities. The event is sponsored by The Henry Royce Institute. What can you expect? We are planning for targeted seminars on a range of cutting-edge areas such as materials for

Delicate Like Iron

Delicate Like Iron Jewellery from a private collection 16 July 2021 through 6 February 2022 In the period from the late 18th to the mid-19th century, what is called iron jewellery was very popular: elaborate necklaces, bracelets, pendant earrings, brooches and even rings, filigreed like lace – yet cast from iron. The pieces’ unobtrusive material, clear-cut formal idiom and somewhat inaccessible character reflect the values embraced by society back then: constancy, modesty and reticence. In line with the taste of the time, they feature elements from Gothic architecture or floral ornamental motifs from classical antiquity, such as palmettes, acanthus and

Perfection and Passion - 130 years of the Wellendorff Manufacture

Perfection and Passion - 130 years of the Wellendorff Manufacture Pforzheim Jewellery Museum 11 March - 1 October 2023 The art of jewellery making, whose lines of tradition in technology and design reach back to antiquity, interpreted in a modern way and refined further - this is what the jewellery manufacturer Wellendorff stands for. In 2023, the family business will celebrate its 130th anniversary. To mark the occasion, Pforzheim’s Jewellery Museum is looking back at the individual decades since 1893. For each decade, a precious object from the Wellendorff company that exemplifies its time will be on display. As interventions

Fair Luxury Open House

Fair Luxury Open House Wednesday 18th January ,  2:30 PM Online Fair Luxury Open House: Inclusion in the industry: what it means to be an LGBTQIA+ person within the jewellery profession In the historically conservative world of jewellery, we want to examine and shed light on the challenges being faced by and positive contributions made by, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, both as industry professionals and also our potential customers. In this Open House panel discussion, we will explore the challenges; from the lack of representation to the use of language and self-awareness of learned behaviours and biases, as well

OBSESSED!

Over the month of November the biennial jewellery festival OBSESSED! will take place in various cities across the Netherlands writes Ilaria Ruggiero. OBSESSED! unites the best jewellery-related events – museum and gallery exhibitions, talks, fairs, book presentations and artist open studios – into one intriguing programme put together by  Current Obsession . The second, 2019 edition of OBSESSED! Jewellery Festival brings together independent artists, galleries and cultural institutions from across the Netherlands in celebration of Jewellery. United. Jewellery. United. is a new paradigm in jewellery discourse. It broadens the scope of what is seen as jewellery in relation to other creative fields and

Top Jewellery Brands To Shop in 2020

When it comes to selecting your favourite pieces of jewellery, it's a bit like picking your favourite fragrance - personal.  Some will always opt for golden showstoppers, others will love nothing but silver whilst others may prefer the mix and match of bright colours and different textures. Whilst the majority of us will vary on our top jewellery picks, what remains the same for everyone is the need for our jewellery accessories to suit our personality. Whether you're more partial to a chic and classic style or prefer the glitz and glam of eye-popping drama, there's nothing like wearing a

Q&A: Wallace Chan

Wallace Chan is a world-renowned jewellery maker and innovator. After leaving school at 13, and becoming a jewellers apprectice, he opened his own workshop in 1974. His 45 years (and counting) in the industry has been landmarked by innovation. His breakthrough techniques have revolutionised the jewellery industry, notably taming titanium for use in high jewellery and creating unbreakable porcelain. He answers the Benchpeg Q&A... What’s your name, and what do you for a living? WC: I am Wallace Chan, a jewellery creator and sculptor. How did you come to work in the jewellery industry? WC: I began as a gemstone [youtube

Carmarthen School of Art Virtual Graduate Show 2020

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

Experts share insight on non-essential retail shops reopening and provide reassurance on how to shop safely

This week, all non-essential retail shops re-opened after 12 weeks of closure since the COVID-19 outbreak. Hundreds of thousands of non-essential retail shops across England are set to reopen including Shopping centres and shops will look and operate differently compared to three months ago, when the public were last shopping in them.  To inform the public on what to expect and showcase the new changes that have been implemented, shopping expert and TV star Gok Wan along with media doctor Dr Zoe Williams were granted early access to some stores on London’s iconic Oxford Street to find out more before they

Mastery The European Prize for Applied Arts

Mastery -  The European Prize for Applied Arts 24.11.2024 → 16.02.2025 Belgium Initiated in 2009, the European Prize for Applied Arts aims to reward the best creations of contemporary expression in applied arts and artisanal design. From November 24, 2024 to February 16, 2025, a major exhibition bringing together some of the best European creators in the field of contemporary applied arts opens its doors at the Anciens Abattoirs in Mons. A 6th edition that will bring together 58 artists from 16 European countries, for around a hundred unique works exhibited.  The exhibition aims to offer the best of what

News Edit: 17 November 2024

A curated edit of this week's national and international jewellery news... This Is What It’s Like to Sleep Above a Jewelry Store in Paris Harpers Bazaar reports: At 1, Place Vendôme, you can stay a little while inside the glittering, glamorous world of Chopard. www.harpersbazaar.com These diamond jewellery collections whisper, not shout Vogue reports: You’ve no doubt heard the terms 'demure', 'mindful' and 'quiet luxury' bandied about recently. Understatement is the mood of the times, as proven by these jewellery collections that wear their luxury with a whisper. vogue.sg The Round Up: Statement Crystal Jewellery Sheerlux reports: From fringe earrings

Q&A: Fei Liu

Fei Liu was the first Chinese born student to attend the School of Jewellery, Birmingham, moving specifically from China to attend the historical jewellery school. Some twenty years later he is the founder of an eponymously named multi award winning jewellery brand of international repute. He answers the Benchpeg Q&A... What’s your name, and what do you for a living? My name is Fei Liu. I established my own brand, Fei Liu Fine Jewellery, which allows me to share my art through jewellery, and enjoy the perks of gem hunting. How did you come to work in the jewellery industry?

Crafting Our Future Together

Crafting Our Future Together - The Goldsmiths’ Centre Grant The Goldsmiths’ Centre’s mission is to work with individuals and organisations to protect and advance the skills and future of goldsmithing in the UK. What kind of projects do we support? We look to partner with and fund others who share our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and our passion to close our industry's skills gap. By working together, we want you to maximise the impact of your grant and create ripples of change.  We invite you to submit proposals that help you or others to: Empower marginalised groups and individuals:  through the act of designing

Jewellery Merchandising Workshop with Cory Barrett and Charlie Thomas

Jewellery Merchandising Workshop with Cory Barrett and Charlie Thomas Sarabande Foundation, London 19 November 2019 Without a doubt, a fine piece of jewellery makes ones heart flutter and face gleam in awe. And whilst we cannot deny that the jewellery itself plays a part in inviting such a reaction, the additional, understated elements of merchandising are what make a piece of jewellery truly stunning. Led by Cory Barrett, ex-visual director of Tiffany and now Founder and Creative Director of CBGC Creative Industries Ltd and consultant art director Charlie Thomas, who has worked with many luxury brands, this provoking and informative talk will

GIA’s Knowledge Discussion Captures the Importance of Sustainability and Ethics

If you have ever wondered, “what does sustainability mean in jewellery and why should we care?” then GIA’s (Gemological Institute of America) recent Knowledge Session, where experts offer a trove of knowledge based on their experience and expertise, has answers for you. The webinar offered insights into consumer demand for ethically sourced materials, the importance of sustainability and ethics, and transparency in the gem and jewelry supply chain. A recording of the panel discussion is available  here . This eye-opening discussion was moderated by author and journalist Melanie Grant, who expanded on topics discussed in her book, "

Open Days at West Dean

Open Days at West Dean Saturday 8 February 2020 West Dan College, Chichester Book your place at open day and see for yourself why 97% of students would recommenstudying at West Dean College of Arts and Conservation (2018 student survey). A visit to the College is the perfect opportunity to: Meet the tutors and discuss study options See the large studios, workshops and  brand new  science facilities Tour the student accommodation and library Chat with current students about student life and what it's really like to study here Explore the historic interiors used for site-specific work Find out more about

New Designers 2024

Biodegradable pregnancy tests, spiced egg homeware, modular trainers and ocean waste jewellery: what to see at New Designers 2024 New Designers returns to the Business Design Centre in London for its 39th edition from 26 – 29 June and 3 – 6 July 2024 (tickets available now). Championing the best up-and-coming talent the UK has to offer, it unites over 3,000 design graduates from more than 100 university courses across multiple disciplines. Alongside showcasing their creativity and innovations, this annual event serves as a melting pot for new ideas and trends – and this year is no exception. Amidst a

Wallace Chan to show never-seen-before brooch as part of inaugural TEFAF Online

“When I first saw butterflies, as a child, I did not know that butterflies were called butterflies. I asked my mother, ‘what are these flying colours?’ Since then, butterflies have always been flying colours in my eyes.” Jewellery artist and innovator Wallace Chan will showcase ‘In Love with Spring’ for the first time as part of the inaugural TEFAF Online. In line with the fair’s singular “masterpiece” format, Chan presents an exceptional brooch that exemplifies his unique aesthetic, gift for storytelling and technical genius.  ‘In Love with Spring’, created in 2014, conveys Chan’s vision of “flying colours” with meticulous gemstone

Stephen Einhorn Launches Small Signet Jewellery Collection

Combining style, elegance and history, the signet ring is a unique piece of jewellery. Stephen Einhorn’s new unisex Small Signet Collection has all the design sensibilities of his original Signet Collection, it is simply smaller in size.  Stephen has always been particularly drawn to signet rings, combining as they do his two passions for classic design and functionality. After all, what could be better than something that is not only beautiful, but could enable the wearer to leave their mark on the world? “The inspiration behind my new collection all stemmed from my first signet ring. I wanted to create a

A gift, an idea and some generosity

Benchpeg has met Ebba Goring a few times now. She has a generosity of spirit which shines through as soon as you meet her. You can feel the warmth of personality she emits as you approach her to say hello. She’s also a fiercely intelligent woman which is conveyed through carefully considered words, a warm countenance and an extraordinary vision for what could be. But she’s also a person of action, and these attributes very rarely collide in a single person. As CEO of the Scottish Goldsmiths Trust (SGT) she is in an enviable leadership position within an entire country

Join FORGE as its Open House!

Discover how you can be part of our community, how to get involved and what opportunities there are for you. Have a look around and ask questions any time on Thursday 6th April between 11am - 4pm.  Register your attendance here , FORGE was born out of our founder’s passion to celebrate Hatton Garden’s heritage, promote UK design and protect craft skills, by offering business support and affordable workspace to Artisans and future talent. Our motto is ‘enriching lives through creativity’ and at the heart of that is the belief that creativity is not only inspirational and nurturing but helps

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

Wax Carving and Delft Clay Casting Course - Brighton

Wax Carving And Delft Clay Casting Course - Brighton Print Werks, Brighton BN2  14 October - 18 November 2019 Objectives To learn or refine skills in wax carving with the objective of learning casting in house, using Delft Clay with the option of addition of adding gemstones to your designs.   You will be guided through how to carve wax, adapt carving tools to suite your needs, what the limitations and flexibility of carving wax and refining your skills.   You will be shown and will yourself learn how to use Delft Clay to create moulds into which you will pour

Privacy Policy

Thank you for visiting Benchpeg. This policy explains what information we receive from you when you visit our website and how we use it. When you use our site, you are agreeing to this policy. At Benchpeg, we are committed to maintaining the trust and confidence of the visitors to our website and subscribers to our newsletter. We want you to know that Benchpeg is not into selling, renting or trading email lists with other companies and businesses for marketing purposes, or playing fast and lose with data - we never have been and never will be. Here you’ll find

Precious ?

Precious ? 28 members from over 10 countries will take part in the Precious Collective's Launch Exhibition in Plymouth, 16th to 28th April 2019 Born in November 2017 with a membership of over 120 members from 30 countries worldwide it is a very eclectic and diverse group of makers which now boasts over 4 thousand Instagram followers. Previously solely social media based; Ocean Studios will now host the physical launch of the collective. 28 selected members will present what promises to be a very exciting and possibly challenging Art-Jewellery exhibition. If precious means 'of high cost or worth: not to

London Fashion Week September 2017

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

Q&A: Tiffany Browne

Tiffany Browne is a Micro Diamond Setter and has worked on some of the most intricate and luxurious pieces which adorn London's Bond Street. With an unconventional entry into industry, she answers the Benchpeg Q&A. What’s your name, and what do you for a living? TB: My name is Tiffany Browne, and I'm (mostly) a diamond setter specialising in very fine, close pavé work which I do under microscope. How did you come to work in the jewellery industry? TB: It wasn't the obvious choice for me! I started out studying languages and have an MA in translation. Meeting my husband, whom

Introducing 'Living Coral' Pantone's Colour of the Year 2019

Colour-giant, Pantone, have proclaimed ‘Living Coral’ the colour of the year for 2019. With each passing year, it seems that Pantone’s influence becomes increasingly ubiquitous; permeating all aspects of marketing, design and culture.  Here, Benchpeg puts together a guide to the colour, its meaning and possible colour combinations to equip you with what you need to know as a jeweller.  The inspiration ‘Living coral’ prescribes a return to nature in a world more and more engulfed and shaped by technology. Pantone say: “Pantone 16-1546 Living Coral emits the desired, familiar and energizing aspects of colour found in nature. In its

Q&A: Gianluca De Girolamo

Gianluca De Girolamo is a hugely experienced photographer who cut his teeth in the photography world in packshot studios taking pictures of branded goods for commercial use. He now has a reputation second to none for advertising and creative moodshots to commercial, editorial, e-commerce and product photography for the fashion and jewellery industries. He was previously the Head Fashion & Creative Photographer at The Packshot Company, where he worked with clients such as Vivienne Westwood, Swarovski and Burberry. He now heads up Adshot, which specialised in creative jewellery photography. He answers the Benchpeg Q&A. What’s your name, and what do

Bringing Back Brooches for A/W '19

Big, bold, bodacious and dripping in retro vibes, the return of brooches is one of the most fun and surprising jewellery trends for A/W '19. Be it surfer-style corn shells, regal pearls or badass chokers, we know by now that what is old becomes new again, and for brooches, this once outdated accessory is set to become the  must-have  accessory for Autumn fashionistas. Combined with the arrival of heritage-inspired straight legs suits and cardigans galore upon the A/W runways, quirky oversized brooches complete the cosy, practical grandma-esque aesthetic that designers have favoured this Autumn. For those of us wanting to

The Hottest Earwear for Spring 2019

It's no secret that bags, scarfs and shoes take centre stage attention when it comes to runway accessories but this season we'll see powerful jewellery hogging the limelight. As the saying goes, the bigger the better and that's exactly what designers have kept in mind when it comes to this season's earwear.  Eye-catching droppers marked the finishing look to all ensembles to come down the catwalks, turning many a head with their bright intricate detailing and bold sculptural shapes. Big head-turning earrings are nothing new when it comes to jewellery collections but this year, there are several distinct takes on the statement

Vanilla Ink Open Day

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

Go Bold, Go Big, Go Beautiful

What better way to kick off a brand new year than with a big, bright and colourful bang?​ This season, it's all about piling it up, layering it on and going for the real 'wow' factor when it comes to your accessories game. With collections rich in bold origami necklaces, statement candy coloured gemstone rings, designers have crafted their pieces to be worn in a mix , non-matching fashion. Wave goodbye to the dainty days of last year and hello to bold, brash and bright oversized jewellery. From clusters of rich colour to quirky designs interlaced with different textures and materials,

Q&A: Ed Hole

Ed Hole is Head of CAD Design and 3D Printing at Birmingham based jewellery industry giant Weston Beamor Ltd. He has been at the company since 2003, and for some 14 years he has been creating bespoke pieces and new product development lines for a wide variety of clients. He is an expert CAD Designer and 3D Print specialist and has built up a team specialising in the use of cutting edge technology at the firm. Ed has a BA (Hons) in Industrial Design and Technology from Loughborough University. He answers the Benchpeg Q&A. What’s your name, and what do

Jada Dubai launch £200,000 diamond encrusted shoe

Jada Dubai has launched a new collection that could happily solve a heap of 'What should I buy for Valentine's' dilemmas but cheapskates might like to look away now since the Maison's piece de resistance will cost just shy of £220,000. The “Imperative of Royalty” collection is a range of unique jewel encrusted high heeled shoes with the Masterpiece the first in the world to be bejeweled with 54 carats of white diamonds and 416,2 carats white sapphires.  A mix of yellow gold and platinum has been used inside and on the soles and having taken an entire year to

Karl & Lisa @ Gallery Funaki

Karl & Lisa Karl Fritsch and Lisa Walker 14 May - 8 June, 2019 Gallery Funaki, Melbourne, Australia Karl Fritsch and Lisa Walker have been at the forefront of contemporary jewellery for over 20 years, constantly pushing and questioning what jewellery is and can be. They met while studying at the prestigious Academy of Fine Arts, Munich, in the 1990s and moved back to Lisa's home country, New Zealand, in 2010. Anyone with even a passing interest in the field is familiar with the rich ground these two artists have covered in terms of jewellery's meanings, materials, ideas and forms.  Karl Fritsch

Karl & Lisa

For those who are lucky enough to be in Melbourne, Australia, there is still more than a week to visit the Karl & Lisa exhibition at the Funaki Gallery, a double solo show dedicated to two of the most important names in the world of contemporary jewellery writes Ilaria Ruggiero. Lisa Walker necklace, 2019, fabric, stuffing, thread, acrylic paint Lisa Walker necklace, 2019, merino, stuffing, acrylic paint, thread Karl Fritsch and Lisa Walker have been at the forefront of contemporary jewellery for over 20 years, constantly pushing and questioning what jewellery is and can be. They met while studying at the prestigious

Desire Jewellery & Silversmithing Fair 2017

Desire Fair @ Winchester 2017 Desire has become firmly established as the “must visit” event for its stunning collection and unrivalled choice of contemporary jewellery and stylish silverware.  The fairs present highly talented exhibitors who have been selected for their superb and innovative craftsmanship and have a genuine passion for the work they create.  See and purchase from an exciting range from both emerging British talent as well as more established designer makers.  Visitors to Desire have often commented on how they welcome the opportunity of discussing a purchase direct with the maker, and listening to what inspires them in

Behind the scenes making of the Ottewill Silversmiths ICC Cricket World Cup

The 12th edition of the ICC Cricket World Cup officially begins today. For the first time in ten years, it will be hosted by England and Wales. This year, 10 teams will compete over the ICC Cricket World Cup trophy-  replicas of which have beautifully crafted by Ottewill Silversmiths.  Leading up to the event, the trophy has travelled the globe, on what has been dubbed the ''most connected Trophy Tour ever.'' A good thing then that Ottewill Silversmiths are no stranger to prestigious commissions, having worked on many pieces for  The Henley Royal Regatta, as well as the FA Cup [youtube

Raw Pearls Celebrate After Record Breaking IJL

Raw Pearls, one of the UK’s leading pearl jewellery suppliers, have announced that they had their most successful IJL ever after exhibiting there earlier this week for what was their 6 th  year at Olympia.   Many visitors took advantage of the discounted prices Raw Pearls had on offer as part of their huge clearance sale at the show. They have reported that the most popular items were cultured Tahitian strings, nucleated freshwater strings both round and baroque, and also, in line with recent fashion trends, larger baroque freshwater strings. Director, Miranda Raw went on to say “We were thrilled with

Friday Workshop at K2 Academy Of Contemporary Jewellery

Friday Workshop at K2 Academy Of Contemporary Jewellery, London Intermediate & Advanced Projects 10 Week Course - Fridays 11 Jan - 22 Mar 2019 Who is it for? This course is ideal for students who don’t want to commit to a certificated course or who have finished an accredited course but want to learn and practice more, or for students who just want to broaden their skills. What will be taught? Each term focuses on a different topic where students will be taught how to explore new designs and ideas within a set theme. The theme can be used for

Intermediate & Advanced Workshop Projects at K2 Academy

Intermediate & Advanced Workshop Projects at K2 Academy 10 Week Course - Fridays 20 April 2018 - 6 July 2018 What will be taught? Each term focuses on a different topic where students will be taught how to explore new designs and ideas within a set theme. This term we concentrate on casting with an overall theme of 'Food glorious food' and we will start off with an inspirational research into food in the widest sense. From the food itself, to food packaging, cooking utensils etc.  This theme can then used for making a specialised piece, which can include different

Q&A: Mary Michel

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

Q&A: Olivia Norman

Olivia Norman is Head of Jewellery at Jessica McCormack Ltd , which has its HQ in Carlos Place , Mayfair, London. She oversees the in-house fine jewellery production for the design led brand, as well as having oversight of main business functions. Olivia was formerly at Shaun Leane for seven years as Commercial Manager and has extensive experience in strategic planning and business development, retail and sales, design, product development and production. She is a graduate of the School of Jewellery in Birmingham.  She answers the Benchpeg Q&A. What’s your name, and what do you for a living? ON:  Olivia

Mari Funaki Award Announce 2018 Winners

Benedikt Fischer, has been announced as the winner of the 2018 Mari Funaki Award for Contemporary Jewellery in the Established category for his series of five Pearly Whites brooches, made from shell, mother of pearl, remanium and sculpey. Benedikt receives A$8000 (£4,379.78) and his work will enter the collection of the National Gallery of Victoria (subject to approval of the Board of Trustees). The judges said of this work: "What stands out in these pieces is the freshness and humour, as well as the incredible material resolution and skill. It’s difficult to work with shell and create something that isn’t

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

Gang of thieves raid Cotswold Arts and Craft Museum

A gang of thieves launched a raid on the award-winning Court Barn Arts and Craft Museum and in what looks to be a premeditated crime, took off with a number of silver pieces dating back to 1900. The items taken range from pieces by architect and designer Charles Robert Ashbee (1863-1942), Hart Silversmiths who joined Ashbee in Campden in 1902 and who still make silver today and designer Robert Welch (1929-2000). They include a silver pendant in the form of a butterfly with wings of enamel and a blue enamel pendant, c1902. The Museum opened in 2007 to  preserve and

Meet the Experts at Jewellery and Watch 2018

In partnership with  Jewellery & Watch , taking place on the 4 th  until the 8 th  of February, the  NAJ  will be hosting five ‘ Meet the Expert ’ events on the NAJ stand (Hall 17 U22/W23). The sessions have been devised in a direct response to what is happening in the business environment and will offer solutions to businesses wanting to gain competitive advantage during 2018. A different expert will be on the stand each day of the show and available for 15-minute, one-to-one appointments from 11am-12pm and 1pm-2pm. Sessions with the experts are pre-bookable, you can read

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

Gemfields and Fabergé Unveil Laser Inscribed Emerald

Gemfields and Fabergé have unveiled what is believed to be the world’s first emerald, laser-inscribed with traceability information and a personalised message. The 4.11 carat, lively green emerald-cut gemstone was mined at Gemfields’ Kagem emerald mine in Zambia. The gem was then acquired and mounted by Fabergé as a custom-crafted item for the successful winner of a charity auction held by the charity mothers2mothers at Salma Hayek Pinault’s London home in November. As part of the prize, the winners will also travel to Gemfields’ Kagem mine in Zambia to see for themselves the very source of their unique emerald, as

Fair Luxury presents at IJL 2019

Fair Luxury present @ IJL 2019 Since its inception in 2016 the Fair Luxury collective has provided a platform of promotion, information and education surrounding the complex topics of ethics and sustainability in today’s jewellery market. Bringing such challenging and ever evolving subjects to a wider audience requires support from our dynamic industry – therefore the Fair Luxury collective are proud to be once again presenting at International Jewellery London for the third year. Fair Luxury would like you to join them at IJL’s ‘Knowledge Hub’ on Tuesday 3 September for what promises to be a diverse discussion of latest

'Digital Meets Handmade' New York Symposium Review

PhD researcher Karen-Ann Dicken writes a review for Benchpeg of the recent symposium held at the Fashion Institute of Technology, New York - Digital meets Handmade. In May this year I was fortunate enough to attend the ‘Digital meets Handmade’ - Jewellery of the 21 st  Century symposium at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York. Professor Wendy Yothers of FIT organised the event in conjunction with Alba Cappellieri from Politecnico di Milano. This three day symposium was a brilliant collection of researches, speakers and industry specialists. All with the linked theme of what the world of jewellery looks like now we

Precious Pearl for Those Born in June

What better way is there to celebrate the fact that we're exactly half way through the year than with a little organic charm for all those June babies out there?! Those born in June are lucky enough to have not just one but three birthstones associated with their birthday; pearls, alexandrite's and moonstones. Unlike most other gemstones that are found within the Earth, Pearls are unique in that they have an organic origin. Pearls are often either created inside the shells of living creatures such as clams and oysters or occur naturally in the mollusks of freshwater species in rivers

Modern Life, Gill Wing

Modern Life… Gill Wing Gallery 13 – 28 February 2018 Modern life is Gill Wing’s ‘New Year’s Revolution’, it's not about dramatic changes, vowing to be better, cleaner, healthier or trying to live up to an impossible ideal. Modern Life for 2018 is about appreciating what already exists; the imperfect, the mundane. Being thankful for your home, wherever it may be, because you have one. Being thankful rather than guilty for your bad habits because you have the freedom to indulge them. Finding beauty and humour in everyday situations. The gallery has selected 6 jewellers for their unique work investigating

Coin Jewellery: The Antique Pieces for Spring

This season is all about throwing light back to archaeological treasures and bringing to life antique coins and medallions with modern interpretations. Given a modern twist of light and delicate chains that are perfect for being worn solo or layered with an array of other chains, coin jewellery is every fashion friend's favourite look for Spring. Dangling from dainty hoops or bundled into a shimmery bib necklace, spring medallions and coins are a simple way of adding a touch of antique demure with elegant simplicity. What makes this Spring trend such a money grabber is its diversity as an accessory.

Wayne Meeten wins another Gold at the #JewelleryOscars

Internationally renowned silversmith Wayne Meeten picked up another gong at the #JewelleryOscars, the Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Awards, this month. Meeten’s piece, ‘Spirit of Energy’ took Gold in the three dimensional finished piece category. The work was a commission made for a client “who was having a house built in the West Country, in Devon by the Estuary. It was designed to be placed under their new glass staircase.” The silversmith said. The  client’s design brief was to design a centre piece with the wonders of the sun as its reference. My client chose their building plot, what will eventually

Wild Things to be let loose on London

A new exhibition of luxury avant-garde fine jewellery, tantalisingly known as Wild Things, is coming to London later this month following a launch at the exclusive 2018 COUTURE Las Vegas in the first stop of what is expected to be a summer tour of Europe. Created by founder of the House of Luxury Elio D’Anna, in collaboration with COUTURE, Wild Things is a 'wild and beautiful' collection of six luxury but progressive jewellery brands, all resonating with cosmopolitan younger buyers keen to be associated with contemporary jet set labels conveying attitude and identity. They include the Indian Lebanese Mukhi Sisters,

Electroforming Jewellery Course at K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Electroforming Jewellery at K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery 3 Day Course 23 Mar 2018- 25 Mar 2018 What will be taught? In this three-day workshop, you will be introduced to the electroforming technique, to create unique jewellery pieces, small objects and samples in copper. The course is designed to discover the potential of the technique as it allows you to create intricate, complex three-dimensional shapes. You can produce unique, hollow and lightweight pieces which cannot be done in any other technique. First you will learn about the principles of electroforming. We will then select suitable objects, from plastic ready-mades, to found

Dazera Exhibition

Dazera Exhibition One of London’s best kept artistic secrets, The Exhibitionist Hotel in South Kensington, will once more host the Dazera exhibition for creative fine jewellery this year on 30 November to 2 December. Founded by jewellery designer Domini Hogg, Dazera is dedicated to raising the profiles of emerging artists and creative designers working with precious stones and materials. According to Domini the vibrancy of the hotel’s ever-changing artwork is what initially attracted her to exhibit there. “It is important for original jewellery to be seen within an artistic context rather than in the sterile environment of most shops. The

Jewellery Surgery at K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Jewellery Surgery at K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery Let us help you solve your technical and design problems 1 or 2 Day Course - Saturdays 10 and/or 17 Mar 2018 What will be taught? As a maker we all face challenges from time to time: We get stuck with our technical skills, progress or design development and wish we had someone to talk to and discuss it with! On this course you will have the possibility to get advise on the practical and design problems you come across when making jewellery. It will focus on your specific project, your work in

Traditional to Contemporary Wax Carving and Wax Modelling

Traditional to Contemporary Wax Carving and Wax Modelling 6 Week Course - Saturdays 20 Jan 2018 - 3 Mar 2018 (half-term 24 Feb) What will be taught? This course is designed to explore working with different waxes such as the traditional carving wax but also modelling waxes used in the jewellery and dental casting industries. You will learn traditional techniques with an experimental approach to working with waxes and we will encourage you to combine them with unusual materials and stones etc, to explore the boundaries of lost wax casting. You will learn how the lost wax casting process works

Future Craft Conference: Entrepreneurship or Enterprise?

Future Craft Conference: Entrepreneurship or Enterprise? The University for the Creative Arts is liaising with leading institutions to instigate and explore 'Future Craft'. The first in a series biennial conferences will offer an opportunity to discuss, engage, debate, publish and disseminate new research starting with craft issues within the Jewellery and Silversmithing industries.   The opening conference seeks to provide a framework for a discussion on and around ‘Entrepreneurship or Enterprise?’ By celebrating present achievements and ideas we can look forward to exploring what the future might hold.  Possibilities for the next ‘Future Craft’ conference to be hosted by Queensland College

Everyday imperfections celebrated at new Modern Life exhibition

A new jewellery exhibition dedicated to 'everyday imperfections' opens at the Gill Wing Gallery in Islington, London this weekend featuring designers well known for their unique and thought-provoking perspectives. Modern Life, launching on Saturday 13th January and Sunday 14th January,  celebrates prosaic everyday objects and routines, such as walking to work in the sunshine, squashed coffee cups and even cigarettes, incorporating the designer's unique take on their subject. It is about appreciating what already exists, the imperfect, the ordinary, explained Jade Mellor, a member of the Gill Wing design team. "It's not about dramatic changes, vowing to be better, cleaner,

Precious Peridot: The Birthstone of August

With a zesty lime-green glow and gorgeous olive undertones, Peridot is the striking birthstone for all those celebrating their birthdays in adventurous August! The gorgeous green vibrancy of Peridot is what sets it apart from all the gemstones aside from the fact that it is only one of a handful of gemstones that occurs in only one colour. Whilst peridot is famous for its Pantone 'greenery' hues, the plethora of green tones can vary quite dramatically. From pale mint greens, woody olive tones to sparkling bright lime highlights, the signature colour of peridot resides entirely from its internal chemical composition

Q&A: David Fowkes

David Fowkes has been running his own atelier, David Fowkes Jewellery, for the last 25 years. He specialises in bespoke, avant garde jewellery designs, painstakingly sourcing unique stones, cut and faceted by specialist artisan stone cutters making use of geometric lines and natural inclusions within the stones themselves. He has exhibited regularly at the Goldsmiths' Fair and is based in a Grade I listed Coach House, set in the grounds of the 18th Century Thoresby Hall, Nottinghamshire.  He answers the Benchpeg Q&A. What’s your name, and what do you for a living? DF:  David Fowkes, I spend my day playing

Appointment: Julie Driscoll announced Managing Director, Pure London

Pure London, the fashion buying trade show, has announced the appointment of Julie Driscoll as Managing Director with immediate effect. Previously the show’s Portfolio Director, Julie’s promotion to Managing Director will drive a host of exciting changes and new launches for the February show, taking place from the 11th – 13th February 2018. Julie Driscoll said of the appointment: “It is a very exciting time in the evolution of Pure London and I’m looking forward to working with our fantastic team, our partners, suppliers and exhibitors to continue to improve on  what we offer, making Pure London truly unmissable. Our AW18/19 manifesto sets

Appointments: Julie Driscoll announced Managing Director, Pure London

Pure London, the fashion buying trade show, has announced the appointment of Julie Driscoll as Managing Director with immediate effect. Previously the show’s Portfolio Director, Julie’s promotion to Managing Director will drive a host of exciting changes and new launches for the February show, taking place from the 11th – 13th February 2018. Julie Driscoll said of the appointment: “It is a very exciting time in the evolution of Pure London and I’m looking forward to working with our fantastic team, our partners, suppliers and exhibitors to continue to improve on  what we offer, making Pure London truly unmissable. Our AW18/19 manifesto sets

Strike Gold this November

If there was ever a time to wear something sparkly, special and striking, the season of festive frivolities, parties and celebrations would be it! With the arrival of November and her sweeping chill in the air,  your inbox will become one of popularity as  nights of festive fun and mischief begin to come knocking! With that in mind, it's time to add a  touch of delicate glitz, glamour and charm to your holiday look and what better way than with a strike of timeless gold?! A touch of gold provides a classic look of elegance that is gorgeously feminine when worn

Fair Luxury Presents, Goldsmiths’ Centre

Fair Luxury Presents Goldsmiths’ Centre 18th September – 27th October 2017 This first of-its-kind exhibition will demonstrate a new view of what it means to offer ‘fair luxury’ in a contemporary and evolving marketplace. It will explore how fine jewellery can be made all the more exquisite when provenance, ethics and responsible business practice work in synergy with design and craftsmanship. Fair Luxury Presents aims to reach a broad audience with interest in luxury jewellery, UK craftsmanship and ethical sourcing. Building on the overwhelming success of two years of industry focused events, Fair Luxury now bring their independent and catalytic

University of Brighton MA Craft Graduation Show 2018

Work by Harriet Laurence will be on display University of Brighton MA Craft Graduation Show 15 September to 6 November 2018 This display of exciting, contemporary work by MA students at the University of Brighton ranges from jewellery and ceramics to enamelling, polymers and metal work. The show gives you a chance to see what inspires the students, whether experimenting with waste materials, connecting to landscapes or collaborating with particular groups of people. Tickets Free admission Venue Hove Museum & Art Gallery, 19 New Church Road, Hove BN3 4AB Exhibition run 15 September to 6 November 2018 More Information brightonmuseums.org.uk

ILJ KickStart winners announced

The lives and careers of six talented young jewellery designers are poised for lift off after they were selected as beneficiaries of the 2018 IJL KickStart initiative. Chosen for their 'strongly individual stories' the six will get premium exhibition spots at International Jewellery London 2018 in addition to a raft of marketing and business tips from ILJ and their sponsors The National Association of Jewellers to fast track their young careers. The benefits of winning this accolade will ensure they get a head start in what has become a challenging and tricky commercial environment. These benfits include a mentoring package,

1 Year Contemporary Jewellery Course at City Lit with Elizabeth Bone

1 Year Contemporary Jewellery Course at City Lit with Elizabeth Bone 17 January 2019 - 21 November 2019  Delve into the world of contemporary jewellery and develop your skills in drawing, design, critical thinking and technical skills. This rigorous, multi-disciplinary, certificated, level two equivalent year long course is suitable for intermediate to  advanced jewellers. Get to grips with a series of practical projects which will culminate in an end of year public exhibition.  Course Dates 17 January 2019 - 21 November 2019  Time 10:30 - 16:30  Location Keeley Street  Tutor Elizabeth Bone For more information www.citylit.ac.uk/courses What is the course

Colour in Jewellery Summer Workshop - Italy

Colour in Jewellery Summer Workshop - Italy Colour has got me. I no longer need to chase after it. It has got me forever. I know it. That is the meaning of this happy hour. Colour and I are one. I am a painter.  -  Paul Klee What does it mean for us ? We will work with coloured pencils to express our personal idea of color. We can use pencils in different ways. The idea is to transform them into something else.  The workshop is aimed at students, artisans, artists, designers, teachers and anyone intends to get involved with

Step into super natural delights

When you think of fall and the beginnings of autumn delights, what immediately springs to mind? Leaves! As the world continues to turn, marking the arrival of a fresh new beginning and season, jewellery designers have taken inspiration from the earthy wonders of our world. Ethereal leaves, natural structures, organic shapes and deep, fiery gold figured heavily in the arrival of fall/winter 2018-2019 jewellery trends. The arrival of super natural pieces swathed in deep tones and swirls of gold, crystal and pearl radiate a whimsical, delicate, elusive and enigmatic look just in time for September. The fall fashion runways showcased

Q&A: Jos Skeates

Jos Skeates a Goldsmith and the Co-Founder, along with wife Alison, of the leading, multi award winning, Central London jewellery boutique EC One the Jewellers. He is also the Chairman of the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council. He answers the Benchpeg Q&A. What’s your name, and what do you for a living? JS: Jos Skeates, Goldsmith and owner of E.C.One the Jewellers.  How did you come to work in the jewellery industry? JS: Total chance. I was looking for a summer job when I was sixteen and saw an advert for an apprentice Diamond Mounter. I’ve never looked back.  How

Welcome to The Spring Garden Party

What would Spring be without the excitement of fresh blooms and buds poking their heads through making our weekend walks vibrant and pretty? Well, it looks like this season, designers are taking the excitement of nature and putting it right at the very heart of their runway designs. Flowers of all shapes, sizes, colours and textures were in abundance across the runways, adorning the models like draped vines of wild garden bundles. From small, delicate and dainty blossom to bold and dramatic oversized fauna, there's a take on this spring garden trend to meet the style and personality of everyone.

BRON - Ruudt Peters

Bron - Ruudt Peters Retrospective A  BRON  (source) is a beginning, a starting point. Different ‘things’ are bubbling up and coming out of sources, both literally as well as figuratively. In SOURCE, the retrospective exhibition of Ruudt Peters, the sources of his work are the main focus. Peters shares in this exhibition not only his work, but also what inspires him at the deepest level. Alchemy, nature, the human body, beauty, the subconscious, intuition, spirituality and sexuality; everything has been a source of inspiration and was the beginning of a quest for Peters. His starting point is his curiosity in the

Domino marry new collection with improved retailer support

Dominos new wedding ring collection has launched, with not only new styles to satiate customers varied tastes but also a swiss-army knife of business support services for retailers. The 2019 ring collection is set to impress the most minimal of customers, with plain bands at different widths, to the most maximal; with engraving, signet rings, and bespoke diamond coverage- and everyone in-between.  The increase in variety ensures end customers should be able to find what they desire within the collection. New styles include three new delicate diamond set styles, five new plain profiles, twenty-two new shaped and decorative designs, twelve

Take a tour of London Craft Week 2018

Jewellery is expected to play a major part in drawing in the crowds at the upcoming London Craft Week which starts on Wednesday May 9th amid what is regarded as a golden age of creative talent in Britain. The week-long event promises endless opportunities to network and share innovative ideas for anyone involved in designing, making or simply buying and wearing contemporary British jewellery. Throughout the five days, events will be hosted across a series of iconic venues across London by some of industry's most revered brands, including the Goldsmith Company which has teamed up with Fortnum & Mason to

Jewellery: Anthropological Perspectives Lecture by Max Carocci

K Presents: Jewellery - Anthropological Perspectives Lecture by Max Carocci At K Academy of Contemporary Jewellery, London 27 February 2019  |  18:00 - 20:00 Jewellery: Anthropological Perspectives What is the purpose of jewellery? How does jewellery function in culture? This lecture/presentation explores the reasons for making decorative artifacts. It explains how it operates in the world of symbolic communication showing how jewellery has a fundamental role to play in culture and society. Anthropologist Max Carocci will discuss jewellery from an anthropological viewpoints through lavish images of jewellery and decoration form around the world.  British Museum-based anthropologists Max Carocci has been

Award-Winning Jeweller Alex Monroe Announced As Keynote Speaker For Getting Started 2019

The Goldsmiths’ Centre, the UK’s leading charity for the professional training of goldsmiths, announced the keynote speaker for its business taster programme  Getting Started , which takes place from 7 – 11 January 2019, today. Award-winning jeweller Alex Monroe will deliver the keynote address giving an invaluable insight for recent graduates from UK Precious Metal or related courses into what it takes to set up successful creative careers.  Getting Started applications close this Wednesday 3 October 2018. This intensive free course supports talented jewellers and silversmiths to develop their own business or establish themselves as part of a larger company.

Hand Engraving Courses in London

Learn Hand Engraving in London This is a six week course taking place one Thursday per week from 6-9pm, starting 18 May 2017. Organised by the Hand Engravers Association, courses are held at Craft Central, London. Who is the course for? This course is aimed at all skill levels, from complete beginners, to improvers, to practiced metalsmiths wishing to build their engraving skill. What will I learn? During the hands-on, practical course students will learn from a highly skilled professional with many years of experience. The course has a maximum quota of just eight students allowing sessions to be tailored to suit

New Online Jewellery Platform ‘Vimanas’ Simplifies Selling Jewellery Online

Earn revenue from creative designs with ease using the brand new  Vimanas  platform for unique and innovative jewellery creators.  The  Vimanas  platform will allow people to shop, customise, design, and sell what they create using the one-of-a-kind online jewellery platform. Offering the greatest range of customisation options giving individuals creative freedom to truly express themselves with their jewellery, they make this possible with impressive user-friendly online tools and 3D printing techniques. Any budding jewellery designer will know all too well the potential hassle – not to mention expense – of getting their designs in the public domain and shipped for

WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017

The apprenticeship programme in the UK is undergoing its most significant revival in recent years, with the Government announcing its commitment to work with employers to create 3 million apprenticeships by 2020. For an industry that has been running apprenticeship programmes since 1334, when the Goldsmiths’ Company Apprenticeship Scheme launched, this announcement has been welcomed. But while many organisations offer highly respected apprenticeship programmes, what does it take to train a world class apprentice jeweller? Steven Jinks, the WorldSkills UK Training Manager for Jewellery, who is responsible for training three Goldsmiths’ apprentices in Squad UK for WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017, explains

Ring In The New Year With Smoulder, Style & Sass

With fine festivities, fabulous frolockings and filthy fun well under way and rocking round that glittering christmas tree it's time to turn our attention to one important date left in the diary; New Year's Eve darlings!  If there was ever a time to sparkle and shine it's would definately be the last night of 2016! What better way is there to ring in a brand new year of unknown memories then decking yourself out like a belated Christmas tree in your newly gifted boughs of crystals, silver, diamonds and all things glittery? With New Years tomfoolery comes celebratory crack, bang

“Exceptional” 3 Star Rating for leading Jewellery Trade Insurance Broker

Chartered Insurance Broker T H March will be able to celebrate its 130th anniversary with extra gusto later this year having been awarded an ‘Exceptional’ 3 star rating by independent customer service assessor; Investor in Customers (IIC). IIC conducts research and investigation into how well companies treat customers and staff. The highly detailed analysis carried out and the valuable insights gained by bravely allowing an independent third party to talk to customers and staff (at all levels) helps companies like T H March continue to improve on what they do. In order to achieve the ‘Exceptional’ 3 Star rating a

Contemporary Jewellery Classes with Jessica Turrell

This course will allow you to explore a contemporary approach to jewellery making using both traditional and alternative materials and techniques This 25 week course will encourage a contemporary approach to jewellery making and using both traditional and alternative materials and techniques. Students can choose to work on a series of set briefs or on individually negotiated projects. What will I learn? The course covers techniques including: silver soldering, saw piercing, surface texturing, forming, annealing, wire and sheet metal techniques, and making fittings and findings. The course will also cover the use of alternative materials such as wood, paper and

Rings

Rings, Craft Centre and Design Gallery - Leeds  Every year we select jewellers to display with us whose rings offer a unique alternative to what you might find out on the high street.  Stunning engagement and wedding rings, rings to mark special occasions or just a ring to wear every day; there’s something for everyone to enjoy.  Exhibition Run 14th January – 24th June 2017 Venue The Craft Centre & Design Gallery City Art Gallery The Headrow, Leeds West Yorkshire LS1 3AB www.craftcentreleeds.co.uk

Harriet Kelsall Awarded HSBC 'Retail Businesswoman of the Year'

This week jewellery designer Harriet Kelsall was awarded HSBC 'Retail Businesswoman of the Year' at the Forward Ladies Women in Business Awards 2016. Trailblazing and pioneering women from enterprise and business gathered at the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds for the grand final to celebrate each other’s achievements in what is one of the country’s biggest ever searches for successful women in business. Harriet founded her business – Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery - in 1998 and it is now recognised in the UK and across the world as a market leader in bespoke jewellery design, with over 20 national and

Top Drawer takes to the runway to present SS17 Trends

Design-led, international lifestyle event, Top Drawer, hosted its stand out Spring/Summer 17 (SS17) edition this January (15-17) at London Olympia. The must-see fashion show took centre stage presenting six key aesthetic trends for the upcoming SS17 season. The fashion show expertly showcased new directions in jewellery and accessories to inspire buyers to source with confidence, knowing what their customers will want to buy in the seasons ahead. Headline sponsor The Design Lab was the creative branding and strategy agency at the helm of this season’s catwalk. The dynamic fashion show featured key sponsors within the edit from Bahamian hand crafted

Introduction To Micro-Setting

Micro-setting applied to bespoke handmade jewellery can lead to spectacular results. Ideal for beginners, this course with highly experienced tutor Harry Forster-Stringer will help jewellers and stone setters to explore the advantages of micro-setting. Start to understand how to set up a specialist workbench, efficiently use a microscope, install GRS Air Gravers as well as prepare tools for optimum use.  Introduction To Micro-Setting Date: Sat 10 September 2016 Time: 9.30am – 4.30pm, £199   What: Experimental Workshop Venue: The Goldsmiths’ Centre, 42 Britton Street, London. EC1M 5AD www.goldsmiths-centre.org

Jeremy France rolls out the red carpet for Fei Liu

On Friday 21st October, Jeremy France Jewellers welcomed British Jewellery Designer of the Year, Fei Liu, to showcase his entire collection of award winning designs - officially launching his recent addition to the family jeweller’s exclusive brand list.  Guests were greeted with champagne and invited into the three-storey luxury showroom by a grand red carpet entrance; what else could one expect from a VIP ‘Meet the Designer’ soirée?! Situated at the very heart of Winchester High Street, there were whispers from passing shoppers that perhaps Royalty was inside! Fei was on hand all evening to introduce his collections, giving Jeremy’s

Watchfinder Clocks in with Brand New TV Advertising Campaign

Guerillascope is pleased to announce the launch of the new TV advertising campaign from Watchfinder, the UK’s leading online retailer of pre-owned luxury watches. The campaign, which aired live on August 8 , features on the likes of Sky News, Dave, the Sky Sports network, More 4, BT Sports, Discovery Channel and National Geographic, as part of a strategy targeting adults within the ABC1 demographic. Watchfinder specialises in the buying and selling of pre-owned luxury watches, with customers able to circumnavigate what can often be a stressful process by completing a simple online enquiry form. A preliminary quote is sent within one

Cutlery Design Challenge, Institute of Making and Worshipful Company of Cutlers

Earlier this year the Institute of Making and Worshipful Company of Cutlers launched a very exiting design challenge to design and make a new implement, tool or device for eating. The art, craft and science of what we eat and how we eat it has engaged civilisations across the ages. Rituals, routines, manners and methods have been developed to ensure that the way we eat and the tools we use to eat with perform a huge range of functions; from preventing us contaminating our food with unwashed hands, to marking us out as from a particular social class. in recent

Studio Casting Techniques for Jewellery @ Flux Jewellery School

Studio Casting Techniques for Jewellery @ Flux Jewellery School This weekend course introduces numerous home- studio casting techniques for jewellery and other small accessories. What will I learn? With focus firmly on the experimental, this is an exciting opportunity to try out a variety of approaches to casting and mould making. The aim is to equip you with techniques you can carry on exploring in your in the home studio.. When casting your outcome is determined by the type of mould you made. We present you with a comprehensive overview of the various techniques used in casting, both for studio and commercial use. We

Make Your Mark - Day 1

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

Make Your Mark - Day 2

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

Goldsmiths’ Fair 2016 Closes to Huge Success

The 34th edition of Goldsmiths’ Fair, the UK’s premier destination to view and buy fine jewellery and contemporary silver, closed its doors on Sunday afternoon. In what proved to be another successful year for the Fair, over 9,000 people, including royalty, members of the House of Lords, ambassadors, artists, gallerists, international collectors, and jewellery enthusiasts of all stripes, visited the event and sales were strong. Held at the historic Goldsmiths’ Hall, the event unveiled the latest collections from 150 leading designer-makers and the next generation of precious metal stars. All UK-based, the 115 jewellers and 35 silversmiths presented their collections

Contact us

Thanks for popping by, please read on for the contact details of the department you are looking to make contact with. To Say Hello To drop us a line to say hello or let us know what you think about the website, newsletter,  or provide some feedback on how we could improve our services please email info@benchpeg.com Editorial Team - Submissions If you have some news, a press release or an opportunity or call for applications you'd like to share please email the Editorial Team at info@benchpeg.com Recruitment Team - Jobs, Vacancies and Recruitment Advertising  If you would like to use the

Shine On: Carolina Bucci & her Superstellar Collection

Carolina Bucci is a jewellery designer whose creations are synonymous with a modern and effortless sense of luxury. Her jewellery is a vibrant re-invention of her family’s rich heritage, and it has redefined what fine jewellery can be, and how it should be worn. Working with the same techniques and tools used by her great-grandfather, who founded the family business in Florence in 1885, the designer continues to explore new methods of her craft. She creates unique pieces that combine the tradition of Florentine artisanship with a distinctly hip and modern sensibility. How is a star born? In Carolina's own

Winners Announced: Amberif Design Awards 2017

This year's winners of the Amberif Design Award have been announced. The competition's theme for the year was 'Periphery', a brief chosen to send entrants to take a closer look at the zone between set and free. An overwhelming number of 124 international artists from 25 countries travelled to this undefined area and explored its options and limits. By sending in a design or photo, they presented to the competition's jury their inspiration, road map or point of view. To dig a little deeper into the thematic theemes of the brief questions arose from entrant's submissions: What can happen when

Counting Down To Baselworld 2017

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

Jewellery Ethics for the 21st Century - A Practical Workshop

Jewellery Ethics for the 21st Century - A Practical Workshop by The Scottish Goldsmiths Trust and DJCAD at the University of Dundee This course is designed and run by two leading proponents of ethical jewellery, Greg Valerio MBE & Ute Decker, and is about sustainability and ethical awareness. It is aimed at those involved in designing, making selling, learning or teaching jewellery and follows on from the Symposium the previous day. 1. What topics will we cover? The course will explain the ethical issues in jewellery making and the significance of Fairtrade and Fairmined gold. You will learn about different approaches to ethical

Nuala Jamison 1948-2016

Christina Jansen,  Managing Director of The Scottish Gallery kindly writes an obituary for Benchpeg on Nuala Jamison, one of the leading lights of the contemporary non precious jewellery movement in the 1970s who sadly left us in August 2016. In July 2016, Nuala Jamison held what would be her last solo exhibition at The Scottish Gallery, Edinburgh called  Faceted Light .  The Scottish Gallery was one of many galleries to have represented her wonderful work, in our case over three decades.  Jamison was determined to make a new body of work for her exhibition and also include highlights from her

Nuala Jamison 1948-2016

Christina Jansen,  Managing Director of The Scottish Gallery kindly writes an obituary for Benchpeg on Nuala Jamison, one of the leading lights of the contemporary non precious jewellery movement in the 1970s who sadly left us in August 2016. In July 2016, Nuala Jamison held what would be her last solo exhibition at The Scottish Gallery, Edinburgh called  Faceted Light .  The Scottish Gallery was one of many galleries to have represented her wonderful work, in our case over three decades.  Jamison was determined to make a new body of work for her exhibition and also include highlights from her

Jewellery & Watch Industry Trends: Enamel, Pink and Diamonds

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

V&A Museum Acquires Rare Jewelled Medieval Brooch

Found on former Royal hunting grounds, this unique Medieval Brooch was a rare find for metal detectorist Justin Owens. After being mistaken for a dirty bottle cap, it's now proudly on display within the V&A's incredible jewellery collections. If jewellery could talk, we wonder what stories it could tell... The V&A Museum has acquired a rare jewelled late Medieval cluster brooch after it was uncovered in 2017 by a metal detectorist in the former Royal Hunting Ground known as 'Great Park' near Brigstock, Northamptonshire. Dating fromc. 1400-1450, the brooch hails from either France or Germany. It's one of only seven known

The Invitation of Victor H.

The Invitation of Victor H. 10 October 2019 - 15 March 2020 BeCraft Gallery, Belgium A timeless creative parenthesis, a dialogue between Belgian architectural heritage and contemporary applied arts, the fruit of Victor Horta. How to take inspiration from Victor Horta without doing "Victor Horta"? BeCraft's artists take a contemporary look at the Belgian architect's unmissable work, which carries with it a major artistic movement of modern art . His personal home and studio, features of Art Nouveau at its peak, have been widely preserved his creations. What to impress but also to inspire contemporary artists, because working in the wake of Horta is in itself

Nude Jewellery Celebrates 20 Years of Successful Business

After 20 years of successful business Nikki Galloway, owner and award-winning designer, is celebrating Nude Jewellery's 20 th  anniversary.  Reflecting on the anniversary, Nikki said, ‘ Twenty years on and I’m still really enjoying myself, no two days are ever the same and we are constantly evolving as a business. I love creating bespoke designs for clients and also new designs for our website. ”  In the past few years Nude Jewellery has specialised in creating exclusive gemstone engagement rings offering unique and modern designs. “I’m busier than I have ever been during 2020/21, and look forward to what the future will bring,

This Year's Jewellery & Watch 2018

Jewellery & Watch, the UK’s largest dedicated jewellery trade event, returns to NEC Birmingham from Sunday 4th until Thursday 8th February 2018. Taking place at a key buying point in the year, Jewellery & Watch will showcase a dazzling offering of new collections and inspiration from more than 300 new and returning exhibitors, as well unveiling the latest trends and offering essential advice from industry insiders. What to Expect at Jewellery & Watch 2018 The Atelier, an all-new immersive future trend showcase set to dominate for 2018 Edited sectors include loose gems, diamonds, watches, bespoke jewellery, silver, semi-precious and wholesale fashion jewellery

Women's Jewellery Network - Birmingham Event

Women's Jewellery Network - Birmingham Event The  Women's Jewellery Network  is pleased to confirm a Birmingham sister event to the launch in London taking place at the same time on  International Women's Day , 8th March 2018. Attendees will hear from the following speakers, at this event, kindly hosted by the team at  AnchorCert Acdemy , part of the  AnchorCert Group : UK’s first female Assay Master and former Cookson Precious Metals CEO, Stella Layton Company of Master Jeweller’s Executive Director of Business Development & Marketing, Lucy Reece-Raybould A panel discussion will focus on the folllowing topic: What changes need to be

Suppliers

Knowing where to get what can be half the battle. Here we created a signpost list of trade suppliers offering a wide selection of tools, bullion, findings etc... Bullion Suppliers Baird & Co www.goldline.co.uk Bellore Rashbel www.rashbel.co.uk Betts Metal Sales www.bettsmetalsales.com Cooksongold www.cooksongold.com Palmer Metals www.palmermetals.co.uk Fairtrade Refiners, Casters, Manufacturers & Suppliers Cookson Precious Metals Contact person: Rob Taylor www.cooksongold.com CRED Contact person: Alan Frampton credjewellery.com Hockley Mint Contact person: Gary Wroe www.hockleymint.co.uk S&P Trading Contact person: Patrick Schein www.patrickschein.com Vipa Design Contact person: Peter Crump www.vipadesigns.co.uk Weston Beamor Contact person: Glen Day www.westonbeamor.co.uk Finding Suppliers Cooksongold www.cooksongold.com Bellore Rashbel