Search Results

Q&A: Grant Macdonald

Grant Macdonald is an esteemed silversmith of international repute. He began his career in precious metals at the age of 14, he attended a pre apprentice course at the Central School of Arts and Crafts finally graduating from Sir John Cass School of Art. The Grant Macdonald business was established in 1969 and became a limited company in 1977. The business is still thriving and has had is base in Bear Lane, London for some 41 years. Over a career spanning some 50 years the Grant Macdonald brand has worked in every aspect of the trade to the heightened areas

Grant Macdonald – International Silversmith

Grant Macdonald – International Silversmith Goldsmiths' Hall, London This glittering exhibition features exquisite gold and silver items of superlative design and craftsmanship from a leading London-based silversmith and represents decades of international export success and national achievement. The Goldsmiths’ Company is proud to present Grant Macdonald – International Silversmith, an exhibition celebrating five decades of elegant modern design and excellent craftmanship fuelled by the extraordinary creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of silversmith Grant Macdonald. This major exhibition brings together stunning silver and gold objects designed by Macdonald to tell the inspiring story of the exceptional British craftsmanship and innovative design that

Trainee / Junior Silversmith, Grant Macdonald - London

The role Trainee / Junior Silversmith Grant Macdonald London SE1 Grant Macdonald is a high-end silversmithing manufacturer. We are market leaders in our specialised field and our global customer base ensures we produce a wide range of fascinating products. An opportunity has arisen to join our expanding silversmithing team in our central London workshop. We are currently looking for a talented junior silversmith/trainee to join the team. The chosen candidate needs to be a hardworking, enthusiastic craftsperson who is looking to expand their skills and grow as a silversmith at a prestigious London workshop. About the job 5 days a week Traditional

Assistant Production Manager, Grant Macdonald - London

Assistant Production Manager Grant Macdonald London SE1 Grant Macdonald is a high-end silversmithing manufacturer, with over 50 years of history and a Royal Warrant to His Majesty The King. We are market leaders in our specialised field and our global customer base ensures we produce a wide range of fascinating products.  A new opportunity has arisen to join our expanding production team in our central London workshop and office. We are currently looking for an Assistant Production Manager who has good experience working in high end manufacturing and can support our current Production Manager and the rest of the production

UK Jewellery Businesses embark on Innovative Ventures with the Goldsmiths’ Centre’s Business Catalyst (Large) Grants

The Goldsmiths’ Centre has announced the recipients of its Business Catalyst (Large) Grants, which are designed to support entrepreneurial jewellers, silversmiths, and allied industry practitioners across the UK. Jewellers Hannah Bedford, Ellis Mhairi Cameron and Shola Branson have each been awarded grants of up to £7,000. The grants are funded through modern philanthropic giving by members of the Goldsmiths’ Company to the 1327 Fund. The Goldsmiths’ Centre in the City of London has announced the two recipients and commended recipient of its Business Catalyst (Large) Grants, which are designed to support the business development of entrepreneurial jewellers, silversmiths, and allied

Patron’s Award for Endangered Crafts 2025

Call for Applications: Patron’s Award for Endangered Crafts Prize: £3,000 Opening date for applications: 1 March 2025 Closing date for applications: 1 July 2025 The Patron's AwardThis grant of £3,000, supported by Heritage Crafts’ Patron HM The King, will be awarded to an esteemed practitioner of endangered crafts whose proposal makes the best use of the funds to secure the survival of that craft. Former Heritage Crafts Chair Patricia Lovett MBE has once again donated £1,000 as a grant to the runner-up. Eligible crafts are those categorised as ‘endangered’ and ‘critically endangered’ in the Red List of Endangered Crafts 2023

Emerald: May's Beautiful Birthstone

Vivid, vibrant and the vivacious colour of May, Emerald in all its zesty rich hue celebrates the promise of sunny summer days but the arrival of all those May babies out there. As the gemstone of Venus and fertility, Emerald is a stone of inspiration and aspiration by encouraging its wearer to live and act authentically from the heart. A catalyst for the abundance of human emotions, Emerald channels the energy patterns that surface straight from the heart chakra. Encouraging us to strengthen our interactions with the external world by opening up our hearts, emerald is seen to be a

Metamorphosis III

Metamorphosis III A Profound Change In Form The aim is to create unique end products – attachments that go beyond the scope of the traditional brooch. This workshop will explore how metamorphosis can be used as a theme in jewellery making and design. The aim is to achieve new and innovative outcomes through transformative processes and consecutive changes. Pieces will be created by using a method of step-by-step alteration. The focus will be on the process as an important catalyst for creating new designs – the journey is as important as the end product. The first part of the course

May You Say It With Emeralds

Vivid, vibrant and the vivacious colour of May, Emerald in all its zesty rich hue celebrates the arrival of not only Summer soul adventures but the arrival of all those May babies out there. May has forever been known as the month that sits in the deep heart of Spring whilst teasing us with snippets of the sunny blue skies and mischief of Summer days. As the gemstone of Venus and fertility, Emerald is a stone of inspiration and aspiration by encouraging its wearer to live ad act authentically from the heart. A catalyst for the abundance of human emotions,

Dongchun Lee

32nd Edition of the Marzee International Graduation Show Galerie Marzee 14 August - 31 October 2018 Dongchun Lee Mind, 2023 necklace; wood, nickel silver, horse hair 145 x 260 x 25 mm Dongchun Lee Exhibition Nijmegen , The Netherlands Until 19 July 2023 Dongchun Lee creates jewellery that is a contemplative and introspective embodiment of his preoccupation with the passage of time. His work gently breathes life into his belief that time is both the catalyst by which life flourishes and the means by which it will eventually diminish and wither as the years pass. Dongchun Lee was born in 1964

FERROcity | A contemporary exhibition of iron in the city

Ferrocity: A contemporary exhibition of iron in the city Museum Reich der Kristalle, Munich, Germany & School of Jewellery, Birmingham 21st February - 17th March 2019 & 1st - 18th April 2019 Jewellery and objects by twenty-two contemporary makers displayed alongside gemmological samples and photography that explores the interpretation and influence of Iron as catalyst, material and fundamental element of life. The exhibition is co-curated by Elizabeth Turrell and Stephen Bottomley from the School of Jewellery, Birmingham City University. The selection of contemporary metalwork and jewellery, ranging from steel vessels to recycled iron nail jewellery, will present a range of approaches

FERROcity | A contemporary exhibition of iron in the city

Q&A

Our Q&A profile of personalities in the jewellery industry is based on the Proust questionnaire, aimed at giving a career profile to date, but also injecting a bit of quirky.

Maker of the Year Award 2025

Call for Applications: Maker of the Year Award Prize: £1,000 per UK nation Opening date for applications: 3 March 2025 Closing date for applications: 1 July 2025 Supported by the Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation, Marsh Charitable Trust, William Grant Foundation and Silverlining Furniture This Heritage Crafts Award is to recognise a heritage craftsperson who has made an outstanding contribution to their specific craft within the previous 12 months (since 3 March 2024). This award will recognise a contribution that is far beyond the ordinary, either in pushing their craft to new levels, contributing to its promotion or continuation in an exceptional way.

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

Selvedge Fair - Charleston

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

Selvedge Fair - Charleston, East Sussex

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

16th Alloy Graduate Showcase - Herefordshire

Alloy Jewellers will present the 16th Alloy Graduate Showcase taking place at The Courtyard, Hereford opening on 12th May until 30th June 2017. The exhibition will be open at the Courtyard until the 30th June 2017 and features jewellery from this year’s Alloy Graduate Award Winners; Rachael Harman and Marcella Andersen They will be joined by past winners Rose Grant, Elizabeth Terzza, Amelia Strong, Melissa Morgan, and Annie Mackay Alloy is a Herefordshire based group of jewellers, small metal workers and silversmiths at different stages of their careers. Formed by Mike Gell in 1993, the aim of the group is to

Training Providers

Cockpit Arts Christmas Open Studios 2017 - Holborn

Cockpit Arts Christmas Open Studios 2017 Join us for this perfect opportunity to buy direct from independent makers - from craftspeople and artist-makers as well as a selected group of Cockpit Arts’ alumni … Ceramics, homewares, jewellery, shoes, glass… and many other crafts Featured showcase curated by Grant Gibson, editor of Crafts magazine Crafts Magazine pop-up stall Delicious food by Hand Made Food café HOLBORN · 23 – 26 November Cockpit Yard, Northington St, London, WC1N 2NP Holborn, Chancery Lane & Russell Square Opening times: Thurs 6 – 9pm, Fri, Sat + Sun 11am – 6pm DEPTFORD · 1 –

Cockpit Arts Christmas Open Studios 2017 - Deptford

Help Alan Craxford fulfil his final project

My name is Janice Hosegood, and I'm fundraising to help Alan Craxford complete his final project. We've known each other for over thirty years, first through work and in later years, we've become great friends. With a career spanning over 50 years, Alan Craxford is an artist, jeweller, silversmith, engraver, and teacher, acknowledged for his precision and mastery of precious metals and gemstones. Alan’s artworks are highly prized and have been exhibited over his career with examples shown within the Victoria & Museum’s permanent collection. In 2003, Alan was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. It is a devastating condition and although

CV Audit

Need some help putting your CV together? Have a one hour 1-2-1 with Benchpeg’s Rebecca spent going through your CV getting it optimised for your next career move. Rebecca has 25 years worth of experience in the craft and industry and has helped individuals find their next job move for over 18 years. Having given CV Audits at shows like International Jewellery London, the Goldsmiths’ Company’s Getting Started course, the GIA’s Careers Fair and the School of Jewellery – Birmingham’s Connect Careers event, Rebecca is used to assessing how to optimise a professional CV for targeted career moves. The session www.paypal.com

Emerging Metalworker of the Year Award 2025

Call for Applications: Emerging Metalworker of the Year Award Prize: £1,000 Opening date for applications: 3 March 2025 Closing date for applications: 1 July 2025 Supported by Lucy and Laurence Butcher This award celebrates an early-career heritage craftsperson (in the first 5 years of their professional practice) who has made an outstanding start to their metalworking career. The award winner will be highly skilled amongst their peers, whilst raising the perceived value of their craft through sharing and awareness raising. They will have given themselves a fantastic chance of achieving long-term success, perhaps overcoming disadvantage or setbacks along the way.

Courses in Jewellery or Silversmithing

Knowing where to study to embark on a career, to up-skill, or simply to persue a hobby can be a bit daunting. We've compiled a list of higher education providers, professional development opportunities for lifelong learning and international institutions... There are a number of useful organisations who might be able to provide further information about career pathways, craft, design and creativity.... Useful websites: Hotcourses www.hotcourses.com Floodlight www.floodlight.co.uk Compare different University Jewellery courses university.which.co.uk UCAS search tool ucas.com Arts Council England www.artscouncil.org.uk Crafts Council www.craftscouncil.org.uk Creative Choices ccskills.org.uk D&AD www.dandad.org Design Council www.designcouncil.org.uk NAJ: Jewellery Education & Training www.najeducation.co.uk National Careers

Jewellery Courses

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

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

West Dean College Assists in Microgapping

As Alison Baxter, Head of School of Art at West Dean College commented: “We are aware how popular Microgapping has become and our courses are the perfect way to begin to learn a new skill in a short time. The courses at West Dean are a great opportunity to spend a day, or longer, if time allows to get into the flow of a new creative experience, and who knows it could be the start of a new hobby, or even a new career!” For those who would like to learn a new creative hands-on skill in a short period

Deputy Warden of the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office Retires

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

QEST Grants Summer 2025

Applications for QEST Grants funding will open 9 July 📢 Calling all Makers & Craftspeople! 📢 QEST offers three grants to support makers and conservators at various career stages, strengthening the pipeline of talented craft professionals in the UK. They provide funding for education and training, with Scholarships of up to £18,000, Emerging Maker grants of up to £10,000, and up to £12,000 towards an apprentice’s salary. Successful Scholars also get a place on the @cockpitstudios Professional Development Programme. Since 1990, QEST has awarded £7 million to almost 900 individuals, thanks to the generous support of its donors. Supporting a

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

Rising Stars 2024

Rising Stars 2024 New Ashgate Gallery, Farnham 16 March - 27 April 2024 Rising Stars is a curated national platform that fosters and champions early career makers. Rising Stars offers the makers a first step into the professional exhibitions. It offers an exciting opportunity for collectors who wish to support and acquire work by future stars. Following a popular open call with 165 applications, 27 Rising Stars were selected for the showcase. We recognise there is a lack of representation from Black, Asian, and ethnically diverse backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ makers and makers who identify as having a visible or non-visible disability in

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

PRESS RELEASE: The 2025 Valuers' Conference Delivered Education and Community in Equal Measure

Jewellery valuers, students, international guests and wider trade joined together in Birmingham last weekend (7-8 June) for two days of learning and networking for the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) Valuers' Conference, hosted by the Institute of Registered Valuers (IRV). The 36th Valuers Conference, supported by headline sponsor Bonhams, saw international and UK experts share their wisdom and expertise on Saturday. These included… Kate Flitcroft shared insights from a distinguished auction career, reflecting on her experiences at Bonhams and what they reveal about jewellery valuation today. Dr Aaron Palke explored the latest GIA research into coloured stone origin

Q&A: Vivien Johnston

Vivien Johnston is the original ethical jewellery pioneer. Trained at Glasgow School of Art, she had quickly developed a career as a commercial Jewellery Designer, reaching the position of Head Designer in the early noughties where she was placed in charge of sourcing. This led to Johnston founding the first British ethical jewellery brand, Fifi Bijoux, in 2006. Since then she has established herself as a leading light in the field of responsible sourcing of precious metals, diamonds and gemstones – an Ethical Supply Chain Specialist, who has consulted on a national and international basis for a variety of jewellery

Ralph Turner 1936 - 2017

We include an obituary on the esteemed and seminal writer, gallerist, exhibition curator and craft champion Ralph Turner who died on 29 September 2017. An important encouragement pioneer in the use of new thinking and materials in modern jewellery, Ralph Turner influenced an entire generation of jewellers, his legacy lives on. Taken as a whole Ralph Turner’s career was concerned with the enlightenment of Crafts practice and its audience however it is for his influence on jewellery, “The New Jewellery” that he will be most remembered. Having arrived as an actor in London in 1960 he was introduced to studio

David Poston, The Lateral Maker @ The Scottish Gallery

David Poston: The Lateral Maker Scottish Gallery, Edinburgh 4 January - 1 February 2020 The Gallery presents a showcase of jewellery from David Poston, covering different aspects of his creative career including his signature work in stainless steel and forged titanium. Born to British parents in Moscow, Russia in 1948, David was educated in the United Kingdom and graduated from the jewellery design course at Hornsey College of Art. He worked as an artist-jeweller using mainly non-precious metals and other materials from 1970 until 1984. In 1985 David chose to change course by studying for a PhD in Engineering focused on the

Jeweller / Bench Jeweller, Ashes With Art - Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham

[youtube url=http://youtu.be/61JVBZu0TDM] The role Jeweller / Bench Jeweller Ashes With Art Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham It’s time to add a 5 Jeweller to our Birmingham studio! If you are looking for your next exciting role or have been waiting for the right opportunity to progress your career in a high performing team and studio, we would love to hear from you. As a business we continually innovate and develop our product set. The quality of our jewellery is exceptional, our service is flawless and we celebrate the customer. We create a positive working environment and believe all staff should have

Striking Futures

The NAJ and Sheffield Assay Office Join Forces for Striking Futures Event The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) and Sheffield Assay Office are pleased to announce Striking Futures, a new collaborative event designed to help businesses and students get ahead in the jewellery industry. Taking place on Thursday, 3rd November, Striking Futures promises to be a must-attend afternoon, whether embarking on a career in the sector or looking to boost your business. Register NAJ’s Principal Officer, Ben Massey, states, “We’re excited to collaborate with the Sheffield Assay Office to deliver an educational industry event that will provide great value,

Q&A: Alan Craxford

Alan Craxford is an esteemed master craftsman, probably best known for his painstaking and meticulous hand crafted work with hand engraving and the creation of one of a kind jewellery and silver pieces. His career spans some 40 years in the Craft, having held positions, other than his work as a practitioner, at Sir John Cass as Senior Lecturer, and as a founding member and former Chair of the Hand Engravers Association, and well as being a member of the Contemporary British Silversmiths. Using form, colour and surface texture in precious materials, as a metal artist he creates bespoke pieces

Second Careerist Jewellers - Establishing A Creative Business Through Further Education

Second Careerist Jewellers - Establishing A Creative Business Through Further Education 20th March 2024 Morley College + Online Join ACJ Director Melanie Eddy, as she chairs a panel discussion with three second careerist jewellers: AngeBDesigns, Ella Fearon-Low and Poppy Norton. Find out about how they became interested in jewellery and their journeys towards a new career. This will be a hybrid event, available in person and online. Date: 20th March 2024 Time: 6:00 -7:30pm Location: Morley College and online - 61 Westminster Bridge Road London SE1 7HT Room: WB13 The event is free but booking is essential Please visit

Canine

Canine 29th June - 28th September 2019 The Craft Centre & Design Gallery, Leeds, West Yorkshire Sculptural works of art for the home or garden by a collection of celebrated UK makers. Man’s best friend is explored through a variety of materials which have been cleverly handcrafted into different breeds of dogs as well as those animals closely related to dogs such as wolves and foxes. Pippa Barrow Born and raised in Southern Africa, Pippa qualified as a goldsmith and went on to work for the artist-jeweller Wendy Ramshaw in London for over ten years. A major career change followed

Munich Jewellery Week 2024

Munich Jewellery Week 2024 28 February - 3 March 2024 Munich Jewellery Week is an annual, independent, artist-run contemporary jewellery initiative that takes place in the city of Munich every March. The success of the event, which grows exponentially every year, is in thanks to the spirit of collaboration by jewellery artists and designers from all over the world: students, emerging, mid-career and established art jewellers alike come to present their jewellery on their own terms, and in their own unique ways. MJW has gained a reputation for being the most important event for the field worldwide, and the number

Jonathan Burton appointed as CEO of Cockpit

Cockpit, London’s leading centre for contemporary craft, have announced that Jonathan Burton has been appointed as CEO. He replaces Annie Warburton, who stepped down in December 2023, and will assume his role at Cockpit in late April 2024. Immersed in the arts throughout his career, working across opera, fine art and crafts, Jonathan has a strong understanding of craft and making. His experience and engagement in the arts and culture sector is reflected in his marketing roles at Tate and at English National Opera, his eight years as Director of the London Art Fair and six years at London Craft

Canine

Munich Jewellery Week 2025

Munich Jewellery Week 2024 12–16 March 2025 Munich, Germany nnual, independent, artist-run contemporary jewellery week Next edition 12 〰️ 16 March 2025 Munich Jewellery Week is an annual, independent, artist-run contemporary jewellery initiative that takes place in the city of Munich every March. The success of the event, which grows exponentially every year, is in thanks to the spirit of collaboration by jewellery artists and designers from all over the world: students, emerging, mid-career and established art jewellers alike come to present their jewellery on their own terms, and in their own unique ways. MJW has gained a reputation for

Appointment: Dr Frances Parton new Deputy Curator of the Goldsmiths’ Company

The Goldsmiths Company has announced that Dr Frances Parton has been appointed as Deputy Curator in the Collections Team. Frances Parton has a long and established career in the museum and heritage sector, having most recently spent time in curatorial roles with The National Trust, English Heritage and the V&A. She brings to the role a wealth of knowledge in decorative arts, contemporary and historic metalwork, silver and jewellery. With a PhD and MPhil from Cambridge University, a BA from Durham University and a track record of well received publications, Frances brings an impressive breadth of knowledge and distinctive perspective

Q&A: Joanna Hardy

Joanna Hardy is the well known jewellery personality behind the Antiques Roadshow, but she has built her 30 year career in jewellery from the rough diamond valuing tables at De Beers to the heights of premier auction houses, latterly Sotheby’s in Bond Street. Previously having worked at Philips the auctioneers, Joanna has also worked in Antwerp, and has been responsible for jewellery auctions worldwide in New York, Geneva and London. She is also a published author on specialist jewellery tomes with Thames & Hudson and has recently launched an educational online Jewellery Foundation Course. Joanna now is an independent fine

HARVEST: Contemporary Craft Fair

Call for Applications: HARVEST: Contemporary Craft Fair Applications are open for contemporary craft makers to participate in our new selling show coming to Edinburgh this autumn. Craft Scotland is delighted to announce applications are now open for makers to participate in our new selling show coming to Edinburgh this autumn. Craft Scotland is inviting applications from makers for an exciting new exhibition showcasing contemporary craft. We are seeking up to 50 makers who represent an array of materials, techniques, and career stages. Pieces on display will be available to buy at a wide range of prices, from £30 to £20,000+.

Sarah Hutchison creates new pre-loved market for contemporary handmade jewellery

Sarah Hutchison creates new pre-loved market for contemporary handmade jewellery with SH Chance to Sparkle using Insta. Sarah Hutchison’s career as a well known silversmith and jeweller pivoted 12 years ago when she opened her own contemporary jewellery gallery in Edinburgh's Morningside. The stylish boutique come gallery showcases the work of over 40 different makers and has a loyal following of clientele. Sarah uses the shop to also sell her own work, she launched a new collection in the Spring, and very recently added a thriving ecommerce website to the mix to facilate sales and spread the gallery’s reach further than

Former National Association of Goldsmiths CEO Michael Hoare passes

Veteran jewellery industry stalwart Michael Hoare has passed after a long battle with cancer. Michael studied in the mid seventies at Leicester Polytechnic now De Montford University, and achieved a BA Hons Degree in Fine Art. After graduation he started his professional career in the retail business and joined the Co-operative Midcounties where he worked as a Department Store Manager until 1988. As a brief spell as a Training Consultant he joined the British Independent Retailers Association (BIRA) as saw a very speedy transition into management, and Executive management level. Furthering his interest in both training, retail and trade bodies, [youtube

Q&A: Jeff Lowe

Jeff Lowe is an internationally acclaimed sculptor and jewellery designer. Educated at the famed St. Martins School of Art, under the esteemed Sir Anthony Caro, Phillip King and William Tucker, Lowe's career skyrocketed as a result of his first one man show at the prestigious Leicester Galleries in Londonʼs Cork Street. He answers the Benchpeg Q&A... For the past forty years, Jeff Lowe has remained at the forefront of contemporary abstract sculpture, representing Britain at the Paris Biennale, recieving the Sainsbury award in 1975 and the Pollock-Krasner award in 1993. He has been exhibited at museums and galleries around the world, with significant

Preparing to Sell - Bovey Tracey

Preparing to Sell - Bovey Tracey Wednesday 5 February 2025 Make Southwest, Bovey Tracey, TQ13 9AF Preparing to Sell on Tour After a thumping success of Preparing to Sell in Cardigan last week, don't miss the chance to meet Craft Fair in Bovey Tracey and Hereford. These lively and useful days, led by Sarah James MBE, Director of Craft Festival and Find a Maker, gives makers at all stages of their career, the best possible advice for selling directly to the public, marketing and diversifying your business. Each day has a different flavour. Dates and Locations: Feb 5th at Make

Susie Freeman, Martin Smith and Jane Adam @ Ruthin

Susie Freeman, Martin Smith and Jane Adam @ Ruthin Ruthin Craft Centre 18 January – 29 March 2020 Gallery 1: Susie Freeman: WOWI + A Retrospective of work by Susie Freeman including Pharmacopoeia with Dr Liz Lee Susie established herself as a textile artist of great originality early in her career. As a postgraduate student at the Royal College of Art, following Manchester School of Art where she had studied weaving, she invented a knitted network of pockets using a monofilament thread: into each small transparent pocket she dropped a tiny object before safely sealing them with a further row

Preparing to Sell - Hereford

Preparing to Sell - Hereford Thursday 20th February 2025 Hereford College of Arts Preparing to Sell on Tour After a thumping success of Preparing to Sell in Cardigan last week, don't miss the chance to meet Craft Fair in Bovey Tracey and Hereford. These lively and useful days, led by Sarah James MBE, Director of Craft Festival and Find a Maker, gives makers at all stages of their career, the best possible advice for selling directly to the public, marketing and diversifying your business. Each day has a different flavour. Dates and Locations: Feb 5th at Make Southwest Bovey Tracey⁠

PRESS RELEASE: Brigadier Ed Butler CBE DSO appointed 698th Prime Warden

Brigadier Ed Butler CBE DSO has been appointed 698th Prime Warden (chairperson-equivalent) of the Goldsmiths’ Company – a new Prime Warden is elected from the Court of Assistants (board-equivalent) every year. Now a highly respected specialist in strategic risk and resilience, Ed spent 24 years serving in the British Army, achieving his career ambition at the age of 38 when he took command of 22 SAS (the 22nd Special Air Service regiment). He chairs the Lloyds’ Patriotic Fund, chairs the Development Committee of the Clocktower Foundation (the SAS charity), and is City Colonel, Rifles’ Regiment for Greater London. A self-professed

Precious Statements. John Donald: Designer & Jeweller

Precious Statements. John Donald: Designer & Jeweller by John Donald & Russell Cassleton Elliott McNidder & Grace have printed a exceptional account of Johns life and his path into jewellery designer and master craftsman. From his early days of golfing-star dreams, a chance introduction to the Silver and Jewellery Department at the RCA and then onto a fascinating career in jewellery and silversmithing. This unique book tells the story of John Donald, British jeweller, designer and goldsmith, from his early days at art college to establishing a successful business in London and Geneva and an international reputation. In over 50 years

Preparing to Sell

Preparing to Sell Craft Festival MAKE South West in Bovey Tracey Our popular, one day training and networking day, Preparing to Sell will be hosted at MAKE South West in Bovey Tracey on Wednesday January 25th. This lively and useful day, which is led by Sarah James, Director of Craft Festival, gives makers at all stages of their career, the best possible advice for selling directly to the public. The day includes presentations by Rosie Davies from PR Dispatch and Instagram Specialist, Lou Chudley, from Spark Social. Venue MAKE South West, Riverside Mill, Fore Street, Bovey Tracey, Devon, TQ13 9AF

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

Q&A: Gary Williams

Gary Williams is a Director at Presman Bullion Ltd, a company based in Hatton Garden which is one of the largest reclaimers, processors and recyclers of precious metal jewellery scrap, sweeps and residue services to the UK’s jewellery trade. He also sits on the Board of parent company, Mastermelt Ltd. Gary's career in the jewellery industry spans some 40 years, having started out working as a representative for a jewellery wholesaler, then for award-winning manufacturer Brown & Newirth Ltd, leaving as their Sales & Marketing Director. Gary was also a Director with Amore Cranleigh Ltd, a Surrey based retailer specialising

Make Your Mark 2019

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

Appointment: Lizzie McAuley joins Board of Houlden Group

Luxury jewellery consortium, the Houlden Group, have announced the appointment of Lizzie McAuley as the latest Director to join the Board. As a Director of Bedford based Baker Brothers Diamonds – the luxury family-run jeweller of merit founded in 1839 - Lizzie’s rich heritage and wealth of knowledge in the diamond trade makes her an invaluable asset to the Board. After a varied career in Buying for designer and supermarket brands such as Hugo Boss and Tesco, Lizzie joined Baker Brothers after her Father became ill, moving rapidly through an intense programme of training and completed her diamond grading, gemmology

Make Your Mark 2017, Day I

Make Your Mark 2017 Events Programme - Tuesday 31 October Free entry for students, tutors, apprentices and masters or anyone looking to enter the trade. Make Your Mark, the UK’s leading networking and career development event for new precious metal designers and makers, returns to Goldsmiths’ Hall in the City of London from 31 October – 1 November 2017. Now in its fourth year, the event comes complete with a treasure trove of opportunities to help emerging designers, apprentices and students of jewellery and the allied trades develop successful careers in the field. The free two-day event is open to

Make Your Mark 2017, Day II

Make Your Mark 2017 Events Programme - Wednesday 1 November Free entry for students, tutors, apprentices and masters or anyone looking to enter the trade. Make Your Mark, the UK’s leading networking and career development event for new precious metal designers and makers, returns to Goldsmiths’ Hall in the City of London from 31 October – 1 November 2017. Now in its fourth year, the event comes complete with a treasure trove of opportunities to help emerging designers, apprentices and students of jewellery and the allied trades develop successful careers in the field. The free two-day event is open to

Appointment: Michael Prideaux elected as Prime Warden for 2018-19

Each year, four Assistants at the Goldsmiths' Company are elected to become Wardens, who meet regularly and act as the Company's executive committee. The senior warden is known as the Prime Warden and serves for a year, changing over in May. Michael Prideaux has been elected as Prime Warden for 2018-19. Michael spent much of his executive career at British American Tobacco, where he was a member of the Management Board and responsible for Corporate and Regulatory Affairs from 1998 - 2012. He joined B.A.T. Industries, then a diversified conglomerate spanning tobacco, financial services, retailing and paper and pulp in

West Dean College

West Dean is world-renowned for its training in arts, crafts, conservation and design with campuses located in the tranquil Sussex countryside and central London’s thriving Bloomsbury district. Study industry-leading degrees and diplomas and short courses with exceptional teaching, industry connections, flexible learning options, and career support. Courses in metalwork range from making to conservation. You can expect a strong emphasis on developing good hand skills underpinned by theoretical study. Students in all programmes are encouraged to understand historic craft practice in order to place their work in a broader context. The course is delivered in a purpose-designed workshop, with areas

Courses

There are very few specialist jewellery and silversmithing courses in the UK, here we have compiled a list of educational institutions offering higer level courses and also courses with jewellery, silversmithing or metalwork offered as part of the course... West Dean Graduate Diploma Conservation Studies - 1 academic year, full-time The Graduate Diploma (Level 6) is the start of your transition into Conservation Studies. The Graduate Diploma provides the theoretical and practical knowledge and experience necessary to start your career as a conservator and to begin to develop an area of specialisation. The programme is designed to be accessible from

Higher Education Institutions

We've complied a list of all the national organisations offering jewellery, silversmithing or metal at HND or degree level here... West Dean West Dean is world-renowned for its training in arts, crafts, conservation and design with campuses located in the tranquil Sussex countryside and central London’s thriving Bloomsbury district. Study industry-leading degrees and diplomas and short courses with exceptional teaching, industry connections, flexible learning options, and career support. Courses in metalwork range from making to conservation. You can expect a strong emphasis on developing good hand skills underpinned by theoretical study. Students in all programmes are encouraged to understand historic

Catherine Hills: Gill Wing Jewellery Q & A

Gill Wing Jewellery is celebrating its twenty year anniversary with their original featured jewellery artist, then fresh RCA graduate Catherine Hills, by collaborating with and allowing her to 'take over' their gallery in the month of May. Here the gallery interviews the jeweller... How did you become a jeweller? CH: While I was on my challenging foundation year at Maidstone, I discovered my talent lay in 3D work. My initial desire to be a scientific or book illustrator was replaced with thoughts of being a jewellery designer. I was encouraged by my family to find an artistic career that might have a greater

Catherine Hills take over of Gill Wing

Catherine Hills take over of Gill Wing Jewellery for 20 Year Anniversary To celebrate the twenty year anniversary of Gill Wing Jewellery, the gallery we invited our long time exhibitor Catherine Hills to create a window installation showing her design processes through sketchbook, tools and ephemera she uses in her work and still life styling. Gill Wing also have used the launch of their new website launch to publish an interview with Hills' about her work with The Harry Potter films as welll as her own work life balance, sharing some tips when jewellery is both passion and your career.

Dancing with Danger

Donald Duck and Tintin might struggle to compete with nature or music as mainstream sources of artistic inspiration but for Max Danger, comic strip characters have sparked a stream of ideas and helped shape a notable career. Comics were everywhere when Danger was growing up at home in Copenhagen, Denmark because his father worked as an illustrator. Danger followed the comic strips avidly rather than read books though he did make an exception for books about science, especially if they featured retro robots from the 1950s. Years later, those two influences continue to loom large in his work with illustrations forming

Acts of Resistance by Marianne Forrest

Acts of Resistance by Marianne Forrest The Vittoria Street Gallery is delighted to host Acts of Resistance a solo exhibition by Marianne Forrest, watchmaker and creator of sculptural timepieces for urban spaces. As the seasons changes and the clocks turn back for the autumn equinox this timely exhibition showcases Marianne’s lifelong obsession with time. During her career as a master silversmith she has not only made machines and timepieces to tell the time but has also examined the idea of time through processes used in drawing and making. Timepieces on display will include watches that wear away with time, pocket

Alan Craxford at 70

Alan Craxford is well-known for his highly individual application of hand engraving on precious metal, both jewellery and larger silver pieces. His work frequently tells a story or spins a tale of magic and wonder: the stars, the moon, the cosmos are favourite inspirations for his genuinely precious and dazzling one-off pieces. This showcase makes it possible to appreciate the interconnections and interactions between the varied work Craxford produces. Precision and fine craftsmanship are in abundance in the pieces here, which span Craxford's rich and long career and reflect his varied interests. Alan was made a Freeman of the City

Women’s Jewellery Network to Launch at IJL

Women’s Jewellery Network to Launch at IJL The Women’s Jewellery Network (WJN), a new organisation designed to connect, grow and inspire women in the industry, will make its debut at International Jewellery London (IJL) in September. The WJN aims to create a UK-wide network of women working across all sectors of the UK jewellery and watch trades, providing career advice and business networking opportunities. It will launch as a membership platform with access to online support and resources, strengthened with seasonal meet-ups and events to connect women with their peers in the trade. While the full concept will be unveiled

National Apprenticeship Week 2017

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW 2017) is co-ordinated by the National Apprenticeship Service, the week is designed to celebrate the positive impact apprenticeships and traineeships have on individuals, businesses and the economy. National Apprenticeship Week 2017 will be taking place from 6 to 10 March. The 10th National Apprenticeship Week will bring together employers and apprentices from across England to celebrate the success of apprenticeships over the last decade and will seek to encourage even more people to choose apprenticeships as a fast-track to a great career. Search the NAW online map to find more information about National Apprenticeship Week events

Nel Linssen 1935 - 2016

Renowned Dutch paper jewellery artist, designer and maker Nel Linssen has died on 1 August 2016 aged 80. We write an obituary. The meticulous and mathematically minded Linssen lived in Nijmegen, the Netherlands and was renowned for a jewellery career which was dedicated to working in and experimenting with paper as a material. Nel was educated at the Academy of Arts in Arnhem, when she embarked after graduation on work with mosaics, tapestries and stained glass windows. However in the 1980s she started to experiment with folded washable paper making forms of jewellery in the shape of bracelets, necklaces and decorative

Advanced Stone Setting

Advanced Stone Setting The course will be led by Scott McIntyre, Scott has over 21 years of experience in the trade, working in a variety of workshops in Glasgow and Edinburgh. In his career, he has picked up an extensive skill-set from these various places and worked tirelessly to ensure he’s at the very top of his game where he has received a high level of intense training. He now works as head Goldsmith in the incredible Brazen Studios . Price of the class includes all materials, tools, stones and lunch per day. This advanced stone setting course is for people

Introduction to Wax Carving

Introduction to Wax Carving The course will be led by Scott McIntyre, Scott has over 21 years of experience in the trade, working in a variety of workshops in Glasgow and Edinburgh. In his career, he has picked up an extensive skill-set from these various places and worked tirelessly to ensure he’s at the very top of his game where he has received a high level of intense training. He now works as head Goldsmith in the incredible Brazen Studios . Wax carving is an essential skill on the road to becoming a complete goldsmith. It is cheap, forgiving, and a

Call for Applications: Training Bursaries, Heritage Crafts

Call for Applications: Training Bursaries, Heritage Crafts These training bursaries are targeted at new entrants and early-career craftspeople experiencing financial hardship. They are sponsored by National Lottery Heritage Fund, Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation, Capri Holdings Foundation, City & Guilds Foundation, Army Benevolent Fund, Royal British Legion, Ashley Family Foundation, Sussex Heritage Trust and Malcolm and Rosalind Gammie, and are part of a suite of awards and bursaries offered by Heritage Crafts to support and celebrate heritage craftspeople. Apply for up to £4,000 to start training in a heritage craft or to further develop your skills. Many people are dissuaded from training in heritage crafts because of the cost, and therefore the make-up

Q&A: Guðbjörg Kristín Ingvarsdóttir

Guðbjörg Kristín Ingvarsdóttir is a goldsmith, Jewellery designer and co-founder of the award-winning sustainable jewellery brand Aurum, Iceland's leading jewellery brand. Guðbjörg began her career studying goldsmithing at Copenhagen Technical College, completing her journeyman’s examination in 1993. She completed her master craftsman examination in goldsmithing at Reykjavík Technical College in 1994, subsequently returning to Copenhagen to study jewellery design at the Institute for Precious Metals. Guðbjörg collaboratively ran the jewellery workshop Au-Art in Copenhagen from 1996 to 1999, before returning to Iceland where she founded the design and jewellery firm Aurum. Guðbjörg’s jewellery designs have attracted much attention worldwide and

Jerwood Art Fund Makers Open 2022

Jerwood Art Fund Makers Open 28 January – 9 April 2022 Jerwood Arts , London Anna Berry | Cecilia Charlton | Jahday Ford | Vicky Higginson | Francisca Onumah and Helena Russell Jerwood Art Fund Makers Open returns in 2022 for its eighth edition, showcasing new work by Anna Berry , Cecilia Charlton , Jahday Ford , Vicky Higginson and Francisca Onumah and Helena Russell . The se outstanding early-career artists and makers are displaying their commissions at Jerwood Space , London until 9 April 2022. Showcasing a broad range of material disciplines, including glass, textiles, digital modelling, silversmithing and