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BOODLES is the official jewellery partner of 'The Secret Garden'

Boodles has announced that it is the official jewellery partner of  The Secret Garden , a new film adaptation of the timeless best-selling novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, which has recently been released on Sky Cinema. Published in 1911, the book tells the story of Mary Lennox, a British girl orphaned in India following an outbreak of cholera. Moving to Yorkshire and the care of her uncle, Archibald Craven — played in the new movie by Colin Firth — Mary discovers a magical garden. The film introduces a cast of wonderful young actors, with Dixie Egerickx as Mary; Amir Wilson

Our history

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

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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

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

Reservoir, official watch partner of the 2019 Coupe des Alpes, create 30 limited edition timepieces

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the legendary Coupe des Alpes, Reservoir have created a special limited edition timepiece that embodies the unique charm and character of classic racing cars of days gone by.  This year, for the first time, Reservoir are the official watch partner for the legendary automotive event, which takes place between the 13th-15th June. To mark the occasion, a limited edition watch, based on the Supercharge Red Zone model will be available in a limited run of just 30. Its retrograde minute and jumping hour at the counter are reminiscent of classic car tachometer.  It displays

Tabletop Photography: Using Compact Flashes and Low-Cost Tricks to Create Professional-Looking Studio Shots

On The Rocks: The Statement Cocktail Ring Soaked in History

As the temperatures outside begin to wind and cool down, the autumnal season trends are heating up to bolstering attention and flamboyant glamour. New season forecasting ushers in a new era of historical jewellery revival; a statement jewel like none other - the striking Cocktail ring. Dramatic, eye-catching and somewhat ostentatious, the cocktail ring is the epitome of excess which first found a name for itself as a symbol of independence and rebellion against the Prohibition over a century ago.  A bygone era, 1920s America was a time of tension and excess between deep rooted morals of the world war

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

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

Christian Dior Exhibition opens at V&A, Supported by Swarovski

Today marks the official opening of the exhibition ‘Dior: Designer of Dreams’, at the V&A. The exhibition, focusing on not only the founder, but his successive Artistic Directors and the design House as a whole, will be the largest and most comprehensive ever staged in the UK on the spectacular House of Dior. The exhibition is sponsored by Swarovski, who have a longstanding history of collaboration with Dior. In 1956, Swarovski worked with Monsieur Dior to create a unique crystal with rainbow-like effects called Aurora Borealis. Since then, the partnership has grown ever stronger, with each of Dior’s artistic directors

Miniaturist Vicki Ambrey Smith creates commission steeped in rich history

Vicki Ambrey Smith, the renowned miniaturist silversmith, has revealed her latest commissioned piece to Benchpeg. The extraordinary commission came about through her last showing at Goldsmiths' Fair last autumn, where she met a client who is a collector of very rare books. The client owns a particularly rare volume, which was written in Amsterdam in 1650 by Menasseh Ben Israel.  The text is part of petition written to Oliver Cromwell seeking readmission for the Jews to return to England. The silversmith fills us in and states  “They were banished from  England by King John in 1291.”  Ambrey Smith was asked

Resin Jewellery: Techniques & Projects Inspired by the History of Art, Craft and Jewellery

Appointment: Dr Timothy Schroder makes history being elected Prime Warden for second term

The Goldsmiths’ Company has announced that Dr Timothy Schroder has been elected Prime Warden. Dr Schroder, who previously served in the role during 2015-16, is the first member of the Goldsmiths’ Company to be appointed Prime Warden for a second term since 1951, when Walter Godfrey Allen served two consecutive years. Timothy Schroder was born in 1953 and educated in Oxford, where he attended St Edward’s School and Christ Church at Oxford University. At Christ Church he read philosophy and theology, before going on to specialise in the decorative arts, completing a Diploma at the Study Centre for the History

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

Brilliant Effects: A Cultural History of Gem Stones and Jewellery (Published for the Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art)

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

Jewelry links: The power of jewelry as a social, political and creative connection

I’ve been following the Turkish contemporary jewellery art scene for a few years now and I have always had the feeling that in the development of their art and design there was something singular and unique. This is both in terms of stylistic evolution and research, and in the formation of a compact, intelligent and measured identity and a creative movement involving artists and designers either individually or collectively. The exhibition JEWELRY LINKS, on view until 11 August at alja&friends gallery in Vienna, brings together 13 jewelry artists from Turkey with the aim of showing stylistically and technically idiosyncratic work

Milano Jewelery Tour 2023

Milano Jewelery Tour is the official partner of the first edition of Contemporania 28-30 September 2023 Royal Palace of Pedralbes, Barcelona 28 to 30 September 2023 Milano Jewellery Tour, a project to enhance the communication of jewelry founded by Eugenia Gadaleta, is the official partner of the first edition of Contemporania High Craftsmanship Barcelona. The event, conceived by Paulo Ribeiro and organized by Le Departément Interiors SL and Consorci de Comerç, Artesania i Moda de Catalunya, will be hosted by the Royal Palace of Pedralbes in Barcelona from 28 to 30 September 2023, and will exhibit the best of high craftsmanship. The event was

Launch: PeaceGold Ethical Jewellery House

Launch: PEACEGOLD Ethical Jewellery House  31st October 2024 Bishops Auckland PEACEGOLD is proud to announce the official launch of its Ethical Jewellery House on 31st October 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at 53 Fore Bondgate, Bishops Auckland. The PEACEGOLD Ethical Jewellery House celebrates jewellery that creates change. With a curated selection of ethical jewellers who are dedicated to crafting stunning pieces with integrity and purpose. PEACEGOLD is a community interest company established to benefit artisanal and small-scale miners (ASM) in conflict-affected areas. It directly supports these communities, promoting fair practices, economic empowerment and peace building. The evening will feature

Jewellerybox accredited as a Good Work Standard employer

jewellerybox have become one of London’s official Good Work Standard employers. The online retailer believes this is an important recognition of their commitment to their people and also reflects the many ways in which they are striving for the best possible working conditions for their employees.  The panel was also impressed that jewellerybox offers a range of free mentoring services to black owned businesses in areas such as setting up a business, digital marketing, and website optimisation. The panel was also pleased to see that jewellerybox had become a Living Wage accredited employer whilst working towards the Good Work Standard, a clear indication

Chopard’s 2019 Red Carpet collection showcased at Cannes film festival

For the 2019 Red Carpet Collection, Caroline Scheufele, co-president and artistic director, has chosen Love as her inspirational theme. “LOVE: when Chopard exalts the finest emotions” writes Jodie Smith. The Cannes film festival marks its 72nd year in 2019, and which the fine jewellery and luxury watch has house has been the official partner of since 2007. The luxury house does not only dressing actors and celebrities for the red carpet in these unique designs, but Chopard also creates the Palme D’or statue for the festival each year. Eschewing the traditional interpretations of ‘love’ in jewellery design, the main lines within

The Romanian Jewelry Week 2024

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

Romanian Jewelry Week 2025

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

Enchanting Opal

It's no secret that Opal is a stone boasting many admirers worldwide, a beauty that's easy on the eye and can look delightfully demure and delicious even in the simplest of outfits. Displaying all the colours of the rainbow, opal is coveted and celebrated for its beautiful iridescence and striking display of patterns. The official birthstone of October, Opal metaphysically symbolises hope and purity and is thought to a protective stone by keeping its wearer safe from danger. Opallios is the Greek word for Opals meaning 'To see a change of colour". The flashing play of colour you see in opal

Royal favourite Claudia Bradby launches new collection

Just ahead of Prince Harry's wedding to Megan Markle, jewellery designer Claudia Bradby, who is a personal friend to Britain's hottest young royals has launched a brand new collection which includes a 'mother and baby' pendant designed in collaboration with the HRH Duchess of Cambridge. For Bradby, whose ITN News anchor husband Tom scooped the official royal engagement interview with William and Kate back in 2010, 'Personalise' marks a shift in focus since this is her first customisable collection, aimed principally at gift purchasers. It comprises a series of silver and pearl charms, made from sterling silver and coated in

Diamond giant Alrosa launch 2018 World Cup collection

Alrosa, one of the world's largest mining companies, has launched a collection of 32 high quality diamonds as part of its sponsorship of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia. The Russian-mined  0.3 carat diamonds are named after each of the participating nations and can be personalised with an engraving associated with the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ or an individual. Sales of world cup favourites Brazil and Spain are expected to be in big demand with England not far behind. A special-design official certificate confirming characteristics of each diamond will be issued with each purchase.  "Russia produces one-third of all

Benchpeg Offer: Sold Out Tickets Available

This week, we are delighted to announce that Benchpeg are the official Media Partners for Make Your Mark 2019. With over 600 students and graduates already booked to attend, it looks set to be a fantastic event. Benchpeg has supported the jewellery industry for over 10 years now and in particular, those making their first steps into the industry. We have done this through our weekly newsletter, careers advice, jobs boards, funding opportunities to mention just a few and we love promoting beautiful work. Benchpeg at Make your Mark At this year’s Make Your Mark, Benchpeg will be on hand

Raymond Weil to Release third edition maestro The Beatles timepiece in April

Next month, the third edition to the Raymond Weil Beatles-inspired watch family will go on sale. The piece, inspired by the legendary Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album, is a limited edition, with 3,000 available worldwide.  Priced at £1,195, The Sergeant Pepper maestro The Beatles Limited Edition features a RW4200 mechanical self-winding movement housed in a 40mm polished yellow gold PVD plated stainless steel case offering 38 hours of power reserve. The black strap is the first from Raymond Weil featuring the a-la-mode Vegan leather and the case-back presents a smoked sapphire crystal that carries the official The Beatles logo

SIERAAD to relocate from Amsterdam

Astrid Berens & Maarten Bodt have announced the change of title and location of the now internationally attended Dutch event SIERAAD which has previously has its home in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Due to post-pandemic conditions and increased costs the events 20 year history of being based in Amsterdam will end in 2023. As a result the event will be scaled back and relocated to the city of Buren, in the Betuwe region of Holland. Buren was selected because of its charm and rich history. As the organisers of the event say, “It offers a breathtaking setting that will be the perfect

The Goldsmiths’ Centre collaborates with London Museum to Showcase Emerging Jewellery Designers

London Museum is showcasing UK handmade jewellery by emerging designer-makers in an exciting collaboration with the Goldsmiths’ Centre. This joint retail project, piloted by the Goldsmiths’ Centre on behalf of the Goldsmiths' Company and Charity, will be available at London Museum Docklands, showcasing pieces that connect to the rich history of London, the River Thames, and stories of trade and migration told in the museum’s galleries. London Museum’s latest showcase features five jewellers and silversmiths whose designs blend history, technology, and culture with sustainable materials and modern techniques.  Xinyi Chen, Suzanne Seed, Cara Lowe, Jo Boateng, and Caitlin Murphy present

November Birthstones: Topaz & Citrine

Those born in November are lucky enough to have two beautiful birthstones to choose from: topaz and citrine. Often mistaken for one another throughout history, these two sunny stones are the perfect way to warm up as the winter weather chills set in strong! Whilst both November birthstones are known for their calming energies and believed to bring good fortune to its wearer, these two gems each have their own unique set of qualities and characteristics that make them the perfect affordably priced gemstone for many a jewellery collections. Topaz Throughout much of history, topaz was the term once given to

Amethyst Crush for February Birth Babies

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

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

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

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

The Art of Brooches - L'École Van Cleef & Arpels

The history of brooches reflects the social and technical evolution of humanity. During Antiquity, some mysterious fibulae made with bronze spirals tell us that this object was perhaps firstly used to secure clothing. Subsequently, this utilitarian and functional aspect will be lost in favor of an ornamental role: decorated with precious stones, brooches will express the wealth and power of their wearers. As a military badge, a sign of love and devotion, an expression of personal opinions or simply worn for Glamor, the brooch is rich in many meanings which we invite you to study in this Talk. With a

AJW 2019: Athens Jewelry Week 2019

For the fourth consecutive year, Athens Jewelry Week will open its doors at the end of May, with a renewed program, new collaborations and more energy than ever writes Ilaria Ruggiero. As often happens around jewelry festivals, institutional moments will complement an off program that will allow the rediscovery of the city for residents and not only. A new way of looking at the art and history of this ancient civilization, through the filter of the jewel that allows to open up to new meanings, experiences and stimulate the growth of a lively sector in Greece. The objective of this dynamic Athens

University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh College of Art

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

The Fabergé Visionnaire Chronograph Collection

The stars, and the time they measure, have seen many stories start and end. Some stories end abruptly. Others echo down the eons. Start your chronograph. #StartYourStory. Precisely 100 years after the start of the Russian Revolution, Fabergé unveils a chronograph of revolutionary significance in the horological cosmos and pays tribute to the unfinished Constellation Egg of 1917. The constellations of the universe allow us not only to look back into the history of the stars and galaxies, but also to measure accurately the time that has elapsed as our universe, and the story of humankind on Earth, continue to

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,

News Briefing: 9 February 2025

A curated edit of this week's national and international jewellery news... Bulgari’s new exhibition pays homage to the snake in culture, art and jewellery Anna Solomon, February 2025, Wallpaper:  The high jewellery maison celebrates the Chinese zodiac in ‘Serpenti Infinito’, a Shanghai exhibition that traces how the symbol of the serpent has manifested throughout history. www.wallpaper.com Pharrell Williams and Tiffany & Co put Tahitian pearls and diamonds in the spotlight Anne Soward, February 2025, Wallpaper:  Two new jewellery collections combine Tiffany & Co’s inventive craftsmanship with the creative vision of Pharrell Williams www.wallpaper.com LVMH achieves a solid performance despite an

Contemporary British Silversmiths launch skill share films

The Contemporary British Silversmiths have launched a skills share initiative where members will be sharing some of the skills that have been passed onto them by other craftspeople throughout their career. The Contemporary British Silversmiths has a long history of community and skills sharing - peer to peer learning is one of the organisation’s founding principles. The first skill share is from Rauni Higson, and shows master silversmith Tony Bedford demonstrating how to solder a wire rim onto a flared vase. Tony agreed to answer any questions on the CBS Instagram page on the video post when it was launched [youtube CBS

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

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

Benchpeg enjoys a lockdown chat with Maria Spanou

Continuing our lockdown need for conversation, we chat to long time friend and industry colleague Maria Spanou. Maria is a jewellery industry professional who is ex Central St Martins trained, has a history in finance, project management, jewellery communications, the jewellery retail space and is also a jewellery designer who works to commission. She is an excellent networker and all round good egg. We chat about lockdown, current work coping strategies and making plans for the future… [youtube url=http://youtu.be/x8xt-sRH_oY] Author:  Published: 

Luxury Institute: The 7 Rules For Reinventing Your Luxury Business Model Post Pandemic

Citizens of the world have endured months of living through the COVID-19 pandemic experience. When we are past the worst of the crisis, we will not be the same, but we know from history that there will be many major opportunities for economic prosperity. How can luxury business leaders take creative, effective steps right now to shift the growth curve to a higher plane, with a steeper growth trajectory? To help brands achieve their well-intentioned purpose and values, here are seven rules from the Luxury Institute for reinventing the luxury business model for post pandemic success. Rule 1: From Disruption

The Goldsmiths' Company appoints Annie Warburton as its new Clerk and CEO

Annie Warburton has been announced as the new Clerk and CEO of the Goldsmiths’ Company. Annie becomes the first female Clerk and CEO of the Goldsmiths’ Company in its 700 year history, she has more than 20 years’ experience in creative industries organisations that span the private, public and charity sectors. She will join the Goldsmith’s Company in January 2024. This week the Goldsmiths’ Company announced that Anne-Christina ( Annie ) Warburton, CEO of Cockpit Arts and former Creative Director of The Crafts Council, has been appointed Clerk and CEO of The Goldsmiths’ Company, starting in January 2024.   With

Matrixgold Tips & Tricks Part 2

Matrixgold Tips & Tricks Part 2 Join us on Tuesday 27 September at 10:00 for this 2 hour free webinar with MatrixGold CAD Tutor Jack Meyer. In the class we’ll discuss: NURBS problem solving strategy in MatrixGold The difference between Rhino History and MatrixGold Dynamic Commands, and how to get the most out of both Effectively managing and organising Dynamic Command trees The limitations of solid modelling We will be using the latest version of MatrixGold V3 and Rhino 7, Join us at 10am on Tuesday 27 September 2022 To enrol, visit the Eventbrite link at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/matrixgold-tips-tricks-lecture-part-2-tickets-421717106217

Annie Warburton appointed as new Clerk and CEO at the Goldsmiths' Company

Annie Warburton has been announced as the newly appointed Clerk and CEO of the Goldsmiths’ Company. Annie becomes the first female Clerk and CEO of the Goldsmiths’ Company in its 700 year history, she has more than 20 years’ experience in creative industries organisations that span the private, public and charity sectors. She will join the Goldsmith’s Company in January 2024. This week the Goldsmiths’ Company announced that Anne-Christina ( Annie ) Warburton, CEO of Cockpit Arts and former Creative Director of The Crafts Council, has been appointed Clerk and CEO of The Goldsmiths’ Company, starting in January 2024.  

Icons of British Fashion

Icons of British Fashion Blenheim Palace 23rd March to 30th June 2024 Who’s Who of British designers collaborate for  Icons of British Fashion  exhibition at Blenheim Palace  Blenheim Palace has collaborated with some of Britain’s most iconic fashion designers and brands to create  Icons of British Fashion , the largest exhibition in its 300-year history, open to the public from today (23rd March) to 30th June, sponsored by nearby British luxury retail destination; Bicester Village. From the moment visitors arrive and step onto the red carpet leading up to the Palace, they’ll experience a world-class fashion exhibition featuring designs and

Vasundhara: An Interaction

I admit to be attracted by those experiments that mix traditions and contemporary life, if they are successful, like the new series of works called An Interaction and created by Vasundhara Mantri, an Indian designer with an international background writes Ilaria Ruggiero. In this case the experimentation is even more interesting, given the use of glass, an unusual material in Indian culture and history. The designer expresses creativity in experimentation as if it were a new awakening, which requires an approach made up of precision, confidence and control: "Art is forged in emotion. Wearable art must follow its own journey. As it

F.Hinds Celebrates New Store Refit

Family owned and run jeweller, F.Hinds, has recently refurbished their Dover branch. The store at 42 Biggin Street, Dover, originally opened in 1985, having surviving two World Wars and numerous financial crashes over its 166-year history. The new Dover store refit features modernisation to match the current F.Hinds branding, new wall decoration, carpet and a new seated area for serving customers. Alison Riddle, store manager at F.Hinds Dover said, “Having originally opened in 1985 we are now very established on Dover high-street which is wonderful. Even though times are hard, our store refit only shows that we are here it

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

CAD / CAM Designer, G. Collins & Sons - Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent

The role CAD/CAM Designer G. Collins & Sons Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent At G. Collins & Sons, we have a full-time opportunity to join our first-class team as an integral member of our workshop. With a history that spans back to 1985, we are a small, family-run jewellers tucked away in Tunbridge Wells, Kent with an ever-expanding team in search of a CAD/CAM Designer. The position will be based in Royal Tunbridge Wells in our innovative, traditional highly skilled workshop. The successful candidate must have strong design skills in Rhino or Matrix and have a good knowledge of jewellery fabrication,

Annoushka Launches new Lovelock & Lovelink designs

“The ‘lock’ has been celebrated throughout history, in the world of punk rock as much as in the realms of religion. For me, its symbolism of security and strength has a particular resonance, at a time when the world seeks both”  -  Annoushka Ducas MBE The five new Lovelock designs have each been exquisitely crafted in 18ct gold and set with precious gemstones.  Each one depicts a different talismanic symbol; The Bee, an icon of endurance and community, The Eye, to keep the wearer safe, The Star, a decorative symbol of guidance, and The Heart, our universal symbol of love.

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

A Fresh New Look For The Scottish Goldsmiths Trust

The Incorporation of Goldsmiths have announced the launch of the new Scottish Goldsmiths Trust website where you will find  information about who they are, projects, opportunities, events and history.  The Scottish Goldsmiths Trust (SGT) was founded by The Incorporation of Goldsmiths of the City of Edinburgh in the year 2000. Its aims remain to support and promote the education, art an craft of Scotland’s gold and silversmithing heritage and trade.  The Scottish Goldsmiths Trust has a dynamic programme of opportunities, exhibitions and awards. The SGT curates the Millennium Silver collection, Silver of the Stars and the historical archives of The

Celestial Inspired Jewellery

Jewellers turn to celestial bodies for design inspiration time and time again, with some of the biggest names in fine jewellery returning to star, sun and planet motifs for 2019. These forms are both familiar and yet magical to us, becoming part of the pantheon of jewellery history for many collectors and admirers writes Jodie Smith. Cartier Released during Paris haute couture week, Cartier introduced an entire galaxy of 14 limited edition pieces of jewellery in ‘Les Galaxies de Cartier.’ This is the first in the series of Cartier’s collections based on the mission statement: ‘Explore New, Create Amazing’, and

Digital Jewelry Week

Digital Jewelry Week 7 - 12 October 2024 www.digitaljewelryweek.com Digital Jewelry Week makes history with first-ever hybrid event setting a new standard for the global jewelry industry The immersive event will blend digital innovation with an exclusive in-person gathering in Milan’s iconic garden senato. Digital Jewelry Week (DJW), returning for its second year taking place from the 7th to the 13th of October, has today announced that the  event will expand into both digital and physical spaces, marking the jewellery industry’s first-ever hybrid event. On the 12 of October, DJW will host an exclusive one-day gathering in Milan’s prestigious Garden Senato.

Goldsmith & Mounter, G. Collins & Sons - Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent

The role Goldsmith & Mounter G. Collins & Sons Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent G. Collins & Sons are a family-owned business based in Royal Tunbridge Wells.  Due to expansion, we have a unique opportunity for a skilled Goldsmith and Mounter to join our on-site workshop team. With a history that spans back to 1985, we are a small, family-run jewellers that handcrafts all our jewellery on-site and looking to expand our team. Our Goldsmiths & Mounters are essential to our production workflow, and they must show meticulous attention to detail when carrying out their work. We are keen to hear

Robert Baines: Living Treasure and Fabulous Follies

The exhibition Robert Baines: Living Treasure and Fabulous Follies  is organized by Gallery Loupe for Contemporary Art Jewelry, Montclair, New Jersey, in collaboration with the Arkansas Arts Center and aims at celebrating the dazzling and witty work of the master goldsmith, craftsman and leading scholar in the field of archaeometallurgy. Everything in his creative research started when The Metropolitan Museum of Art encouraged him to make copies of pieces in their collection and testing them. This has developed his personal understandings that jewelry artifact crystallizes “human drama” and this knowledge base has empowered my trajectory into playing with jewelry history and

Actinia by Raluca Buzura wins the Gold International Design Award

The Spanish porcelain brand obtains international recognition for its latest jewellery collection created by the renowned Romanian designer  As part of the International Design Awards 2020 (IDA), Lladró was the recipient of the Gold Award in the Jewelry category for its Actinia collection created by Romanian designer Raluca Buzura. Actinia is a series of seven dazzlingly beautiful pieces that submerge us in Raluca’s fascinating imagination and concentrate on the true essence of luxury while at once defending the magic of underwater life. Now in its 14th year, the International Design Awards 2020 have been the most successful in its history.

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

Objet d’Emotion x Ecru launch Jewellery Memory Game

Valery Demure, Founder of Objet d’Emotion, is proud to present the ‘Lady of the Rings” Memory Game, in collaboration with Nur Kaoukjhi, Creative Director of Ecru. With the challenges 2020 presents, we’ve learnt to adjust to a slower pace and enjoy simple pleasures. Spending time with her daughter Paloma reminded Valery of her own childhood, playing memory games with her grandmother Marie-Louise. Valery has travelled extensively, India being one of her favourite places, Jaipur connecting with her more intimately due to its jewellery history. As well as the beauty she admired, she also witnessed the obstacles the communities are facing

Cartier: The Story Behind the Style

Cartier: The Story Behind the Style by Rachael Taylor Cartier: The Story Behind the Style is a beautifully illustrated, handbag-sized visual history of one of the world's most iconic brands. From the brand's inception in Paris in 1847, Cartier has been the go-to jeweller for the world's most stylish set. Filled with photographs and information from the company's 175 years, go behind the scenes to discover the story of how Cartier became synonymous with luxury. Chart the rise of the famous jeweller and watchmaker from humble beginnings in 19th-century Paris to the slick empire it is today. Discover how the

Tiffany & Co.: The Story Behind the Style

Tiffany & Co.: The Story Behind the Style by Rachael Taylor Tiffany & Co.: The Story Behind the Style is a beautifully illustrated, handbag-sized visual history of one of the world's most iconic brands. Open the world's most famous little blue box to discover the story of Tiffany & Co. since its founding in 1837. Packed with photographs and information from the company's 185 years, get a glimpse of the legendary designs that have made Tiffany & Co. a household name. Starting in New York City in 1837, you will discover just how far plucky upstart Charles Lewis Tiffany went

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 transformation taking

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

Online event celebrating the Jewellery Quarter’s independent businesses

Jewellery Quarter Business Improvement District (JQBID) organises one-day online event celebrating the Quarter’s independent businesses On Saturday June 13, viewers can enjoy an exciting day filled with online entertainment within the safety of their own four walls. JQ at Home is a celebration of the artistry, creativity and history of this unique Quarter of Birmingham - an area of the city which has been hit especially hard during the Coronavirus crisis. With a large proportion of businesses in the Jewellery Quarter being part of the hospitality, retail and arts sectors, many businesses were forced to cease trading from as early

Museum of Arts And Design New York, Appoints Christian Larsen as Windgate Research Curator

The Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) today announced the appointment of Christian Larsen to the position of Windgate Research Curator, effective immediately.  In this position, funded by the Windgate Charitable Foundation, Larsen will lead an educational and curatorial partnership between the Museum of Arts and Design and Bard Graduate Center (BGC) to increase the visibility of craft and design in art history and the contemporary art world. He replaces Elissa Auther who was named Deputy Director of Curatorial Affairs and William and Mildred Lasdon Chief Curator last September. 'With great enthusiasm, we welcome Christian to the curatorial team at

SIERAAD Art Fair 2019

[youtube url=http://youtu.be/Snjqq3Hf7Os] SIERAAD Art Fair 2019 7 - 10 October 2019 Gashouder WesterGasterrein, Amsterdam The 18th edition of SIERAAD International Jewellery Art Fair will be held aa MARJAN UNGER TRIBUTE in cooperation with the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam.  Marjan Unger (1946-2018) was a well known Dutch art historian, writer, curator, teacher, design expert and a collector of jewellery but most of all a very dedicated promoter of jewellery design. A warm, kind and humorous lady who was always curious and ready to cross boundaries. She was a reseacher, studied art history and completed her doctoral dissertation, but she also did an

Sian Evans Second Aluminium collection, Pars Pro Toto, Crosses the Boundaries of Art, Design and Fashion

Sian Evans is an award-winning British Jewellery designer, living and working in London. Her new collection, Pars Pro Toto, was launched at Paris Fashion Week last year to wide acclaim.  Sian’s love of archaeology, fashion, nature and technology; the history of tools and materials have informed her collections since she started her creative practice. Sian Evans Jewellery was first established in 1986, developing into an international label during the 1990s.  Sian is a lapsed fossil collector, brought up on the Jurassic coast in Dorset where she studied Geology. She has created pieces which are reminiscent of microscopic fossils, diatoms and

TEFAF Maastricht 2018

TEFAF Maastricht 2018 Established in 1988, TEFAF is widely regarded as the world’s pre-eminent organization of fine art, antiques, and design. TEFAF runs three Fairs internationally - TEFAF Maastricht, which covers 7,000 years of art history; TEFAF New York Spring, focused on modern and contemporary art & design; and TEFAF New York Fall, covering fine and decorative art from antiquity to 1920. TEFAF champions the finest quality art from across the ages by creating a community of the world’s top art dealers and experts to inspire lovers and buyers of art everywhere. TEFAF Maastricht will present more than 280 of

The Four Rings of Forever

Blurred lines have become a common norm in today's society yet history has long shown us that the stages of a relationship are distinguished by four rings of commitment. Is it a casual summer fling, a committed entanglement, short or long term or even warrant an extra pair of house keys? Modern society keeps the boundaries loose and overlapped but the wedding ring has forever been the symbolic sign of love, affection and promise between two individuals. Yet for every stage of a relationship there is a band of meaning to embody it. The evolution of these four rings has

New Studio 'The Smiddy' to Launch with a Project that Celebrates Local Crafts People

Vanilla Ink’s is throwing open its doors for its first expansion in beautiful Banff. The brand new, recently renovated The Smiddy: Centre of Excellence for Silversmithing & Jewellery, will open to the public on September 22nd – and for their first project and exhibition, they want to hear from you! The Royal Borough of Banff is richly steeped in silversmithing heritage, with locally made silver fetching great interest and fantastic prices at auctions. Vanilla Ink mean to revive that history, firmly returning local craft to the global silversmithing map. This is where you come in; to help the revive tradition,

Made for the Table

Made for the Table  Made for the Table  presents contemporary silver from the Goldsmiths’ Company Collection, together with the curated work of leading UK artisans in furniture design, glass, ceramics and textiles. This modern table setting is introduced by examples of extraordinary antique silver acquired over several hundred years by the Company. This reflects its long history of patronage and contextualises the outstanding work of makers practicing in Britain today. The exhibition demonstrates both a continuation of silversmithing techniques and innovation in the treatment of the material. The process of handforging allows cutlery to be created in precisely the same

AJW 2019: Athens Jewelry Week 2019

AJW 2019: Athens Jewelry Week 2019 Benaki Museum, Athens, Greece 22 – 29 May 2019 For the fourth consecutive year, Athens Jewelry Week will open its doors at the end of May, with a renewed program, new collaborations and more energy than ever. As often happens around jewelry festivals, institutional moments will complement an off program that will allow the rediscovery of the city for residents and not only. A new way of looking at the art and history of this ancient civilization, through the filter of the jewel that allows to open up to new meanings, experiences and stimulate

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

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

Jewellery: Wearable Glass

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

Signet rings all the rage again

The recent hike in signet ring sales, among both men and women, represents a tiny sliver of heraldry history, with trends and customs in 'pinky' rings and regalia dating back almost 3,500 years.  Today, it is no longer necessary have a family coat of arms and a small fortune to wear a signet ring. Most high street jewellers can engrave initials on a ring for as little as £100 but the desire to embellish one's appearance with an item that indicates heritage and pedigree or power remains as strong as it was in around 1300 BC when the Greeks and

Hatton Garden gang ordered to pay back £27.5 million

The four criminals who pulled off one of the biggest jewellery heists in British history will have to pay back every penny of their ill-gotten gains, around £7 million each, or have their prison sentences increased. Almost three years after Brian Reader, 78, John ‘Kenny’ Collins, 77,  Terry Perkins, 69, and Daniel Jones, 63 drilled a hole into the wall of a Hatton Garden vault and took off with 73 boxes of stolen cash, gold and gems  a judge has ruled they must find a way of paying back £27.5 million in total. Hatton Garden ringleaders John "Kenny" Collins, Danny

Muriel Wilson 1933 – 2018

Muriel was a Founding Member of ACJ, and was for seven years our Honorary Secretary. She initiated our print magazine Findings and served as its Editor for 15 years, from 1998 to 2013. She was a keystone member of ACJ and keeper of its history. She retired from the Board meetings in 2014 (always identified as attending ex officio Editor of Findings) and thereafter served on our Panel of Advisors wirites Tamizan Savill from the Association for Contemporary Jewellery in Muriel Wilson's  obituary. Jane Adam wrote  “Muriel proved herself to be pivotal to the formation of ACJ, giving us a good

RELIC

RELIC This is Metalsmith Rebecca Gouldson’s first foray into curating with this exhibition entitled RELIC. The exhibition draws on Rebecca’s interpretation of the theme as “a collection of objects which capture my imagination, chosen for their appearance of being found, rather than recently made; aged rather than new. They appear to have a history, told through their form, their surface marks and sometimes in their arrangement or display.” Exhibiting makers include Rebecca Appleby, Karolina Baines,  Elaine Bolt, Jane Cairns, Anne-Laure Cano,  Amanda Denison, Rebecca Gouldson, Ruth Leslie, Claire Malet, Jo Pond, Paul Wearing, Rachel Wood and others to be announced

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

Spectacular £30 million diamond found at Letsing

One massive diamond, worth more than £30 million, has been recovered by British mining company Gem Diamonds at their Letsing Mine in Lesotho, South Africa. Yet to be given a name, the 910 carat colourless diamond is roughly the size of a cricket ball and is the largest ever found at Letsing. It is also the fifth largest to be extracted in history and its discovery sent shares in Gem Diamonds soaring following a difficult couple of years where the world famous mine has struggled for major finds and wrestled with a fall in prices. Some of the most significant

Vegas Edge 2019

Vegas Edge Alexis Park All-Suite Hotel and Conference Centrer, Las Vegas, USA 12 th  -13 th  August 2019  The 3 Vegas Edge Show Reports Record Breaking Sales for Upcoming Event Tuesday 13 & Wednesday 14 August 2019 are set to go down in history as the Vegas Edge Team have pre-sold a record breaking 80% of the floor space for their August event. The sister show to LondonEdge, an international event established for 20 years, Vegas Edge is the only commercial platform stateside dedicated to lifestyle, creative alternative apparel, footwear & accessories businesses. Exhibitors, buyers, influencers & press will gather

Graduate Show University of Brighton 2017

MDes and BA Hons 3D Design and Craft Graduate Show University of Brighton The University of Brighton’s annual Graduate Show is when their talented graduating students in the arts, design, architecture and media stage their final-year shows. Our courses cover a range of disciplines and on show will be work from the following subject areas: architecture and interior architecture, fashion and textiles, film, fine art, photography, graphics and and illustration, design, craft, media, history of art and design. Meet the Makers on Sunday 4th June Graduating students from the 3D Design & Craft course will be presenting the processes used to

British Museum Acquires “Brexit” Medal

An art medal, titled Exit Britannia ,  created by designer and craftsman Fred Wyver has been purchased by the British Museum. Fred Wyver teaches on the Silversmithing and Jewellery BA at the University for the Creative Arts in Rochester and produced Exit Britannia as an accompaniment to a student competition organised by the British Art Medal Society. The medal was displayed alongside a collection of work from students and practitioners from universities around the country in an exhibition titled ‘Holding Stories’ (17 April – 10 May 2018) hosted by UCA Rochester which has a long history of teaching precious metalworking

Spring Fair 2017, NEC Birmingham

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

Spirit of Christmas, Studio Fusion Gallery - London

The use of drinking vessels to celebrate special occasions and to mark life’s milestones is part of our tradition and history. Contemporary designers and artists can enhance our drinking experiences with joyful, tactile and beautiful objects and Studio Fusion Gallery in their ongoing engagement with metalsmiths is delighted to present a selection from some of the top UK makers this Christmas. Work by Juliette Bigley, Angela Cork, Adrian Hope, Simone ten Hompel, Edward Mahoney, Rebecca De Quin, Mary Ann Simmons, Hazel Thorn, Adi Toch, Tamar de Vries Winter. Studio Fusion Gallery Unit 1:06 Oxo Tower Wharf Bargehouse Street London SE1

About Benchpeg

A little bit about our history... 18 years ago, the UK jewellery industry was lacking accessible information. Organisations in the trade were keeping themselves to themselves, and it was becoming increasingly difficult to keep up with the latest developments.    In 2006 we founded Benchpeg, and launched the first digital newsletter for the jewellery industry and allied trades aimed at promoting information from across the trade and bridging the gap of information out there and accessibility to it. In 2024 we published our 800th issue of the Benchpeg newsletter. Today we support the jeweller by assisting with recruitment needs, sharing the

The Contemporary Craft Festival 2017

The Contemporary Craft Festival came about when three Bovey Tracey craft businesses joined forces and formed a non-profit making company with the aim to bring a large craft Fair to Bovey Tracey. The aim of the Fair was to showcase the very best in British craft and the create a new, sustainable and strong market place for contemporary craft but also to bring greater prosperity to the town of Bovey Tracey. The town has a long history of making and at one point up to 15 commercial potteries were running in the area. Dates 9 - 11 June 2017 Venue

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

Contemporary Jewellery: Exploring Its Impact on Well-Being

Contemporary Jewellery: Exploring Its Impact on Well-Being (exhibition) 29 October - 8 November 2024 Loughborough University Arts A jewellery exhibition of doctoral research on how contemporary jewellery impacts well-being. Throughout history, jewellery as an intimate object, has decorated our bodies and developed a variety of meanings and functions. This exhibition presents parts of Yajie’s doctoral research, exploring whether and how contemporary jewellery impacts people’s well-being. The exhibition also traces Yajie’s artistic practice in contemporary jewellery, from initial inspiration and material experimentation to the creation of final pieces.  This PhD research employed various methods, including well-being scales, diaries, and semi-structured interviews

Study of Rare Diamonds Unlocks More of Earth's Secrets

Scientists at GIA (Gemological Institute of America) continue to delve deep into earth's geologic history, using diamonds' distinctive characteristics to go – virtually – where no scientist has ever gone. In two recent scientific papers, GIA researchers and their colleagues at other leading research institutions share their latest discoveries based on information gleaned from extremely rare and pure diamonds from very deep within the earth. "Our unparalleled access to millions of diamonds each year, long-standing relationships with major research institutions and mission-driven dedication to sharing everything we learn make GIA uniquely able to help expand understanding of the fundamental forces

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

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

Anthropologie Celebrates 'Women who Weld' this International Women's Day

From today, right up 'til April 23rd, the Anthropolgie store on Kings Road, London, will play host to a curated selection of jewellery, designed by Britain's most inspiring female jewellers.  The showcase, which will feature eight designers, was designed to celebrate both International Women's day and Women's History Month, as well as British design. Throughout the event, customers will have the opportunity to buy  one-of-a-kind and numbered pieces, all of which have been carefully handcrafted in the UK. International Women's Day  (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also

Fabergé and Rolls-Royce come together to create the Second Imperial Fabergé Egg since 1917

Two champions of innovative design, impressive craftsmanship and undeniable heritage collide in a momentous collaboration between automotive giant Rolls-Royce and legendary jeweller Fabergé.  The 'Spirit of Ecstasy' Fabergé egg is the second of it's kind to be made in the Imperial class, since 1917. In celebration, Benchpeg takes a look at the history of the two unforgetable brands, and the story behind both the Fabergé egg and the 'Spirit of Ecstasy'.   A World-wide Easter Egg Hunt... Fabergé, as we know it, was born when Peter Carl Fabergé took over his Father's 'very ordinary' jewellery business in 1882. Born and educated in St. Petersburg,

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