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

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

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

Thomas Lyte commissioned to create the Laver Cup

Rod Laver, Roger Federer and John McEnroe have unveiled The Laver Cup for the first time, amid great expectation for the new competition. It will be contested to celebrate the career and exceptional achievements of Australian great Rod Laver, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis player of all time. Six of the best players from Europe will compete against six of their counterparts from the rest of the world for the new trophy in September. Three of the greats of tennis, past and present, unveiled the newest trophy in world tennis, the Laver Cup. Rod Laver,

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

Colour Your World With Gemstones

Mineral crystal gemstones are without a doubt the cherry on top of the cake when it comes to the jewellery world and are hands down fully loaded with captivating myths, folklore and legends! With a fascinating plethora of coloured gemstones knocking about in the world, the variety of healing properties and metaphorical symbolism behind each stone is specific, unique and communicates an individualistic creative energy to each wearer Newsflash! I am a girl (woah, shocking eh?). Therefore I like my Jewellery. If I find myself scampering around in the big wide world without my forever present bracelets, rings and shell

The Opulent World of Margot McKinney

Margot McKinney ,  a designer of high–end, luxury jewellery exudes elegance and sophistication whose craftmanship boasts unique cuts with extravagant designs for the chic, fashionable, and cosmopolitan woman. Margot’s love of travel provides a constant source of inspiration for her designs and her appreciation for fine gems guides her unique approach to her “one of a kind” creations. Margot’s work is admired for the imaginative way in which a myriad of precious gems are combined as if they inexorably found each other. The innovative designs of her pieces have led to a wide celebrity following, including Dita Von Teese, Andie

Official Timekeeper for Clipper Round the World Yacht Race

British watch brand Elliot Brown has signed up as the Official Timekeeper for the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race 17/18. To mark this partnership Elliot Brown will be launching a new flagship collection called Portland Adventurer in time for the start of the race. The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is one of the greatest challenges of the natural world, an endurance test like no other. A fleet of twelve identical 70-foot ocean racing yachts, battle it out over 40,000 nautical miles during 325 days enduring all the elements. Built around our proven shock and water-proofing systems, the ‘Clipper

Thou shalt covet to An Exotic World

An exotic and coveted treasure, a symbol of gratuity, cheer and hospitality, the humble Pineapple has adorned and intrigued us for years. Come 2016, the adoration has not wavered - Gucci, Moschino and Prada used the exotic fruit in their various SS16 collections, Aquazzura has adorned their latest heels with the spiky treasure and Matthew Williamson’s recent foray into furniture saw Pineapples feature as the headline act. The craze for this favourite tropical plant is well and truly at its most ‘fruitful’! Come this September this love will be even further infatuated thanks to the launch of a chic and contemporary Pineapple candle –

Welcome To The Dark Side Of The Jewellery World

With fingers hot on the unpredictable fashion pulse and the 90s revival unfurling from the style graves of the past, dramatic sensualism and extravagant grandeur have been creeping out from the deep, dark underworld ready to make a killer appearance on the fall fashion roller coaster. There's no doubt that making a boldly bodacious entrance this season is the crucial fashion nod of enviable approval with seductive demonic designs swathing the catwalks in gloomy glory! A tricky trend to keep romantic and mysterious without finding yourself as an extra member of the Adam's family who face planted the dressing up

Te Ao Hurihuri: Ever Changing World

Te Ao Hurihuri: Ever Changing World 250 years on from James Cook’s historic voyage from England to New Zealand, two cutting edge jewellery collectives embark upon their own journeys.  Handshake (NZ) and Dialogue Collective (UK) navigate around the impact of colonialism to create a bejewelled voyage like no other...    Te Ao Hurihuri: Ever Changing World showcases work by twenty-two artists who specialise in using jewellery to communicate ideas. The work on display shows a diversity of materials, techniques and scale. Cultural backgrounds and migrated ancestry influence the work that each artist makes on their own voyage. An openness to

Annual World Gunmaker’s Evening 2017

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

The World’s First Functional Bitcoin Watch

A combination of luxurious craftsmanship and technical innovation, the Vanguard Encrypto by Franck Muller is the world's first functional Bitcoin watch.  While the watch serves not only its purpose of telling time but also acts as a gateway to accessing the millennial gold of this era, the cryptocurrency. About Bitcoin Bitcoin, a well-known digital currency, with no centralised bank, allowing peer-to-peer transactions without a 'middle-man'. The software for Bitcoin was implemented in 2009, as open-source code.  Since then, it's captured the imagination of the press and the criticism of economists, with some calling it a 'speculative bubble', where asset prices

Navigating the World of Ethical Jewellery and Responsible Mining

'Navigating the World of Ethical Jewellery and Responsible Mining' A panel discussion with jewellery designer Ute Decker and gemstone dealer Stuart Pool Monday, 22 May 2023 18:00 - 20:00 Join ethical-making champions Ute Decker and Stuart Pool for an evening of inspiration and advice. We will look at hot topics in the jewellery industry including the supply chains of gemstones and precious metals, as well as current trends such as recycled metals and their merits. Come and consider how your jewellery practice can evolve and how your choices can cumulatively have a big impact environmentally and socially. There will be

Glass with a world inside: Jewellery by Mio Toyoda

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

Sotheby's Diamonds showcase world's rarest white rock

A 'perfect' white diamond had a coming out party today in London and was immediately made available to purchase though Sotheby's Diamonds who match the worlds rarest diamonds with the worlds richest collectors. Its value is believed to be around £25 million though Sotheby's who unveiled the 102.34 carat rock as part of their first year anniversary celebrations have put it on the market for an undisclosed sum. Extraordinarily rare, the white diamond, mined in Botswana, is the only known round brilliant-cut diamond over 100 carats with an extra cachet of being flawless in colour and clarity. It is the

Clogau Collaborate With World Renowned Designer David Emanuel

Clogau have commissioned an exclusive jewellery collection, by Welsh fashion designer, David Emanuel. To celebrate their Welsh culture, British heritage, and royal connections, Clogau are thrilled to announce a new partnership with iconic fashion designer and royal couturier, David Emanuel. This exciting new collaboration celebrates love and glamour, capturing the romance and luxurious extravagance of our royal heritage and all its connotations. Internationally renowned David has been designing clothes for members of British and European royal families, and for some of the World’s most beautiful women for over thirty years. Best known for having designed the wedding dress worn by

Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong Special Edition 2022

Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong (JGW) The special edition of Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong (JGW) is returning to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) from 16 to 19 September with showcase after showcase of exciting product debuts, networking opportunities, and inspiring and educational onsite activities. The four-day physical event is once again broadening its appeal beyond its core B2B audience by welcoming jewellery lovers clamouring for the show’s “I Love Jewellery” experiences and attractions, said David Bondi, Senior Vice President of Informa Markets in Asia. Attendee registration for trade buyers and jewellery lovers is now

Joanna Hardy Launches The World’s First Online Jewellery School

Acclaimed global jewellery specialist Joanna Hardy has launched her own online jewellery school at Masterpiece this year. The school features an interactive online classroom where you get personal advice from Joanna and is powered by award winning internet company, www.learningwithexperts.com Joanna explained, “My intention is to create a world class online jewellery school, where enthusiastic amateurs or professionals can be introduced to the world of jewellery. I’m expecting people ranging from interested hobbyists, career changers, professionals wanting to improve their knowledge – right through to members of the boutique high-end jewellery trade. Through my course I can teach you wherever

Coronavirus: Antwerp World Diamond Centre postpones all planned events

The Antwerp World Diamond Centre has today announced that it has made the decision to postpone all of its planned events due to the c oronavirus  outbreak. It issued a statement saying: "Due to the recent developments regarding the Cornonavirus and the advice given by the local and federal governments, AWDC has decided to postpone all planned seminars, AWDC Cafes, events, etc., at least for the coming month. W e are evaluating the situation constantly and will keep you posted on any further developments. We also advise all companies within the industry to postpone all non-essential meetings, seminars, business trips etc.

Antwerp World Diamond Centre hold online seminar explaining ‘grandfathering’ principal

The Antwerp World Diamond Centre have reported on an update on the Grandfathering Principle that was announced in mid-July as part of G7’s 14th sanction package against Russia, enabling diamond companies to regularise their ‘existing stock’. Specifically, it concerns stock of non-industrial, natural and synthetic, rough and polished diamonds of Russian or unknown origin, which were in a company's possession before the sanctions measures against Russia came into force, i.e., before 1 st  January 2024. These goods, which fall under the Grandfathering Principle, are exempt from the ban on Russian diamonds and are not affected by G7 sanctions because they

Pamper Your Pooch with The World’s Most Expensive Dog Jacket

With a choice of 24k gold, Swarovski crystals or diamonds you can now kit out your dog with a bejewelled and encrusted 24k gold dog jacket to keep your canine companion blinged up. However, the most expensive doggy jacket in the world has also incorporated nano technology within the specialised fabric to keep working dogs as safe as houses in their daily working lives. Kit out your pooch with 24k gold, diamonds, bows and n ano metallizing technology   Doggy Armour and VeryFirstTo.com have announced the ready to market armoured dog jacket which can be encrusted with a choice of

Henryka marks World Oceans Day with new sea life designs

The campaign to protect the oceans from plastics and other garbage is gaining momentum and British jewellery maker Henryka has signed up with a commitment to reducing waste and by extending its sea themed range to draw attention to World Oceans Day on June 8th. Blue Planet II, the hit BBC TV series that delivered a clear and shocking message about the scale of the  plastics problem and the harm it was doing to the ocean's ecological systems, has triggered a flurry of interest in all things related to saving the oceans, including jewellery featuring designs of sea animals under

The Goldsmiths’ Company Delivers the Largest Conference in the World to Date to Address Jewellery Materials

Last week, the Goldsmiths’ Company delivered the first Jewellery Materials Congress. The conference, which is the largest conference world-wide to address jewellery technology, was created to support the jewellery and silverware community, by providing a forum for the exchange of knowledge to better the industry, free of commercialisation.  Over the two-day conference, a wide agenda of topics was addressed through a series of talks and Q&A, broadly categorised by four themes: academic research, visions of the industry, and artisan and industrial materials manufacture. These talks were delivered by a panel of eighteen international speakers, including keynotes delivered by Eddie Bell,

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

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

East and West Dialogue: One World One Dream, ‘How to Develop the Sustainability of National Craftsmanship’

East and West Dialogue: One World One Dream,  ‘How to Develop the Sustainability of National Craftsmanship’ The London Design Academy 9.30am, Saturday 29 August 2020  The exciting international educational initiative – The London Design Academy (LDA) –  continues the global educational debate this weekend with the second in a series of online global forums, East and West Dialogue: One World One Dream,  ‘How to Develop the Sustainability of National Craftsmanship'  live online on Saturday 29 August 2020 9.30am     With the world facing unprecedented economic and social challenges in the aftermath of COVID 19, these forums are themed to the

World’s Most Expensive 18ct Gold Marmite Jar Unveiled

The world’s most expensive jar of Marmite has been unveiled, created for those who were born lovers of Britain’s most divisive yeast spread. The iconic British brand has created the one-off luxury item to honor its Marmite loving fans, following the recent research from one of the UK’s leading genetics labs, DNAFit. The study unveiled that Brits are genetically predisposed to loving or hating Marmite. Dipped in 18ct gold, the plated jar weighs in at a whopping 498g1 and is rumoured to be worth an eye watering £1,500 according to independent valuators, Boningtons Auctioneers. Engraved to replicate the style of [youtube

Norwich Jeweller Creates World’s Most Expensive Nappy Cream Lid

Any moment now the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will be welcoming a new member into their family – a historic moment and a cause for celebration for the whole country. Norwich-based, independent family jewellers Tillett’s has created the Meghan Sparkle, a diamond- encrusted Sudocrem lid to celebrate the royal birth. With a price tag of £4,250, the ‘Meghan Sparkle’ is a pavé-set 925 silver lid, hand-engraved with the flags of the United Kingdom and the United States of America, sized to fit a 125g pot of Sudocrem. Capturing the “natural charisma and sparkle of Meghan herself” the lid will

Alexander Wood's jewellery skills earn top ten in the world place

Young British jewellery maker Alexander Wood left Abu Dhabi with a champions medal after earning a coveted top 10 place at the 44th WorldSkills Competition recently. Alexander, a member of the Goldsmiths’ Company Apprenticeship Scheme and currently earning his spurs with Ian Read Diamond Setters in Kent,  received a Medallion of Excellence for reaching the international standard in the Jewellery skills category.  His achievement was the result of three years worth of training,  honing his silversmithing, polishing, micro-setting and enamelling skills though he started his selection process for WorldSkills back in September 2015 when he became one of eight trainee

PGI Conference at Jewellery and Gem WORLD Hong Kong To Illuminate Platinum’s Role in Shaping the Future of the Industry

While outlining key trends in jewellery, experts will highlight platinum’s potential for opportunity, innovation and attracting new consumers Platinum Guild International (PGI) spotlights platinum’s prime role in the future of jewellery at the influential trade show Jewellery and Gem WORLD Hong Kong, which returns to the city from 18-24 September 2023 after a three-year absence. Commanding attention on the Fair programme, PGI will host a conference to discuss platinum’s potential as the precious white metal of choice and a significant value creator for future consumers. To be held on 21 September 2023 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the

Royal College of Art ranked world's top art & design university for fifth year

The RCA leads the table of 200 of the world’s top universities for the study of art and design in the 2019 QS World University Subject Rankings, ahead of much larger institutions around the globe.  The ranking consolidates its position as the world’s internationally renowned art and design university, offering unrivalled opportunities in art and design.  Dr Paul Thompson, Vice-Chancellor of the Royal College of Art, said: ‘I’m proud and honoured that the Royal College of Art has been recognised as the world’s number one university for art and design for the fifth year in succession.  ‘As a small, specialist

Sixteen of the World’s Best Emerging Fashion Designers to Exhibit in London at the International Fashion Showcase 2019

The International Fashion Showcase (IFS) nurtures and presents work from the best up-and-coming fashion talent from around the world. The biennial fashion presentation is a partnership between the British Council, British Fashion Council, London College of Fashion, UAL and Somerset House. For London Fashion Week this February, the showcase has a new format. For the first time, 16 selected designers from across the globe will showcase a series of compelling installations to represent their respective country. The designers will explore politics, sustainability, identity and heritage and show their latest designs in immersive environments. The 16 countries represented are: Bangladesh, Brazil,

The Royal College of Art is World’s Leading University of Art and Design for Third Year

The Royal College of Art has again been named the world’s leading university of Art and Design in the 2017 QS World University Subject Rankings, beating top-ranking global universities including MIT, Stanford, Yale and Rhode Island School of Design to the top spot for the third consecutive year. The premier ranking confirms the RCA’s position as the world’s leading university of art and design. In the UK, the College is recognised as being at the forefront of innovation, supporting more successful start-ups than Imperial College and Oxbridge combined, and with 45% of our graduates starting their own creative industry and

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

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

London Craft Week puts making on The World Stage over 5 days and 200 events

Design has one. Fashion has one. And since 2015, craft has had one too. Back for its fourth edition on 9 May, London Craft Week opens the doors of makers’ workshops, invites the public into previously off-limits corners of the capital, and reveals the exquisite quality and staggering variety of modern craft practice – both here in the UK and internationally. This year is its biggest, and most international event yet, bringing the world’s finest makers to London for a dynamic and interactive celebration of making in all its forms – from ceramics and fashion to watch-making  and letterpress. Whether

Razzledazzle on the red carpet at Met Gala and Cannes

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

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

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

CARAT+ 2018

CARAT+, The World’s Premier Diamond Event Covering the full spectrum of the diamond and diamond jewellery trades, CARAT+ features four main sectors: loose diamonds, branded diamond jewellery, non-branded diamond jewellery and services for the diamond and diamond jewellery industry.  This year, due to popular demand, there is also a Coloured Gemstones sector. Taking place in Hall 1 and Hall 4 of the Antwerp Expo, entry to the show is restricted exclusively to industry professionals, including diamond and jewellery wholesalers and manufacturers from around the world, and jewellery retailers from across Europe and the wider world.  Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC)

Adornment Meets Masculinity: Men's Jewellery

For a fair few gentlemen the mere word 'Jewellery' is enough to make their pumped chests shrink and reach straight for the beers to reinstate all things masculine. When it comes to stepping foot in the jewellery world, it's fair to say that woman are pretty much catered for hand on foot for a plethora of tastes, personality and style. Bold and bodacious adornments, dazzling multi-coloured gemstones and trend-led catwalk pieces; a womans' jewellery wardrobe is like stepping into the undiscovered world of Narnia - imagination knows no boundaries! However, if you behold the jewellery world of men you'll find

“We wear culture”: Google Arts Collaborates With The V&A

From the fusion of fashion with surrealist art to Vivienne Westwood’s anarchic designs, the V&A collaborates with Google to unlock the world of fashion with a new virtual experience, "We wear culture". The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) joins over 180 renowned cultural institutions around the world from the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the Palace of Versailles to create the largest ever virtual exhibition of style. The “We wear culture” project by Google Arts & Culture uses state-of-the-art technology to allow viewers to explore 3,000 years of world fashion and discover the stories behind the clothes we wear today.

Chocolate Hour Strikes

Boldly versatile, uniquely captivating and an understated way to make any ensemble sizzle with heat; chocolate brown is the new black, darling. From warming champagne tones, whipped cocoa butter accents to earthy, rich hues of fertile soil, the striking world of ticking timepieces is heating up its embodiment of everyday elegance by indulging our sweet teeth with wristwatches coated in seductive shades of chocolatiers finest. Fashion is a conveyor-belt world of trends, forecasts and collections and the world of wrist wear is keeping watch. With changing political settings, changing attitudes and changing faces, it seems about time for a switch

Counting Down To Baselworld 2017

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

International Women's Day 2017

IWD 2017 #BeBoldForChange For International Women's Day 2017, we're asking you to  #BeBoldForChange . Call on the masses or call on yourself to help forge a better working world - a more gender inclusive world. Submit your  #BeBoldForChange  action via the IWD website. International Women's Day Last year, organizations and individuals around the world supported the  #PledgeForParity campaign  and committed to help women and girls achieve their ambitions; challenge conscious and unconscious bias; call for gender-balanced leadership; value women and men's contributions equally; and create inclusive flexible cultures. From awareness raising to concrete action, organizations  rallied their people to pledge

Bits and Bobs

Keeping up to date with the goings on outside of the workshop and away from the bench helps widen the peripheral vision.  W e've compiled a list of national and international jewellery publication titles including newsletters, magazines and our favourite blogs to help keep you in touch with the wider world...

Vicenzaoro January – The Jewellery Boutique Show 2020

Vicenzaoro January The Jewellery Boutique Show (VOJ), the international show of reference for the gold and jewellery world, at its Expo Centre in Vicenza opened on Friday. 1,500 brands will be exhibiting at Vicenzaoro January – representing the entire production chain – organized into communities based on positioning and target to make it easier for traders and buyers from over 130 different countries to tour the show. The event will opened with the much-awaited seminar organized by CIBJO, the World Jewellery Confederation, entitled “Size is important. Responsible, sustainable supply and SMEs ”. VISIO.NEXT, also was staged on the opening day,

Jewelry Stories

Jewelry Stories to 16 April 2023 New York, USA MAD was an early advocate of jewelry as a form of artistic expression. Its 1956 inaugural exhibition,  Craftsmanship in a Changing World , gave many Americans their first exposure to metalsmiths who were challenging the norms of conventional jewelry design and creating works rooted in sculptural experimentation. Because of the support of MAD and like-minded institutions, makers, and collectors around the world, the concept of jewelry as an art form took hold and flourished. To date, the Museum has presented more than 150 exhibitions featuring art jewelry and there are more

Clerkenwell Design Week 2025

Clerkenwell Design Week 2024 20 - 22 May 2025 Clerkenwell, London Clerkenwell is home to more creative businesses and architects per square mile than anywhere else on the planet, making it truly one of the most important design hubs in the world. To celebrate this rich and diverse community, Clerkenwell Design Week has created a truly unique way of showcasing world leading leading interiors brands and emerging design talent. Featuring 600+ showroom events, 15+ curated exhibitions, striking installations, topical talks, design destinations, a fringe programme, food and drink partners and more, the award-winning CDW has firmly established itself as the UK’s

CONTEMPORANIA

CONTEMPORANIA 28 - 30th September 2023 Palau Reial Pedralbes, Barcelona  CONTEMPORANIA High Craftsmanship Barcelona is a brand new exhibition promoting national and international contemporary crafts. It is organised by the Consortium of Commerce, Crafts and Fashion of Catalonia (CCAM), and Le Département. In this first edition, international institutions such as World Crafts Council Europe, World Crafts Council Africa, CCAM, Fundesarte, JORGC, Sudakas – Habitantes del Sur (Chile), and Sichuan Fine Arts Institute will present the best of high craftsmanship worldwide. Participants have been selected based on their professional portfolio, the innovation and artistic vision in their craftsmanship across different types of

Coronavirus: Responsible Jewellery Council orders workers to go remote

As the new coronavirus disease, officially named COVID-19, has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization the Responsible Jewellery Council has ordered its staff to work remotely. They issued the following statement: Members of the jewellery and watch industry are going through a challenging time, affected by the current health and economic climate. The Responsible Jewellery Council team would like to extend its thoughts to all stakeholders and their families around the world. As the virus continues to spread extensively, we have taken additional precautionary measures. We need to be proactive and minimise the risk of the virus

Dazzle Contemporary Jewellery at Dovecot Studios Edinburgh

Dovecot Studios Edinburgh host Dazzle Contemporary Jewellery  22 August - 12 September 2020 Dovecot Studios, Edinburgh Dovecot Studios, Edinburgh is hosting two new exhibitions this August featuring the very best of contemporary jewellery and Scottish textiles, alongside world-famous tapestries and the mid-century designs of Mary Quant, Terence Conran, Laura Ashley, and Eduardo Paolozzi. From Friday 7 August, Dovecot Studios will fully reopen the world-famous tapestry studio to visitors for the first time since lockdown. Visitors have the opportunity to see Dovecot weavers at work on both rugs and tapestries in the award-winning building. Opening Saturday 22 August, Dazzle will present

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.

Royal College of Art Show 2020

Royal College of Art | RCA2020 Meet the next generation of artists and designers 850 students around the world 300+ global events Led by the RCA student community, with over 300 global events involving renowned artists and special collections of student work chosen by RCA alumni and guests including Es Devlin, Andreas Gursky, Edward Enninful, Magdalene Odundo, Anya Hindmarch and Gus Casely-Hayford. The digital discovery platform will feature an international student cohort of around 850 emerging artists, designers, architects and creatives from their spaces around the world. Led by the RCA students from our four schools, Architecture, Arts & Humanities,

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

Classic Blue 19-4052: Pantone Colour of the Year 2020

For over 20 years, Pantone's Colour of the Year has influenced the design and buying decisions acorss several indsutries, including industrial design, interior furnishings, fashion and graphic design to name a few.  Pantone colour experts comb the world looking for new influences, including fashion and travel destinations, new technologies, textures, socio-economic conditions and social media trends that are capturing the world's attention. From these seasonal trend forecasts, Pantone forecast global colour movements to help advise companies on the modern best practise of brand visual identity. This annual colour psychology and colour consulting gives global brands the power to expedite their

London Diamond Bourse Announces Changes in Leadership: Joint Presidency and Historic Appointment of First Female Vice President

The London Diamond Bourse is pleased to announce significant changes within its Council of Management, aimed at ensuring the continued growth and success of the organisation. After careful consideration and unanimous approval from the committee, the following decisions were made: Joint Presidency: During last year’s annual general meeting, Mr. Alan Cohen, the current President, announced that this year would mark his final term in office. As President, Alan holds key positions within the World Federation of Diamond Bourses’ Executive Council and the World Diamond Council, among others. To allow Alan to focus on these critical responsibilities, and with unanimous support

Gaelle Khouri extends Soft Destruction collection

Gaelle Khouri has developed an addendum to her acclaimed Soft Deconstruction collection. The Next Perspective sees the Lebanese-born designer continue to examine the inner world as in her preceding collections. Khouri’s fascination lies in the intangible realm of the mind and thoughts.  The story behind this latest collection ruminates on the notion that humans are prisoners of their own mind, incapable of attaining the true world. However, this in turn highlights the concept of individuality, which will, when well-grasped and expressed, grant us tolerance and a degree of freedom from the prison of mind.  The collection is suffused with philosophical

Shannon O’Neill Designs 2018 Randox Health Grand National Trophy

The Grand National has been part of the British landscape since the 1830s and attracts world-leading jockeys with their eye on the glittering trophy. Designed by celebrated silversmith, Shannon O’Neill, this year’s trophy was conceived in her studio, a former stable, in the grounds of Burghley House in Stamford. Its subtle details perfectly tell the story of the greatest horse race in the world and the preventative healthcare innovations of the principal sponsor, Randox Health. This is the second year running that Shannon has been awarded this prestigious commission after Randox representatives saw her work on display at The Goldsmiths’

From The Greenhouse @ The Scottish Gallery

From The Greenhouse @ The Scottish Gallery  The Scottish Gallery presents From The Greenhouse , an exhibition curated by Millie Behrens celebrating, for the first time collectively and in Scotland, three Norwegian jewellers all inspired by botany and the natural world. Millie, Ingjerd and Åse-Marit are extremely grateful to Norwegian Crafts for the funding that has helped to make this exhibition possible.  Knowing each other since the eighties through Art College and various other means, Millie, Ingjerd and Åse-Marit all realised they had a similar interest in botany and the natural world, leading them each to design and create contemporary

Henryka’s ride on the Sausage Dog wave

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

Tropical Coloured Fun

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

Jessica Brown Findlay glitters in De Beers at The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society film premiere

Jessica Brown Findlay glitters in De Beers at The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society film premiere British actress, Jessica Brown Findlay, of Downton Abbey fame, chose to wear De Beers at the world premiere of the new film Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society World Premiere this week. The jewellery on show consisted of London By De Beers Thames Path Earrings, featuring white diamonds, set in white gold, main diamond: 2.21 carats, total weight: 7.52 carats. De Beers Phenomena Stream Ring, featuring white diamonds, set in white gold, total weight: 2.28 carats. De Beers Diamond Solitaire Ring

Dynamic new trends take shape at IJL 2017

Spotting important new trends will be as easy as 1-2-3 for exhibitors and visitors to IJL 2017 when the latest product ranges from over 550 high end jewellery manufacturers, designers and suppliers from 32 countries around the world are rolled out at Olympia over three days. World famous as a ‘360 degree’ platform for striking deals, networking and sharing knowledge, IJL 2017 will kick off a range of new features including newly themed seminar theatres, workshops and a dedicated Skills Lab to showcase talent and skills. A new Retail Experience Area is designed to help retailers enhance their in-store offer

Scotland’s art colleges sign up to Ethical Making Pledge

The Incorporation of Goldsmiths celebrated a major milestone in its drive to make Scotland the world leader in ethical silverware and jewellery by gathering Scotland's jewellery colleges at its symposium and adopting an 'Ethical Making Pledge'. Representatives of Scotland’s leading art colleges offering HND and degree level courses in jewellery and silversmithing gathered last week at an international symposium and put their names to the Incorporation of Goldsmiths’ Ethical Making Pledge designed to help the country become a world leader in ethical gold and silver work. The move reflects a growing determination among makers, designers, educators and consumers to demand

Munich Jewellery Week 2019

From 11 until 17 March 2019, Munich Jewellery Week will showcase avant-garde contemporary jewellery by established and up-and-coming designers from all over the world. This yearly gathering is by far the most significant event on contemporary jewellery’s calendar; it’s a unique phenomenon, which plays a pace making role in the contemporary jewellery field. Hundreds of makers, students, educators and collectors come from all over the world to be inspired by this diverse programme that ranges from artist-run exhibitions, book launches and lectures to performances, mobile presentations and parties. We highlight some of the most interesting exhibitions in the very packed

Women’s Work: Pioneering Women in Craft, 1918 – 1939

Women’s Work: Pioneering Women in Craft, 1918 – 1939 Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, Sussex 4 May – 6 October 2019 This Spring, Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft will present a major new exhibition on the work of craftswomen who turned their practices into successful businesses between the two World Wars. Women’s Work will focus on pieces made by textile artists, weavers, ceramicists and silversmiths, many of whom were informed by their experiences traveling during the First World War. Often overshadowed by their male counterparts, these pioneering women achieved success by looking to past techniques to create contemporary

‘Legacy Collection’ luxury jewellery line is launched by Parham Ramezani

Entrepreneur and jewellery designer, Parham  Ramezani  introduced his new ‘Legacy Collection’ luxury  jewellery  line to London and the UK during an evening recpetion with guests including the likes of Jenson Button. The event introduced press, influencers and esteemed members of the luxury world to the brand. The celebration was cohosted by F1 world champion and ambassador of the brand, Jenson Button.   Guests included Mark Francis from MIC as well as Ladies of London it girl, Noelle Reno.    The inspiration behind the Legacy Collection comes from the majesty of La Scala, the Opera house in Milan, home to some

Hot Watch: The Pieces to Clock onto this A/W'18

Just like shop windows and displays are getting dressed up in a flurry of new autumn vibes, designs and style, the watch world has struck our magpie eyes with an array of buzzy, exciting and charasmatic designs guarenteed to make you kickstart the autumn fun with a bang! Whilst the watch world likes to tick to its own beat and not follow the fashion whimsies of our ever-changing seasons, it is without a doubt as much as a fashionable accessory as the new it bag of the season! Whether it's pantone-selected colour combinations, intricate, structural design or modern updates on

Chime with the Times: The Top Watches for 2018

It's not only the outfit that oozes a person's style and charm but also the finer details they wear on the side. With an endless selection of shape, size, colour, design and style, a beautiful, sleek and intriguing timepiece is set to clock in as the must-have accessory for 2018. Just like the economic status of the world, the watch industry has experienced more than its fair share of ups and downs in popularity but this year, the jewellery world has clocked a slow and steady rise in demand for luxury wrist wear. From simple and seamless two-handed tickers to

Step into super natural delights

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

Jewellery: Anthropological Perspectives Lecture by Max Carocci

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

States of Play, Crafts Council - Hull

  The Crafts Council’s new exhibition  ' States of Play' ,  will launch at Humber Street Gallery in Hull in July,  UK City of Culture,  and will look at how playfulness shapes our lives and the world around us.  The  Crafts Council’s  new exhibition  will be on show from 7 July – 24 September. Through the eyes of 16 international makers and designers it presents play as a way of being, of understanding the world and giving it form. In an era of screen-based games, it celebrates the physical element of play in ways that will delight, provoke and surprise

Hidden, RCA

The RCA’s technical staff have a wealth of skills knowledge as staff and students know well – from an award-winning photographer, to Lady Gaga’s shoe designer. To the outside world, these remarkable talents are hidden away.  Hidden  celebrates some of their most innovative creative work. The week-long exhibition will showcase work by over 40 technicians across the College, including an exciting mix of jewellery and textile design, painting and sculptures, as well as handmade bespoke cars and interactive virtual realities. Hidden  will showcase many well-known designers and artists including Natacha Marro, a world-renowned shoe designer. Celebrated for wild and visually

Club Tropicana: 70s Colour Pop

With a British nation still in rocky, murky waters from Brexit, the fashion world have taken their new season sights into a lookbook awash with vivacious colour, flamboyancy and rebellious bursts of bijou. Whilst the political world battles amongst heavy tones of choking debates and pessimism, jump aboard the trend-led train of kitsch with a nod to the peace-loving 70s in all things theatrical, vibrant and positively uplifting! As Spring strikes time on her sleepy arrival to the skies, indulge in the succulent and sweet taste of the bright side of life by injecting a buzz of tropical spirit into

The Little Black Book of Jewellery Terms

Ever felt like you’ve stumbled into a foreign land of unknown territory like Alice falling into wonderland whilst a constant whirlwind of name-drops and fancy words are thrown your way? Welcome to the Jewellery world! Welcome to the Benchpeg library of learning! Listen up and take note as there's a lot to be said for confidently slipping some technical babble into conversation to elevate your respect and cachet within the Jewellery world... Assay Hallmark: The hallmark and coding indicating the office which has assayed a piece of Jewellery. Baguette Cut: A gemstone which has been cut and set into a

Heat, Bash, Buff: Learning To Make A Silver Ring

"Jewellery Has The Power To Be This One Little Thing That Can Make You Feel Unique." - Jennie Kwon Having recently embarked upon my eye-opening journey into the world of Jewellery, my spirit guide, editor and working partner to all things sparkly and juicy in the jewellery world thought it was about time I stopped talking the talk of all things silver and pretty and set my sights upon navigating the benchpeg instead. The idea of flouncing around flaunting my very own silver number sounded absolutely fabulous whilst the idea of me having to make friends with a hammer and

Anastazio Kotsopoulos | Handmade Jewellery

Anastazio distinguished himself early on as one of the youngest jewelry artists in Greece with his unique signature style which harmoniously contrasts industrial, gold netting backgrounds with softly framed sensual gemstones. The Greeks might have discovered him but then the world took notice. An arbiter of style, Vogue UK includes him in the roster of world talented jewelry designers. They, like many, appreciate his simple and delicate aesthetics, with the belief beauty in simplicity. Intricate details and exceptional craftsmanship make every piece a work of art. Drawing inspiration from ancient Greece, he designs his new collection with a woman’s beauty

Crafts Council Exhibition for Hull UK City of Culture 2017

  The Crafts Council’s new exhibition ' States of Play' ,  will launch at Humber Street Gallery in Hull in July, UK City of Culture,  and will look at how playfulness shapes our lives and the world around us.  The  Crafts Council’s  new exhibition  will be on show from 7 July – 24 September. Through the eyes of 16 international makers and designers it presents play as a way of being, of understanding the world and giving it form. In an era of screen-based games, it celebrates the physical element of play in ways that will delight, provoke and surprise

Xifu Announce Judging Panel for International Jewellery Design Competition

The  Xifu  International Gold Wedding Jewellery Design Competition 2017 has announced its prestigious panel of judges, comprising distinguished luminaries in the fields of design, jewellery and the arts. Organised by   JNA   and   CJNA   of UBM Asia, the World Gold Council and the People's Government of  Yantian  District,   Shenzhen, the biennial competition aims to usher in a new era in gold wedding jewellery by encouraging designers from around the world to reflect wedding traditions and customs through fresh and creative designs.   The independent judging panel of the competition's inaugural edition consists of highly respected, esteemed

Pandora Enters Indian Market With First Concept Store

PANDORA, the leading international jewellery manufacturer and retailer has entered one of the largest jewellery markets in the world, where the official opening of the first PANDORA concept store took place in India. This represents a significant milestone for the company and is part of PANDORA’s successful overall strategy of expanding its branded network globally. Today, the Company has more than 2,100 concept stores around the world and sells affordable high-quality jewellery in more than 100 countries. The new concept store, which is owned and operated by PANDORA’s distribution partner Pan India Charms & Jewellery Private Limited (Pan India), is

Lady In Red: Ruby Passion

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

Greenery: The Colour Set to Revive, Refresh, Renew

Welcome to the fresh and zesty world of Greenery15-0343, the Pantone colour blooming into 2017! Greenery is natures' authentic omnipresent hue of thriving; emblematic for vitality and the need to strip back to our organic state of being. After suffering a turbulent political and social upheaval throughout most of 2016, this yellow-green shade symbolises a need to reconnect to nature and a more grounded sense of purpose.  In a world monopolised by social media and technology, 'Greenery' reminds us of noticing the real truth and beauty in the natural aesthetics around us; a sense of escapism from our materialistic society and

Welcoming A Bespoke Beauty: Vaessen | Walker

March has arrived in all its glory and as Spring begins to sprinkle her beauty upon the world, new jewellery brand Vassen | Walker have planted their roots in the jewellery world; blossoming with their  debut jewellery collection ALLORA. Louise Vaessen-Walker is the creative and founding director behind the contemporary jewellery and tableware brand where h er innovative collections have received much recognition both nationally and abroad. Louise has been commended in receiving a number of awards in both design and craftsmanship, most notably the London Assay Office Special Gold Award, and the 3D Innovative Technology Design Gold Award from

Istituto Marangoni London Launches ‘In Conversation With’ Speaker Series with Fashion & Design Elite

'In Conversation With' Jamie Gill Istituto Marangoni London 2nd November, 2022 at 5:30pm Prestigious Italian School Welcomes Experts & Designers - Jamie Gill,   Bill Prince, Anya Hindmarch &  Shaun Leane  This Year World-renowned fashion and design school  Istituto Marangoni London  announces their 2022 ‘In Conversation With’ speakers, including major names in the industry such as Jamie Gill, Bill Prince, Anya Hindmarch and Shaun Leane.  Istituto Marangoni’s powerful cadre of speakers this academic year highlights the school as a formidable player in the fashion world. Previous speakers include Christopher Raeburn, Massimo Giorgetti of MSGM, Francesca Ragazzi of Vogue, Alastair McKimm and Carlos Nazario of i-D, as well as other notable figures that have spoken at

Jewellery, Gem & Technology in Dubai (JGTD) 2024

Jewellery, Gem & Technology in Dubai (JGTD) 2024 Halls 1 & 2 South of the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) in Expo City 12 – 14 November 2024 JGTD Dubai  is a  three-day business-to-business sourcing event for jewellery, gemstones and related technology . Visitors can additionally sign up for the Targeted Buyers Programme running throughout the show, DMCC’s Dubai Diamond Conference and Informa Market’s Jewellery World Awards Dubai. https://www.jgtdubaijewelleryshow.com

Call for Applications: London Craft Week 2025

Call For Applications: London Craft Week Applications for the opportunity to participate in London Craft Week 2025 close on Thursday 12th December. London Craft Week c elebrates outstanding British and international creativity, the festival brings together over 1000 established and emerging makers, designers, brands and galleries from around the world. A curated selection based not on price or fame, but underlying substance. Plus, that essential dash of magic and inspiration that separates great from good. Contact  harriet@londoncraftweek.com for more details. Source: London Craft Week / Walpole

Masterpiece 2022

Masterpiece 2022 30 June - 22 July 2022 Online Masterpiece London is one of the world's leading multidisciplinary art fairs, offering the finest works of art, design, furniture and jewellery, from antiquity to the present day. Attracting established collectors and the culturally curious, the fair introduces visitors to objects they might not otherwise encounter and presents an unparalleled opportunity to discover exceptional works of art for sale. www.masterpiecefair.com

Goldsmiths' Fair goes digital in reaction to pandemic

Goldsmiths’ Fair, the selling event and exhibition for fine jewellers and silversmiths, is launching a digital Fair in 2020. The Fair will provide an online platform for around 130 exhibitors and established visitors, 9,000 of who ordinarily attend the live event at the Goldsmiths’ Hall in the City of London, as well as to new audiences from around the world. The Goldsmiths’ Company, who run the event – an essential stop on the international fine jewellery and contemporary silver calendar – is moving the Fair 2020 and its programme of talks, events and exhibitions online, to support business recovery for

Marzee International Graduate Show 2020

Marzee International Graduate Show 2020 25 October 2020 - 6 January 2021 Academies around the world had to close their doors last Spring due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The final exams of a lot of the graduating students needed to be postponed for this reason as well. In previous years the Marzee International Graduate Show was held in August, but this year we moved it to the end of October to make sure that we could still make this show happen. We are very pleased with the end result – it is yet again an amazing show with a great

VICENZAORO 2017

VICENZAORO, the largest Show in Europe for Gold and Jewellery, is an authentic Business Hub for the industry, able to bring together the most authoritative players in the gold and jewellery world. A primary access route to the European markets, the Russian-speaking countries and the Middle East, it is not only the perfect place in which to develop business and consolidate relations, it is also a privileged observatory for understanding the latest trends in terms of style and design on the gold and jewellery market. For centuries, the city of Vicenza and its surroundings have been synonymous with excellence in

21 GRAMS

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

Istanbul International Jewelry, Watch & Equipment Fair 2019

Istanbul Jewelry Show 21-24 March 2019  Istanbul Expo Center  48th Istanbul International Jewelry, Watch & Equipment Fair  Istanbul Jewelry Show is comprehensive marketplace for international jewelry community and professionals. The ever growing number of participants and attendants accompanied with the value added trade show services have created a unique business environment in one of the fastest developing regions of the world.  Dates 21 - 24 March 2019 Venue Istanbul Expo Center (CNR Expo)  For More Information .istanbuljewelryshow.com

Dendritic Beauty: Still Life In A Stone

As autumn steps up a gear, nature explodes into a fiery mass of natural beauty with not only a sea of leaves amongst our feet but leaves falling into the trends cupboards of the design industry. Welcome to the world of dendritic stone. Within gemmology, agate is an umbrella term for a variety of banded Chalcedony; a mineral belonging to the Quartz family. Whilst not strictly classified as an agate as it is not banded, dendritic agate, also known as tree agate is itself a quartz, displaying a opaque and milky finish. Comparatively, dendritic quartz displays more of a shimmery

Perspectives - Creating Jewellery for a Fairer Future

Perspectives - Creating Jewellery for a Fairer Future Fair and Beautiful – New Exhibition is set to Lead the Way on Ethical Luxury Gorgeous work by nearly 40 leading makers and designers is being brought together in an exhibition dedicated to ethical jewellery and silversmithing. Perspectives will be at the heart of the Elements 4 festival of jewellery, silver and gold, in Edinburgh from 19-21 October. It is part of a wider drive to make Scotland a world-leader in ethical jewellery making and silversmithing. Among the items on show will be designer pieces made using found and waste materials including

Baselworld 2018

Baselworld is the most important marketplace and trendsetting show for the world's watch and jewellery industry. Baselworld distinguishes itself as the only show that regroups all the key players from watchmakers to jewellers, from diamonds, pearls and gemstones dealers through to machines and supply industry. Dates: 23 - 30 March 2018 Venue: Messe Basel, Switzerland Open: Daily from 9 am - 6 pm. (except Thursday, March 30: 9 am - 4 pm) www.baselworld.com

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

International Summer Academy of Fine Arts Salzburg

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

Branching Out

Branching Out, Craft Centre and Design Gallery - Leeds Inspired by the beauty of trees we bring together a selection of talented makers creating contemporary jewellery, ceramics, glass and works in mixed media whose work captures the essence of these remarkably diverse and beautiful marvels of the natural world. Exhibition Run 18th March - 24th June 2017 Venue The Craft Centre & Design Gallery City Art Gallery The Headrow, Leeds West Yorkshire LS1 3AB www.craftcentreleeds.co.uk

The Enchanting Return of Ebony

Prized for its heartwood and beautifully smooth finish on fine furniture and accessories, black Ebony is one of the most expensive and valuable types of wood found in the world. Like most wonders of nature, no two pieces of Ebony Blackwood are alike due to the difference in location and species of heartwood for it to thrive. With Black Ebony increasingly becoming a rarity in discovery, poaching of this fine material has greatly increased due to its value. The darker the wood, the more valuable the piece of Ebony becomes due to being classed as more "pure" and showcasing the

Staffordshire University

We are the Connected  University . We're connected to the needs of our students, to business and to society. Our city campus in Stoke-on-Trent is the  University's  nerve centre. We deliver world class healthcare education at our specialist Centres of Excellence in  Stafford  and Shrewsbury.  Undergraduate 3D Design: Contemporary Jewellery and Fashion Accessories - BA (Hons) www.staffs.ac.uk

NYC Jewelry Week 2024

NYCJW24 18 – 24 November 2024 Manhattan, Brooklyn, Harlem, and online Each November, NYC Jewelry Week proudly presents ‘The Week,’ a 7-day celebration dedicated to the art of jewelry. This annual event invites a global audience to explore the world of jewelry through a dynamic mix of in-person and virtual experiences, spanning New York City and beyond. Our hybrid program features virtual events  streamed on YouTube  alongside immersive on-site happenings. In-person, NYC Jewelry Week brings together leading figures in the jewelry industry to curate extraordinary experiences, including exhibitions, exclusive shopping opportunities, and retail collaborations. Attendees can also participate in insightful panel

Handmade Oxford 2023

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

Nineteen48 One Day Gemmological Workshops

  Nineteen48 One Day Gemmological Workshops Would you like to join me for a day of gemmological learning? In my one-day workshop, I cover a range of gem-related topics, designed to give you an overview of the world of gemstones, rather than a "deep-dive" into one particular area. Suitable for both absolute beginners or people with some gem experience. Please book places using the links to each of the venue's websites. Saturday 20th July (10am to 4.30pm) London Jewellery Workshop londonjewelleryworkshop.co.uk   Sunday 29th September (10am to 4.30pm) Workshop 925, Woking, Surrey www.workshop925.com Saturday 26th October (10am to 4.30pm) K2

Goldsmiths’ Fair 2020 - Online

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

The 2023 Goldsmiths’ Craftsmanship & Design Awards

Held at Goldsmiths’ Hall in London, the annual Awards Ceremony was opened by the Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council’s chair, Anne-Marie Reeves, and hosted by Council Trustees Maeve Gillies and Judith Lockwood, who together announced this year’s award winners. The event welcomed more than 300 guests, including representatives from world-renowned jewellery houses, notable sponsors, industry associations, leading designers, and the UK media.  The Awards presentation was live-streamed which doubled the immediate audience. In her opening remarks, Anne-Marie Reeves told guests and award winners: “ Congratulations to all the winners and especially those who were honoured with special awards. This is

Benchpeg goes all chatty

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

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

Dragons’ Den and The Workbench

The Workbench: Best-friends-turned-jewellers appear on prime-time BBC One TV show after world-first ring carving kits shake up jewellery industry. Best friends Katie and Kirstie built their business after a eureka moment during a craft night with friends. The new series of Dragons’ Den saw this week The Workbench girls pitch their business  on the BBC programme. The Workbench, the world’s first design-your-own ring carving kit, is the result of a lightbulb moment in 2014 between best friends - founders Katie and Kirstie who appeared on the finale episode of the 18th series of Dragons’ Den on the 8th July pitching

Goldsmiths’ Company announces new acquisitions for 2020/2021

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

First Ever State of the Art Jewellery Summit Held in the Summer

The first ever collaboration between The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), The Mineralogical and Geological Museum at  Harvard University  (MGMH) and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) took  place this summer on 23 rd  June in-person at Harvard University. Three of the world's most respected thought leaders come together to explore challenges, opportunities, and the future of responsible practice at the  'State of the Art Jewelry Summit'. Climate change and its implications on the supply chain, the business of technology and the evolution of consumer expectations - the unique day of panel discussions and presentations by global experts, academics and artists shared

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

Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair 2025

Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair 19 - 22 June 2025 Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Asia’s leading mid-year jewellery event is refreshing its brand – Jewellery & Gem ASIA Hong Kong will be held from 19 - 22 June 2025 at Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) with an exciting line up of exhibitors and special events.  The refreshed visual identity reaffirms the show’s commitment to the jewellery world, and that is to connect and engage with the global jewellery community, inspire true partnership and celebrate the very best that the industry has to offer.  Occupying 70,000 square

Media to catch up on whilst in lockdown

We’ve compiled a list of catch up TV, radio and podcasts which you might find useful to while away the hours whilst on lockdown. TV BBC - Handmade https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b05ttnd7/broadcasts/upcoming Episode 1 Filmed without voiceover or music, this film is an absorbing portrait of the complex processes behind the crafting of a steel knife by bladesmith Owen Bush. BBC - Secrets of the Museum Unique arts series venturing behind the scenes at the world famous museum of art, design and performance, the V&A. www.bbc.co.uk Episodes containing jewellery: Episode 6 Behind the scenes at the V&A, transporting a unique car is a

London Craft Week 2024

London Craft Week 2024 London Wide 13–19 May 2024 London Craft Week is a city-wide festival celebrating exceptional craftsmanship, across multiple sectors and disciplines, from around the world. Through our curated programme of events, we shine a light on the creative talent behind some of the world’s most beautiful objects, telling stories of their inspiration, process and materials. 2024 will be the tenth anniversary edition of London Craft Week. Since its inception in 2015, the festival has grown significantly in scale and prominence with nearly quarter of a million visitors enjoying the work of more than 700 makers at events

Baselworld 2020

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

Contemporary Craft & Design Fair 2021

Contemporary Craft & Design Fair Dovecot Studios, Edinburgh Saturday 5 June - Sunday 6 June 2021 10am - 5pm This summer, Dovecot will showcase 24 designers and makers in its world famous Tapestry Studio, offering visitors the opportunity to support our local creative economy. Taking place in Dovecot’s airy spaces, visitors will be able to safely browse the work of contemporary textiles, homeware, jewellery, beauty and accessories designers including Green Thomas, Anne Watson Jewellery, Emily Millichip and Tessuti Scotland. Committed to showcasing the best in contemporary art, craft, and design, Dovecot is delighted to provide a platform for the creative

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

Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair 2020

Hong Kong Jewellery and Gem Fair Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre 25th - 28th July 2020 Asia’s leading mid-year jewellery event is refreshing its brand – Jewellery & Gem ASIA Hong Kong will be held from 25 to 28 June 2020 at Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) with an exciting line up of exhibitors and special events.  The refreshed visual identity reaffirms the show’s commitment to the jewellery world, and that is to connect and engage with the global jewellery community, inspire true partnership and celebrate the very best that the industry has to offer.  Occupying 70,000

Spring into Colour

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

London Design Festival

London Design Festival 13 - 21 September 2025 London Wide London Design Festival celebrates and promotes our city as the design capital of the world. The 23rd edition will take place on 13–21 September 2025. London Design Festival celebrates and promotes the city as a design capital on the global stage. London Design Festival was launched by Sir John Sorrell CBE and Ben Evans CBE in 2003. Building on London’s existing design activity, their concept was to create an annual event that would promote the city’s creativity, drawing in the country’s greatest thinkers, practitioners, retailers and educators to a deliver

Gemstone Discovery Tour South Tanzania 2025

Gemstone Discovery Tour 2025 South Tanzania 26 July - 9 August 2025  One week option available on request Join Hubert Heldner and Kim Rix (Gemstone Detective) on an unforgettable 14-day exploration of South Tanzania's gemstone treasures. This immersive journey will take you on a 2,500-kilometer adventure, delving into the heart of Tanzania's gemstone mining regions. As you traverse the diverse landscapes of South Tanzania, you'll have the opportunity to witness firsthand the fascinating world of gemstone mining. Engage in hands-on experiences, including: Unearthing Gemstone Treasures: Participate in actual gemstone mining activities, learning the techniques and methods employed by local miners.

VICENZAORO 2025 - January Edition

VICENZAORO 2025 - January Edition 17 - 21 January 2025 Vicenza, Italia Vicenzaoro is in September and January: discover the next editions. The best of Made in Italy production from the main manufacturing districts and international excellences will present new products, collection previews and will launch the jewelry trends not to be missed. From precious stones to semi-components, from high jewellery creations to fashion and trendy products, the world of established and emerging watchmaking, up to the most innovative design solutions for packaging, visual merchandising and the most advanced machinery for the sector. vicenzaoro.com  

The Royal Mint announces partnership with Heritage Crafts

The Royal Mint has partnered with Heritage Crafts to launch four bursaries to preserve and champion traditional British craftmanship skills. The UK has an incredible range of heritage craft skills, from blacksmithing to bagpipe making, and some of the finest craftspeople in the world. But many of these skills are in the hands of individuals who have been unable to pass them on, often due to limited training opportunities and poor financial stability, leaving a number of traditional British crafts under threat. As Britain’s oldest business and the original maker of UK coins and precious metals, The Royal Mint hopes

VICENZAORO 2025 - September Edition

VICENZAORO 2025 - September Edition 5 - 9 September 2025 Vicenza, Italia Vicenzaoro is in September and January: discover the next editions. The best of Made in Italy production from the main manufacturing districts and international excellences will present new products, collection previews and will launch the jewelry trends not to be missed. From precious stones to semi-components, from high jewellery creations to fashion and trendy products, the world of established and emerging watchmaking, up to the most innovative design solutions for packaging, visual merchandising and the most advanced machinery for the sector. vicenzaoro.com  

HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show 2025

HKTDC -  Hong Kong International Jewellery Show 4 - 8 March 2025 Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Stepping into a world-class exhibition of timeless elegance, the HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show presents the glamour of the jewellery industry’s sparkling elites. This festival of radiance is recognised as the preeminent annual marketplace for stunning masterpieces, timeless classics and visionary creations. Beyond everlasting beauty and grace, the line-up of industry seminars, jewellery parades and networking sessions delivers exceptional insight. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, Hong Kong (Harbour Road Entrance) www.hktdc.com

Enamelling Workshops - Blending Colours with Enamel

Enamelling Workshops FORGE, Hatton Garden 16 March, 20 April, 6th July Immerse yourself in the vibrant colourful world of enamelling with FORGE’s upcoming workshops! Did you miss out on our last enamelling taster session a few weeks ago? Not to worry! Here’s your chance to join in and master this ancient craft with the talented and multi award winning Linda Connelly with our upcoming enamelling workshops. "Great venue, great tutor, great course, great fun!" - Andrew Beney, February 2024 workshop participant. Cloisonné In this class you will learn how to use vitreous enamelling techniques and cloisonné wires to create a

Turquoise Mountain continues training in Jordan with help of UNICEF

Turquoise Mountain was founded in 2006 by HRH The Prince of Wales to revive historic areas and traditional crafts, to provide jobs, skills and a renewed sense of pride. Since 2006, Turquoise Mountain has restored over 150 historic buildings, trained over 6,000 artisans, treated almost 136,000 patients at our Kabul clinic, and supported and generated over $15.5 million in sales of traditional crafts to international clients, including Kate Spade and London’s Connaught Hotel. Turquoise Mountain has also curated major international exhibitions at museums around the world, from the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha to the Smithsonian Museum in Washington

A Family Journey - Around Europe In 10 Days

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

News Edit: 1 December 2024

A curated edit of this week's national and international jewellery news... The Royal Mint is turning e-waste into gold jewelery: this new campaign tells the story EveryFriday is looking to help The Royal Mint reposition through its Forever Metal campaign, a circular economy story set in the Brecon Beacons, Wales. www.thedrum.com Wild thing: why the animal jewellery trend is inescapable right now Animals have long been cast in jewellery form, but in 2024, they’re the subject of new fascination. www.vogue.com.au Kering expands its generation award to jewellery with Kering Generation Award x Jewelry The conglomerate, in partnership with CIBJO–the World

The Wheel of Time, Wallace Chan at Christie’s

The largest exhibition of Chan’s work in Europe - five decades of art creation Christie’s, King Street, London 4 - 10 September 2023 Featuring one of the largest cut black diamonds in the world "In the blink of an eye, half a century has flown by. I am humbled by the opportunity to present my largest exhibition in Europe at Christie's in London. My heartfelt thanks go to Christie's for supporting my creative journey throughout the years and across the globe. I am also grateful to my long term collectors for loaning the pieces, without their friendship the exhibition would not

Covid Forces Fashion Industry to Explore Virtual Reality Alternatives

As industries across the world have been forced to innovate and be creative in the challenges of COVID-19, one sector which was surprisingly quick to adapt was that of fashion buying. BrandLab, a unique virtual reality showroom developer, saw 500% increase in profit between May and June, as brands moved their physical showrooms to virtual. The growth has led to international investment, with new offices being launched in LA, Paris and New York and plans to expand their business beyond the fashion industry and develop direct-to-consumer platforms for everything from shopping centres and art galleries to car showrooms and football

Winners Announced for The Beyoncé Knowles-Carter x Lorraine Schwartz GIA Scholarship

Inspiration is a driving force in all of our lives, and it was the deciding factor in the difficult decision to select just two recipients for the Beyoncé Knowles-Carter x Lorraine Schwartz GIA Scholarship for full tuition to earn GIA’s Graduate Gemologist diploma through distance education. Inspiration is a driving force in all of our lives, and it was the deciding factor in the difficult decision to select just two recipients for the Beyoncé Knowles-Carter x Lorraine Schwartz GIA Scholarship for full tuition to earn GIA’s Graduate Gemologist diploma through distance education. This scholarship, gifted by world renowned jewelry designer

Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair

The Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair (BGJF) 22 - 26 February  2025 Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok The Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair (BGJF) is among the leading international trade fairs for gemstones and jewelry. Hosted in the impressive Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, this biannual event reflects Thailand's esteemed position in the world of gemstones and jewelry. It's organized by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) in collaboration with the Gems Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT). The fair not only provides a deep insight into Thailand's rich artisanal heritage but also reinforces Thailand's reputation as

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

Graduate Fashion Week 2020

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

Gemfields Hosts Introductory Course in Emeralds, Rubies & Sapphires

As a world-leading supplier of responsibly sourced, coloured gemstones, Gemfields is perfectly placed in bringing together experts to share their in-depth knowledge with the jewellery industry. And it did just that this weekend, hosting a one-day introductory coloured gemstone seminar in London with an impressive line-up of industry experts at the stylish Ham Yard Hotel in Soho. A panel of speakers – including specialists in sustainability, jewellery and gemmology– addressed sales and retail staff from key jewellery brands, lifting the lid on the charm, attraction and complexities of rubies, emeralds and sapphires, the three most coveted coloured gemstones. The latest

Enamelling Workshops - Cloisonné

Enamelling Workshops FORGE, Hatton Garden 16 March, 20 April, 6th July Immerse yourself in the vibrant colourful world of enamelling with FORGE’s upcoming workshops! Did you miss out on our last enamelling taster session a few weeks ago? Not to worry! Here’s your chance to join in and master this ancient craft with the talented and multi award winning Linda Connelly with our upcoming enamelling workshops. "Great venue, great tutor, great course, great fun!" - Andrew Beney, February 2024 workshop participant. Cloisonné In this class you will learn how to use vitreous enamelling techniques and cloisonné wires to create a

SIERAAD 2022

Overwhelmed by two difficult years of Corona, there is now a beautiful 19th edition of SIERAAD Art Fair, International Jewellery Fair. Despite all the Covid-19 troubles, the lockdowns etc. we have participants from all over the world for this edition who will soon be shining in the beautiful Gashouder in Amsterdam. There will be about 130 designers/makers on display. Two academies, one from Maastricht, Maastricht Institute of Arts in the Netherlands and one from Lithuania, Vilnius Academy of Arts, with enormously talented students. This year there is a group of jewellery designers from South Korea, which we are also looking

Fair Luxury Open House

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

Elsa Peretti (1940 – 2021)

Tiffany's star jewelry designer and philanthropist Elsa Peretti dies in Spain It is with great sadness that Elsa Peretti’s death yesterday from natural causes was announced by her family office in Zurich and by the Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation. The designer, who was famous for her creations for high-end US jewelers Tiffany, passed away in a village close to Barcelona, Spain, at the age of 80. Her legacy comprises a body of exceptional design work as well as a foundation dedicated to humanitarian, environmental and conservation causes. A true citizen of the world, her absence will be strongly felt

‘Exceptional’ Silver Goblet Inspired by Seas and Coastlines Joins Prestigious Collection

Incorporation of Goldsmiths award winner’s work shows off Scotland as a home for world-class silversmithing. A young Glasgow-based silversmith is this year’s winner of a unique award where the prize is the chance to create a spectacular handmade goblet – which becomes part of a highly prestigious collection. Caius Bearder (23), left Guernsey to study at Glasgow School of Art, falling in love with the city and the country, and has now been named The Incorporation of Goldsmiths of the City of Edinburgh’s Outstanding Student of the Year. The title is highly prestigious – with the heads of Scotland’s four

Couple Get Engaged With A Ring Made Exclusively From The Smartphones That Brought Them Together

A couple have got engaged using a ring made exclusively* from the smartphones they credit with bringing them together, in a world-first proposal. The ring, created by O2 Recycle to celebrate its 10 anniversary – in partnership with bespoke sustainable jeweller, Lylie’s – has been made from the couple’s recycled iPhone 5s smartphones. The ring is made from the handset speakers and microphones that James and Hayley used for whispering sweet nothings to each other, the cameras they used for selfies and video chat when living apart, and a gold band created using the very circuit boards that kept those

From Inspiration to Innovation Breakfast Event

From Inspiration To Innovation Breakfast! A Jewellery Collective Event 8 -10am, Thursday 19th September Hatton Garden, London Complimentary Breakfast From Inspiration to Innovation Breakfast Event ! This event is brought to you in partnership with Hatton Garden BID A captivating keynote and panel discussion featuring leading figures from the world of jewellery. Come and gain insights, get inspired, and discover how to transform your creative vision into reality. Co Founder of Dower & Hall Dan Dower has 40 + years experience at the bench, design desk and latterly the computer doing 3D design. Always learning, experimenting and practicing his skills,

Laser Welding Workshop

Laser Welding Workshop at FORGE Monday 11 March, 10am-1pm OR 2pm -5pm £85 Join us at FORGE for our Laser Welding workshop taught by expert diamond mounter Justin Wilson and supported by Freeform Fabrication. No previous experience required. Learn from the best with Justin Wilson, who brings 40 years of mounting experience and a decade of laser welding expertise to the table. You’re in capable hands! In this workshop, you’ll uncover invaluable tips and tricks for laser welding, from attaching earring posts to repairing diamond ring claws and welding shanks. It will open up a world of possibilities to you

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

Cockpit Summer Festival

Taking place over two weekends – 10-12 June in Bloomsbury and 17-19 June in Deptford  -  Cockpit Summer Festival and Open Studios will be a joyous, experience of all things making. Cockpit is home to some of the most exciting makers in the world. Spanning every kind of craft, the Cockpit makers are united by their extraordinary skill and imagination.   With free entry , Cockpit Summer Festival and Open Studios is a chance to experience craft, meet with makers in their studios and buy their products direct - and enjoy a great day out. Go behind the scenes and into

Serpenti Metamorphosis by Refik Anadol

Serpenti Metamorphosis   by Refik Anadol Gallery 3, Saatchi Gallery, London 25th November - 23rd December 2022 Bulgari embarks on a new chapter with award-winning media artist and director Refik Anadol. After last year’s success with their exhibition and digital experience in Piazza del Duomo in Milan, it is London’s chance to celebrate the second chapter of  Serpenti Metamorphosis. From November 25th to December 23rd, Bulgari will present an immersive experience with Refik Anadol’s artwork representing its most famous icon, Serpenti, within the world-renowned Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea, London, for the first time ever. It will be the

Q&A: Wallace Chan

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

'Out Of The Shallows’ - Falkland Islands jeweller Alice Clarke's new collection

Fine jeweller Alice Clarke creates one of a kind ocean treasures at the bottom of the World in the Falkland Islands. Her new collection ‘Out Of The Shallows’  was launched last week in New York at the Melee The Show. Living and working in the Falkland Islands, where her waterfront studio sits in Stanley, with a population of 3,000, Alice creates all her work in-house. From casting to stone setting, Alice’s little workshop is a hub of creativity. Alice exhibited her jewellery collections in New York for the first time at the beginning of August. Her “ very nautical year”,

Gold and Treasures from Ancient China

Gold and Treasures From Ancient China From December 1st 2022 to April 14th 2023, L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts in Paris presents “Gold and Treasures, 3000 Years of Chinese Ornaments”, an exhibition showcasing over three thousand years of goldsmithing work in China, through a selection of masterpieces from the Mengdiexuan Collection. On this occasion, a live online conversation will be broadcast from the exhibition. “Gold is the most valuable thing in all the world because it is immortal and never gets rotten. Alchemists eat it, and they enjoy longevity.” -Wei Boyang, alchemist This Taoist text from the Han dynasty (206

BeCraft exhibits at Eleven Steens

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

Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair

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

Loewe Foundation Craft Prize 2022 Finalists 2022 Announced

The Loewe Foundation have announced that their expert panel has selected the 30 finalists of the 2022 Loewe Foundation Craft Prize. Having received over 3100 works submitted from 116 countries and regions around the world, this year expereinced an exquisite level of entries. The overall winner will be announced on June 30 in Seoul, followed by an exhibition of all shortlisted works at the Seoul Museum of Craft Art opening on July 1. 30 works have been selected as Finalists by the Experts Panel. These works will take part of the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize 2022 exhibition that will travel

News Edit: 17 November 2024

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

HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show 2024

HKTDC -  Hong Kong International Jewellery Show 29 February 4 March 2024 Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre Stepping into a world-class exhibition of timeless elegance, the HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show presents the glamour of the jewellery industry’s sparkling elites. This festival of radiance is recognised as the preeminent annual marketplace for stunning masterpieces, timeless classics and visionary creations. Beyond everlasting beauty and grace, the line-up of industry seminars, jewellery parades and networking sessions delivers exceptional insight. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre 29 February 4 March 2024 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, Hong Kong (Harbour Road Entrance)

Midsummer Festival of Making 2020

Midsummer Festival of Making 2020 Friday 19th – Sunday 21st June 2020 Online Cockpit Arts introduces the Midsummer Festival of Making – everyone is invited!  From London to the world, featuring 65 events with over 80 makers, the Festival of Making takes place online, on Instagram, Facebook and Zoom, over the midsummer weekend of Friday 19th – Sunday 21st June.  The packed programme features workshops, panel talks, live demonstrations and studio tours all led by some of London’s leading makers and designers – ceramicists, leatherworkers, weavers, printmakers, jewellers, glass engravers and more.  Many of the events have a midsummer flavour

Giovanni Corvaja Talk, Sarabande Foundation

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

Collect Art Fair 2024

Collect 1 - 3 March 2024 Somerset House, London This year marks the art and craft fair's 20th anniversary Collect is back and celebrating its 20th birthday! Since its launch in 2004, the fair has come to be the leading authority on collectable contemporary craft and design, raising the profile of exceptional makers from the world over. The 2024 edition of the fair – taking place 1-3 March at London's Somerset House – will continue this tradition by bringing together a curated selection of 40 international galleries, who will be presenting pieces from over 400 talented craftspeople. Their work will

Creative Exchange Residency for Craft Practitioners 2023-25

Creative Exchange Residency for Craft Practitioners 2023-25 World Craft Council Europe “The Creative Exchange Residency for Craft Practitioners is Back! Now extended and more flexible, building on the experiences of over 20 previous exchanges.” The  Creative Exchange Residency for Craft Practitioners  aims to foster a collaborative and open learning environment, encouraging craft practitioners to apply their unique skills and perspectives. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful exchanges, contributing to the rich tapestry of European craft knowledge and practice. The call is open to  professional craft practitioners of all levels  from diverse regions across Europe, facilitating exchanges

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

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

Great Scots in Isolation @ The Scottish Gallery

Great Scots  The Scottish Gallery Online 3 - 27 June 2020 The Scottish Gallery are pleased to introduce  Great Scots in Isolation , which is a series of short 1-2 minute films by Scottish Gallery artists from Scotland, UK and internationally. The Scottish Gallery wants to show solidarity to all at this time of isolation and let you into our artists' worlds.  When the country went into lockdown on the 23rd March 2020, our lives changed dramatically. As the world around us closed down, our instinct was to reach out to our artists and allow them to have a voice [youtube [youtube [youtube [youtube [youtube [youtube

Gemstone Discovery Tour South Tanzania 2024

Gemstone Discovery Tour 2024 South Tanzania 27 July to 10 August 2024 26 July - 9 August 2025  One week option available on request Join Hubert Heldner and Kim Rix (Gemstone Detective) on an unforgettable 14-day exploration of South Tanzania's gemstone treasures. This immersive journey will take you on a 2,500-kilometer adventure, delving into the heart of Tanzania's gemstone mining regions. As you traverse the diverse landscapes of South Tanzania, you'll have the opportunity to witness firsthand the fascinating world of gemstone mining. Engage in hands-on experiences, including: Unearthing Gemstone Treasures: Participate in actual gemstone mining activities, learning the techniques

QEST and national Saturday club launch craft&making clubs for 13-16 year olds across the UK

QEST and The National Saturday Club  launch craft&making clubs for 13-16 year olds across the UK The National Saturday Club gives 13–16 year olds across the UK a unique opportunity to study subjects they love for free, on a Saturday at their local university, college or cultural institution.  This new National Saturday Club programme aims to introduce young people to the world of craft and making, creating valuable opportunities for them to develop their creativity and practical skills. Club members will work with varied materials, such as wood, ceramics, glass, metal, and textiles, and will gain an understanding of the

Senior Goldsmith, Queensmith - Hatton Garden, London

The role Senior Goldsmith  Queensmith Hatton Garden, London Culture & Values At Queensmith, we transcend the traditional jewellery-buying experience. Our mission is to revolutionise the world of engagement and wedding jewellery, crafting unforgettable moments for our customers. Our culture revolves around "Be Brilliant," reflecting our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation; "Be Clear," representing transparent communication, ethical practices, and a meaningful impact; and "Be Unique," celebrating individuality, creativity, and inclusivity. Just as we aim to democratise diamond jewellery through bespoke services and craftsmanship, we provide our teams with a similarly customised and exceptional work environment. The essence of Queensmith lies

Turbulence: Metal, Flows in Thinking and Things

Turbulence: Metal, Flows in Thinking and Things 17 January 2024 RCA Battersea,1 Hester Road, London SW11 4AY A symposium which draws new dialogues and approaches to understanding the functions and potential of metals in art and design. Turbulence: Metal, Flows in Thinking and Things  seeks to find new dialogues and approaches to understanding the functions and potential of metals in art and design. Metals create our contemporary world, often just out of view (screen). Metal art and design is highly pluralistic and multi-facetted; the boundaries of which are to be tested and expanded. With an increasing interest in materiality and

Diamond Setter, Queensmith - Hatton Garden, London

The role Diamond Setter Queensmith Hatton Garden, London Culture & Values At Queensmith, we transcend the traditional jewellery-buying experience. Our mission is to revolutionise the world of engagement and wedding jewellery, crafting unforgettable moments for our customers. Our culture revolves around "Be Brilliant," reflecting our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation; "Be Clear," representing transparent communication, ethical practices, and a meaningful impact; and "Be Unique," celebrating individuality, creativity, and inclusivity. Just as we aim to democratise diamond jewellery through bespoke services and craftsmanship, we provide our teams with a similarly customised and exceptional work environment. The essence of Queensmith lies

Sales Advisor, Queensmith - Hatton Garden, London

The role Sales Advisor Queensmith Hatton Garden, London Culture & Values At Queensmith, we transcend the traditional jewellery-buying experience. Our mission is to revolutionise the world of engagement and wedding jewellery, crafting unforgettable moments for our customers. Our culture revolves around "Be Brilliant," reflecting our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation; "Be Clear," representing transparent communication, ethical practices, and a meaningful impact; and "Be Unique," celebrating individuality, creativity, and inclusivity. Just as we aim to democratise diamond jewellery through bespoke services and craftsmanship, we provide our teams with a similarly customised and exceptional work environment. The essence of Queensmith lies

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

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

First Minister wears COP26 brooch

The  City of Glasgow College  ran a competition during Lockdown linked to their HND Jewellery students coursework to design a brooch for the First Minister  Nicola Sturgeon  to wear to COP26. It was to be based on rising sea levels as an effect of Climate Change. The winning brooch was designed by a first year student Aileen Dickie-Adams, inspired by the Corryvreckan whirlpool in Scotland, the 3rd largest in the world. Vipa Designs designs kindly cast her brooch using ethical materials and Aileen, alongside the college's Lecturer Maciej Sankowski, hand finished the brooch, adding the layer of Fairtrade Gold. The

Back to Nature

The main talking point for jewellery 2020? Sustainable fashion.  From necklaces, rings, bracelets to ear cuffs, the use of humble materials were leading the way to align with the world's movement towards a sustainable future. As more and more consumers become aware of the effects of over-reliance on fast fashion, the more tuned in designers are becoming on the importance of embedding sustainable fashion materials throughout their designs.  One way designers are playing with sustainable design is simply doing more with less! Infusing creativity with resourcefulness will see many-a collections tuning down the extra details and refined features and simply utilising

Trove: fine jewellers from the Goldsmiths’ Centre exhibit at Fortnum & Mason

Trove: fine jewellers from the Goldsmiths’ Centre exhibit at Fortnum & Mason From 30th March until 12 June 2023, the fine jewellery collective Trove, representing eight goldsmiths from the Goldsmiths’ Centre in London, will be showcasing their high-quality artisanal designs in the iconic Fortnum & Mason jewellery showroom. Their inspirations span the globe, from the natural world to pop art, family heritage to glitched technologies. All of their jewellery businesses are based at the Goldsmiths’ Centre, an educational charity and creative hub, close to Farringdon and London’s famous jewellery quarter, Hatton Garden. Charlotte Dew, Public Programme Manager explains: “ The

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

Enamelling Workshops - Enamel with Decals

Enamelling Workshops FORGE, Hatton Garden 16 March, 20 April, 6th July Immerse yourself in the vibrant colourful world of enamelling with FORGE’s upcoming workshops! Did you miss out on our last enamelling taster session a few weeks ago? Not to worry! Here’s your chance to join in and master this ancient craft with the talented and multi award winning Linda Connelly with our upcoming enamelling workshops. "Great venue, great tutor, great course, great fun!" - Andrew Beney, February 2024 workshop participant. Cloisonné In this class you will learn how to use vitreous enamelling techniques and cloisonné wires to create a

Elements 2020

Elements Online Event 6 - 8 November 2020 Sparkling Scottish Festival Showcases Designer Gold, Silver and Jewellery Meet the makers online and shop small this festive season Exquisite hand-made work by over 50 established and emerging makers will be on show at Scotland’s sixth annual Elements Festival of Jewellery, Silver and Gold. Organised as a partnership between The Incorporation of Goldsmiths of the City of Edinburgh and Lyon & Turnbull auctioneers, this year’s festival (from 6 to 8 November) will be taking place online. It is hoped that this will allow people from all round the world a chance to

The 240-hour in the Making 'Snowglobe' Ring

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

Advanced Jewellery CAD Modelling in Rhino

Advanced Jewellery CAD Modelling in Rhino by Jack Meyer  This detailed guide is written for intermediate and experienced Rhino 3D CAD users who wish to improve their understanding of NURBS and subdivision modelling methods in Rhino 3D. It explains how 3D modelling applies to jewellery and manufacturing through a combination of step-by-step tutorials, analysis of the software techniques and demonstrations of real world case studies. Packed with essential techniques and strategies, it can be used as a self-learning tool or a classroom text to take your use of Rhino's 3D NURBS and subdivision modelling tools to a higher level. This

Vicenzaoro Hosts Industry's First Ever Hackathon

An earring able to call the police when in danger. A bracelet that warms up thanks to solar energy. A ring that staves off skin problems. A bracelet that explains Italy’s cultural heritage. An accessory able to exploit time. These were the best ideas to come out of the jewellery industry's first hackathon at this year's Vicenzaoro. Vicenzaoro January, staged the first edition of  The Gold Run , the jewellery technology hackathon for more than 60,000 students and researchers, devised in collaboration with Padua University within the context of T.Gold. The Gold Run opened Vicenzaoro to fusion with the world of research, [youtube

Head of David Fowkes Jewellery Climbs New Heights

Dr Rona Mackenzie, Chief Operating Officer of jewellery designer, David Fowkes, is to embark upon the challenge of a lifetime in order to support UK innovators in business. Rona has pledged to climb the highest points in each of the seven continents of the world, starting with Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, last month. All funds raised by Rona will support a new charity, D3, launched to help support businessmen and women in getting creative, innovative and dynamic projects off the ground. David Fowkes is generously supporting D3 through the creation of a unique, handmade piece of jewellery

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

TEFAF Online - New York 2020

TEFAF Online New York 1– 4 November 2020 300 Masterpieces. Exclusively Online TEFAF Online will take place in the time slot of TEFAF New York. This edition is a digital marketplace where every member of our community is invited to showcase one highlight representing their expertise in the top segment of the art market. Every highlight presented at TEFAF Online is vetted by an independent vetting committee composed of the most respected experts in the field. We are honored to showcase 300 dealers from all over the world. The power of TEFAF is in the combined attraction of exhibiting dealers.

V&A launch open-call for homemade signs and rainbow drawings created during lockdown

The V&A has today announced an open-call for homemade signs created during lockdown to enter its permanent collection. From rainbow signs created by children to shop signs and hand-written notes posted in public spaces, the V&A is seeking signs that have been created by individuals and communities in response to the current isolation measures.  During social distancing, homemade signs have become commonplace on our streets. Whether they state temporary closure of a business, express messages of hope or critique, or raise awareness for a good cause, these signs have become a prominent way for us to communicate with the outside world during

Hampshire jeweller introduces lab-grown diamonds collection

Family-owned and run jewellery business in New Milton, Charles Nobel is bringing more choice to its collection in time for the festive season by launching a new range of lab-grown diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are created by subjecting a diamond seed to extreme temperatures and pressures, with rough lab-grown stones crystalising within three to four weeks. Piers Bollard, Director at Charles Nobel commented: “For as long as any of us can remember, diamonds have been the most coveted of gemstones. The introduction of lab-grown diamonds is now causing shockwaves in the world of jewellery. “The techniques and processes for making these

The Glasgow School of Art Degree Show 2024

The Glasgow School of Art Degree Show 2024 31 May - 9 June 2024 2024 Graduate Showcase Launch Physical + Online Work from this year's GSA Degree Show can also be viewed from anywhere in the world via our digital online platform, the GSA Graduate Showcase launching on 30 May. This website features bespoke, curated pages by our graduating students featuring not only their Degree Show work but also other projects and works in progress. The Showcase is a rich resource for industry and those interested in our graduates and keen to find out more about them and look into

Comparing the Struggles and Standards of Fairmined Gold Mining Practices

Fair Luxury Open House:  "Comparing the Struggles and Standards of Fairmined Gold Mining Practices" The next Fair Luxury Open House will be held on Tuesday 14th November at 10am (GMT). "Comparing the Struggles and Standards of Fairmined Gold Mining Practices" For most of us, we use metal mined from around the world, but we will never get to see and experience the process first hand. In this Open House, we aim to give you insights into mining from those who have seen it first hand. Desiree and Saskia were both on the Fairmined trips to Peru in 2022 and Colombia

Jewellery Showcase - Central St Martins 2024

BA Jewellery Design Showcase - Central St Martins 12 - 16 June 2024 1 Granary Square, London  The future: now arriving Join Central St Martins at Granary Square as their students share their work across art, design and performance, and enter the world as forces of transformative creative change. 12 - 15 June, 12 - 8pm 16 June, 12 - 6pm Exhibiting courses BA Architecture BA Ceramic Design BA Culture, Criticism and Curation BA Fashion BA Fine Art BA Graphic Communication Design BA Jewellery Design BA Performance Design and Practice BA Product and Industrial Design BA Textile Design Grad Dip

Mercury Free Mining and the Alliance for Responsible Mining Work to Reduce Mercury Use in Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has awarded a $50,000 grant to Mercury Free Mining (MFM) and the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM) to focus on mitigating mercury use in artisanal gold mining in Ananea, Peru.  The grant provides funding to evaluate ore-testing processes that have the potential to significantly reduce or eliminate the inadvertent release of 5,440 kg of toxic mercury every day by more than 15 million artisanal and small-scale gold miners (ASGM) around the world.  “We’re delighted that this GIA grant supports the discovery and implementation of efficient gold ore concentration methods that may help free millions

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

JewelryAround at Palakiss Winter 2020 during VicezaOro

JewelryAround at Palakiss Winter 2020 during VicezaOro 17 - 22 January 2020 Vicenza, Italy Persian collective JewelryAround  will be showing at Palakiss Winter 2020 (during VicezaOro January). JewelryAround  is all about the the world of contemporary jewellery presenting emerging designers and artists from all around the Middle-East in Europe one day.  Palakiss is an internationally renowned jewellery exhibition which organizes 4 events a year of which 3 are National Exhibitions in which take part Italian and international companies. Palakiss, operating since 1999, is an internationally renowned jewelery center dedicated to jewelery and goldsmiths, which organizes 4 events a year, mainly

London Craft Week 2020

London Craft Week 2020 30 September - 9 October 2020 London Craft Week celebrates outstanding British and international creativity. This year the festival brings together over 250 established and emerging makers, designers, brands and galleries from around the world. Authenticity is at the heart of London Craft Week and the programme aims to attract a broad audience united in their appreciation of imagination, individuality, passion and skill. A curated programme of events across London allows visitors to create their own itinerary, meet the makers and gain access to exclusive exhibitions, demonstrations and workshops. London Craft Week reflects a global trend,

Dainty Does It

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

Tropicool Charm for Summer

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

Bounty of riches for Lucara Diamonds at Karowe

Lucara Diamond's stock rises ever higher after they rolled out yet another massive diamond from their treasure trove Karowe mine in Botswana, on the northern fringe of the Kalahari Desert.  This one, a 472 carat light brown stone, is reckoned to be the third largest ever recovered at the state-of-the-art mine, which was only comissioned in 2012 and has quickly become one of the biggest producers of diamonds in the world. The Vancouver-based mining company acquired the Karowe Diamond Mine from De Beers in 2009  when after 40 years of mining small and low grade diamonds at the site, the

KunstRAI 2019

KunstRAI 2019 Amsterdam RAI, Europaplein 24, 1078 GZ Amsterdam, Netherlands 17 - 22 April 2019 The KunstRAI will celebrate its 35th edition in 2019. Participating galleries will show their autonomous paintings and sculptures, photography and new media. There will also be applied art and design. A few participants will show a special solo booth as part of their in-dept presentation. Others will show a part of there collection in a ever surprising Raw-Edge booth. The fair is established in 1985 and therefore one of the oldest in the world.  Venue Amstelhal (Hal 7) Amsterdam RAI, Wielingenstraat (1078 KK) Open Wednesday

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

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

London Design Fair 2017

The largest collection of international exhibitions, designers, brands, country pavilions, features and exhibitions in one destination during the London Design Festival. Located in the creative heart of East London, the London Design Fair is a four-day industry event that brings together 500 exhibitors from 28 countries, including; independent designers, established brands, international country pavilions, features and exhibitions. As the destination of the annual London Design Festival over 27,000 influential; retail buyers, architects, interior designers, press, designers and design-savvy public attend to see and specify the very latest; furniture, lighting, textiles, materials and conceptual installations from around the world. www.londondesignfair.co.uk

Q&A: Gianluca De Girolamo

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

Parliament of Trees

Parliament of Trees - Catherine Dee Artist and landscape designer Catherine Dee is cultivating a  Parliament of Trees  at Persistence Works. ‘Parliament’ refers not only to gallery visitor conversations and debates concerning trees, but to a ‘language’ of trees cultivated by the artist. On show are Dee’s ‘art povera’ stick sculptures, and installations of tiny living trees comprising landscape designs that may be commissioned (free to non-profit organisations) for planting out at the end of the exhibition. Dee is a world-renowned educator in landscape architectural design and will be available to offer free public advice to individuals and groups on

Istanbul International Jewelry, Watch & Equipment Fair

Istanbul Jewelry Show 11 - 14 October 2018  Istanbul Expo Center  47th Istanbul International Jewelry, Watch & Equipment Fair  Istanbul Jewelry Show is comprehensive marketplace for international jewelry community and professionals. The ever growing number of participants and attendants accompanied with the value added trade show services have created a unique business environment in one of the fastest developing regions of the world.  Dates 11 - 14 October 2018 Venue Istanbul Expo Center (CNR Expo)  For More Information october.istanbuljewelryshow.com

Autumn Treasures of Sparkle & Sophistication

Fun, modern styles of ladylike romance are once again back in vogue this September. Oozing exuberant glamour, maximum embellishment and refreshing confidence, the jewellery cupboards of Autumn/Winter 2017 are saturated with artisan filigree, statement enamel accents, fluid shapes and delicately detailed diamond adornment. As industry events and soiree nights of networking and mischief flock to book up our calendar alerts, all things bewitched with a touch of glitz and kitsch are weaving their way into our statement accessories. As the weather outside chops and changes, the jewellery world is delivering a wonderland of inspiration ready to wrap you up into

Award-winning designer of eco-friendly jewellery moves to Birmingham

Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter welcomes an award-winning designer of eco-friendly jewellery into residence.  Today Elizabeth Anne Norris of EAN Jewellery, will move into the Jewellery Quarter and join other residents in the newly converted 19th-century building, home to world-class jewellery-makers since the early 1900s.  The Jewellery Quarter is Europe's largest hub of businesses involved in the jewellery trade, which produces 40% of all the jewellery made in the UK.  With a highly-regarded reputation, the Jewellery Quarter is a big tourist attraction and people can visit Elizabeth to buy her collections, as well as to attend contemporary jewellery-making workshops, or to

Leyla Abdollahi's new Trinity Collection

London based designer Leyla Abdollahi, known for her use of flamboyant palettes of gemstones, has launched a new collection, 'Trinity'. Inspired by and conceived out of Leyla’s fascination with the mysterious world of astrology and divine geometry, the designs of geometrical crafted gemstones blend spirited colour such as tanzanite, white and champagne diamonds, blue sapphire, white opal and emeralds and highlight rhythmic alignments throughout the collection. Abdollahi's exploration of the relationship between dazzling ornaments and the human body is hown through the use of delicate chains, adding fluidity and sensual, subtle movement. Elaborate and intricately complex designs twinned with skillful

INHORGENTA MUNICH 2018

Inhorgenta Munich will take place over four days from 16 to 19 February 2018. There will once again the opportunity to gather and exchange information about new products, trends and developments in the jewellery and watch industry. Messe München Messe München is one of the world’s leading trade-show companies. It organizes some 40 trade shows for capital and consumer goods and key high-tech industries in Munich alone. 14 of those events are number 1 in the world in their respective industries. Each year more than 30,000 exhibitors and some two million visitors take part in events held at the Messe

Sapphire for those born in September

September can only mean one thing - it's officially Virgo season! Sapphire - the September birthstone - has been treasured as one of the most precious gemstones for thousands of years, long associated with royalty, romance and heavenly blessings.  This ‘royal’ gem is often described as one of the ‘big three’ – sapphire, ruby and emerald – or perhaps ‘big four’ – sapphire, ruby, emerald and tanzanite’ – in the world of coloured gemstones. The word sapphire originates from the Greek word sappheiros, meaning ‘blue stone’. Sapphires are traditionally associated with the blue variety of the mineral corundum but they

Jewellery Quarter BID sponsors micro Businesses at event

JQ designer makers are preparing to show off their talents at a new event dedicated to uniting makers, builders and inventors from around the world. A collective of talented designer makers from the Jewellery Quarter are set to exhibit at a brand new international show at the NEC next month. Anticipated to be one of the biggest creative events of the year, Makers Central brings together makers, customers, suppliers and hobbyists to share ideas, products, techniques and tools. To promote the vibrant, creative maker community that exists in the area, the Jewellery Quarter Business Improvement District (JQBID) is sponsoring a

Diamonds Are Forever: The Birthstone of April

It's true that diamonds are a girl's (and guys) best friend, especially as those fortunate enough to be born in April have one of the most treasured birthstones in the gem world: Diamonds. Diamond Overview Diamonds attain the reputation of being most of the most prized and rare gemstones due to their level of toughness. In fact, diamonds are 58 times harder than any other mineral on Earth and can only be cut by another diamond. Diamonds are made from only one element: a pure carbon lattice which can occur in several colours including pink, yellow, red, green and blue.

Inhorgenta Munich 2019

Inhorgenta Munich will take place over four days from 22 to 25 February 2018. There will once again the opportunity to gather and exchange information about new products, trends and developments in the jewellery and watch industry. Messe München Messe München is one of the world’s leading trade-show companies. It organizes some 40 trade shows for capital and consumer goods and key high-tech industries in Munich alone. 14 of those events are number 1 in the world in their respective industries. Each year more than 30,000 exhibitors and some two million visitors take part in events held at the Messe

Redefining Luxury: Saatchi Gallery Showcases Karen Westland's Fairmined 'Transmissive Vessel'

In another victory for the battle for responsible design, Karen Westland's Fairmined Silver Vessel was exhibited as part of Collect 2019, at the Saatchi Gallery, London. This marks the first time a luxury item of silverware, with such high ethical standards, had been showcased at the international art fair for modern craft and design. Fairmined is an assurance label that certifies gold and silver from empowered responsible artisanal and small-scale mining organizations who meet world leading standards for responsible practices. A Fairmined licensee since 2017, Westland worked closely with suppliers to design a silver item which best utilised the Fairmined

New ethical consultancy launched

New consultancy firm V&V launches to debunk the myth that working responsibly and transparently has to be complicated and costly.    Victoria Waugh, formerly the face behind Fairtrade’s work on gold, has teamed up with supply chain traceability expert Vanessa Brain, to provide tailored consultancy services to jewellery and fashion businesses, in a language that's easy to understand.  Launching ahead of the Fair Luxury conference next week, the duo will work collectively with jewellers and manufacturers to help them understand their footprint on the world and grow  profitable, sustainable businesses.  Services offerred will include support to identify supply chain risks,

Crayola Colour Crush

The month of April is now upon us which makes it just the right time to get our new-season wish-lists  brimming with the trend-train must-haves! With the international fashion weeks done and dusted, we've done our trends research for the upcoming months and there's only two words for it: Colour. Explosion. With the politics and news of the world in a permanent state of gloom and malaise, the creative designers of 2018 have taken action to whip away the dullness with a kaleidoscopic dive into Crayola rainbow colours. Nothing short of uplifting, inspiriting and energising, the underlying message from S/S

Jada Dubai launch £200,000 diamond encrusted shoe

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

Style Buzz: Bejewelled Bugs

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

It's All In The Charm

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

Amberif 2019

Amberif 2019 20 23 March 2019 Amberif  is the world’s most important amber exhibition and the largest jewellery event in Central and Eastern Europe. Here business meets art, creative ideas are born, the latest trends and technologies in jewellery design are presented. Amberif  brings together 470 exhibitors from all over the world and 6,000 trade visitors from 54 countries, with the largest contingents from Russia, Germany, Lithuania, Ukraine, China, UK, Latvia, Sweden, Italy, Denmark, Finland, USA, France, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Estonia and Canada. The event is accompanied by exhibition previews, workshops, scientific seminars and discussion panels. AMBERIF’s highlight is

Karl & Lisa

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

Bejewelled: Badges, Brotherhood and Identity

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

All About That Pink

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

Salisbury Contemporary Craft 2017

Salisbury Contemporary Craft is the new-look event for Salisbury based in the magnificent setting of the medieval cloisters and Cathedral, an iconic environment recognised throughout the world. This is a chance to explore and buy exquisite and beautifully hand-crafted pieces from some of our nation’s best contemporary craft makers and designers. Come and browse a range of high quality items made by skilled jewellers, potters, textile artists and more. Buy that special gift for someone special or perhaps even treat yourself. And take part in some workshops run by expert craft makers and artists in a full programme of participation

Nacre: Melanie Georgacopoulos at Munich Jewellery Week

​ Nacre: Melanie Georgacopoulos Munich Jewellery Week Munich, Germany 13th - 16th March 2019 'Nacre' marks Melanie Georgacopoulos's first solo exhibition for ten years. In this time Melanie has cemented herself as a leading figure in the world of pearl jewellery due to her daring and innovative approach which has seen her slice, drill and facet pearls, fearlessly experimenting with them as a material to great acclaim. In a natural progression from her examination of the pearl, Melanie turned her attention in 2016 to the often overlooked by-product of the pearl industry, mother of pearl. MOP, otherwise known as nacre,

London Fashion Week 2018 - September

London Fashion Week September 2018 – A Celebration Of Culture, Fashion & Art For Everyone London Fashion Week has established itself as one of the most creative and innovative fashion showcases in the world, with its home, London, being one of the most multicultural, vibrant and diverse cities on the planet.   London Fashion Week Festival brings a city-wide celebration throughout the month of September 2018 merging creative institutions, designer businesses and global brands, offering consumer activation in London as a backdrop to London Fashion Week. London Fashion Week Festival opens up the city and celebrates the intersection of the creative industries, from music, art, tech and

International Jewellery London: Inspire Seminar Programme

International Jewellery London: Inspire Seminar Programme 1 - 3 September 2019 Olympia, Kensington  From catwalk theatre to retail theatre, and everything there is to know about fine jewellery, International Jewellery London (IJL), the global meeting place for the jewellery industry, has today announced the full IJL Inspire seminar programme. Leaders from the international jewellery trade will take to the stage to discuss key trends that are shaping the international jewellery and watch industry today, while offering invaluable networking opportunities to jewellery retailers and suppliers from around the world. The IJL Inspire highlights include: SS20 Trends with The Futurist Paola de

Formnext 2017 Additive Manufacturing Show

Formnext 2017 Formnext will feature the latest developments in additive manufacturing and how they complement and interact with conventional technologies. This will uncover new potential in the entire manufacturing process, from design to serial production. Amongst the exhibitors are the world's leading manufacturers in additive manufacturing technologies as well as renowned and innovative companies from industrial tooling, materials, mechanical engineering, metrology, prototyping, product processing, accessories and many more. Formnext will, therefore, highlight the next generation of intelligent manufacturing solutions. Our exhibitors offer the following products and services: Solutions for Additive Manufacturing Industrial tooling Manufacturing solutions Design & product development Quality

NOËL – Designer Gifts Fair 2018

NOËL – Designer Gifts Fair 2018 9 - 10 December 2018 Over 80 designers attentively selected from Romania, Turkey, Bulgaria and Italy are welcoming you at the ninth edition of the designer gifts fair, NOËL – on 9th and 10th December, Casa Universitarilor, in Bucharest. The longest-running and most selective designer gifts fair is inviting you on 9th and 10th December at Casa Universitarilor to seduce you and take you on a super-journey in the world of super-designer creations. “With the occasion of the designer gifts fair’s ninth edition, the image of NOËL is completed by the appearance of the

£8000 Silver commission to mark the end of the Great War

Birmingham based British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) receive the commemorative ‘Silence Fell’ silverware to mark the end of the Great War. Last year the BATF board decided to commission a special piece to join its boardroom silver collection of over 50 items and tasked one of its member associations, The National Association of Jewellers, to help find a fitting item.  A national competition was held to design and make a piece of silverware to commemorate the end of the First World War, taking that ceasefire as inspiration. At the beginning of the year Claire Malet was announced as the designer

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

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

The first edition of New York City Jewelry Week just started!

NYCJW is the first and only week dedicated to promoting the world of jewelry through educational and innovative NYC focused programming. In its inaugural year, NYCJW will feature exhibitions, lectures, workshops, studio tours. Aimed at supporting and fostering jewelry of all types, the initiative also includes participation from both established and emerging brands, individual jewelers, artists, and designers. Image: A yashmak made in the 1990s from aluminum and Swarovski crystals by British jewelry designer Shaun Leane for fashion designer Alexander McQueen Courtesy of the Metropolitan Museum of Art Created by two industry leaders from the worlds of art jewelry and

'Digital Meets Handmade' New York Symposium Review

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

Hush Hush! The Crown Jewels London Debunked

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

Justified Sinner leads modern renaissance in men’s jewellery

The renaissance in modern men's jewellery, driven by avant-garde designers prepared to push the boundaries of conservatism, is attracting international attention with a stunning exhibition called The World is Your Dressing Up Box at The National Centre for Craft and Design in Sleaford. Among the exhibits is a selection of work from the influential designer Dauvit Alexander, the Justified Sinner who is driving the revolution in mens jewellery using customs from the 16th Century when the size of 'bling' was directly related to the wearer's status. Alexander uses scrap metal, mainly corroded steel and iron, alongside precious metals and gemstones,

Ambassador Diamond Necklace Brought to Life

Jewllery Designer Maker Daphne Krinos has created a unique diamond-set necklace for the Goldsmiths’ Company’s Modern Jewellery Collection, supported by Boodles. The Goldsmiths’ Company awarded Daphne Krinos the commission after selecting her design as the winner in their Ambassador Diamond Necklace competition. The brief sought to stimulate advanced British jewellery design and the judging panel was asked to select a necklace design that ‘ radiates individual creativity, spontaneity, exemplary craftsmanship’ and ‘belongs to 2017 in the world of studio jewellery’. Drawing on Daphne’s fascination and observations of cityscapes, the necklace comprises individually crafted sections in 18ct white gold, plated with

Berlin-based ethical jewellery brand, VIERI, launches in the UK

Berlin-based ethical jewellery brand, VIERI Fine Jewellery, this month celebrates its launch into the UK. Handcrafted jewellery made of ethically sourced and recycled gold, VIERI designs collections that illicit feelings of a warm Italian sky, interspersed with crisp white clouds and magical pops of colour.  A brand that truly believes fine jewellery and responsible practice cannot exist without each other, its designer Guya Merkle, founded the Earthbeat Foundation - an establishment that promotes better working conditions and alternative income solutions for gold miners world-wide.   “It is my vision to build a company that not only produces and acts responsibly, but

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

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

Ravish In Resin

Whilst the weather outside is less than Spring fresh and bright, the jewellery world is tapping into trends that will bring our lives some much needed sunshine and colour. Resin jewellery is breaking out into the spotlight and taking centre stage across many springtime collections.  Embodying an organic feel with irregular solid shapes and intricate abstract edges, resin jewellery is increasingly being used by designers to tell a tell a story of a millennial lifestyle. Beautifully preserved organics are embedded within clear and coloured resin cabochons with botanical natural elements in free form design and shapes. A beautifully eye-catching trend

Appointment: Geena Tok leaves Nike to head up Pandora China business

Pandora has recruited Geena Tok from Nike to head its business in China, where the Danish company has been challenged by a rise in sales on the grey market. Pandora has 200 stores and employs more than 1,400 people in China but has said it needs to counter China's grey market, where increasing numbers of jewellery pieces are imported from other markets and sold online. Last month Pandora, the world's largest jewellery maker by production volume, said it would lower retail prices in the country by an average of 15 percent. Chinese resident Tok joins Pandora next month, having spent

Nikki Couppee - A pop and gothic flavor

This week we discover the work of a real experimenter in jewelry field, the American jewelry designer Nikki Couppee writes Ilaria Ruggiero. Originally from Pensacola Beach, Florida, she is currently living in Oakland, California. Her work is located in a very special stylistic dimension, between pop culture and gothic flavor, in a mix of very different languages and codes. I addressed her few questions to better understand her world. IR: Where does your passion for jewelry come from? NC:  Growing up I used to look in my mom’s jewelry box and inspected and tried things on and loved hearing the stories,

Gemfields Launch New Website

Gemfields, a world leading supplier of responsibly sourced coloured gemstones, specialising in emeralds and amethysts from Zambia and rubies from Mozambique launches its brand new website dedicated to showcasing all aspects of the company.  The site offers users key insight into Gemfields’ approach to sustainable and responsible mining at each of the Gemfields’ owned mines, its invaluable education programmes, information on gemstones themselves and ongoing collaborations with renowned jewellery houses and designers.  The new site, designed by the bespoke web design specialists, Chaptr, is the result of over 10 months of research, development and testing, with an impactful and luxurious

Precious Mysteries film to set 'enigmatic' tone for Goldsmith's Fair

Precious Mysteries, a unique new film installation created by celebrated fashion filmmaker Ujin Lin will set an 'enigmatic, highly-polished, and breathtakingly beautiful' tone for the 2017 Goldsmith Fair starting in September. Lin, the guest curator at this years Fair at Goldsmith's Hall was commissioned to create the film which will feature jewellery and silver he selected from this year’s Fair exhibitors having previously created campaigns for global luxury brands such as Prada, Philip Lim and Longchamp, among others. His films are highly acclaimed across the fashion world. Seductive silver Lin's finely crafted cinematic narrative provides the perfect modern complement to

Celestial Ring launched by W&W Jewellery

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

Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Awards 2019

The presentation of the annual Awards of the Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Awards took place at the prestigious Goldsmiths’ Hall in London on Monday 25 th  February 2019.  This important annual Awards Ceremony – known as the Jewellery Oscars – was hosted by Theo Fennell and welcomed over 300 guests, including world-renowned jewellery houses, notable sponsors, industry associations, leading designers and the UK jewellery press. This unique annual competition rewards excellence in technical skills and creative design in precious metals and related materials. The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council (GC&DC) which operates the competition, actively encourages established craftspersons and designers

New York Jewellery Week 2018

New York City Jewellery Week 10 - 18 November 2018 NYC Jewellery Week is NYC’s first and only week dedicated to promoting the world of jewellery through educational and innovative NYC focused programming. In its inaugural year, NYCJW will feature groundbreaking exhibitions, educational lectures, explorative workshops, exclusive tours, and unique collaborations with the best and brightest businesses, brands, individual jewellers, artists, and designers throughout NYC. Bella Neyman and JB Jones are the new heroines of the contemporary art jewellery movement. Unlike commercial fine jewellery or fashion costume Jewellery, One-of-a kind and limited production artist-made jewellery is a relatively new voice

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

SIERAAD 2018

SIERAAD a very special fair where artists from all over the world sell their jewellery directly and in person to shops, galleries and consumers SIERAAD Art Fair presents; unique, personally designed and crafted pieces of jewellery Here, the emphasis is on jewellery as pieces of art in which ideas are packaged in materials such as rubber, textile, photos, plastics, wood or ceramics, as well as silver and gold. Also on display will be traditional pieces of art produced by contemporary silver and goldsmiths. Artist-designers from all corners of the globe, including highly talented emerging designers from internationally acclaimed academies, will

Galactica - Jacqueline Cullen @ The Scottish Gallery

Galactica - Jacqueline Cullen The Scottish Gallery 29 June - 20 July 2019 It’s a coincidence that this month marks the 50th anniversary of David Bowie’s Space Oddity and the Apollo 11 Moon landing - there is a also a space theme in the beautiful Galactica jewellery collection by Jacqueline Cullen.  Her Whitby jet and black diamond jewellery is exquisite; offset by her work in grey agate.  It really is out of this world! Jacqueline Cullen creates wearable, sculptural jewellery in 18ct gold featuring materials such as Whitby jet, black diamonds and agate. With diverse inspiration ranging from thunderous skies to

Appointment: Michel Loris-Melikoff New Baselworld Managing Director

The longstanding Managing Director of Baselworld, Sylvie Ritter, has decided to step down from her position at the MCH Group. Michel Loris-Melikoff, who has until now held the position of Director of MCH Beaulieu Lausanne SA, will succeed her. Sylvie Ritter, Managing Director of Baselworld, has decided to hand over the management of the World Watch and Jewellery Show. " After 26 years with the MCH Group – 15 of which were as Managing Director of Baselworld – it's time for me to start something new and take on new challenges" , said Sylvie Ritter in explaining her decision. She

IIDGR, part of the De Beers Group of Companies to show at IJL

Whilst De Beers is known throughout the international jewellery community as a supplier of rough and cut diamonds, the IIDGR division specialises in supporting the industry through its educational programmes, supply of synthetic diamond detection equipment and laboratory-based diamond grading facilities. With offices in Maidenhead, Antwerp and Surat, IIDGR has greatly extended its reach into the UK market, and now enjoys close commercial ties with many leading UK jewellery organisations, manufacturers and jewellery retailers. “Our main aim is to support the UK industry with a comprehensive range of diamond focused retail-based education modules and leading-edge technology supported by world class

Karl Lagerfeld 1933 - 2019

This week, on Tuesday 19 February, saw the loss of fashion legend Karl Lagerfeld. He died in Paris, at the age of 85. With appearances scheduled in to oversee the Chanel Womenswear show on March 5 this year, he fulfilled his promise to never retire.  Known for his tireless work ethic, and unrivalled ability to stay one step ahead in the incredibly fast-paced world of fashion, Lagerfeld created collections for both Chanel and Fendi simultaneously, in addition to his own namesake label, which celebrated his iconic look. His collections were never just that, better described as ‘experiences’ or installations: “His

Gemfields reveal newly discovered ‘Inkalamu’ 5,655 carat emerald

Gemfields have revealed the discovery of ‘Inkalamu’, the Lion Emerald, a 5,655 carat Zambian emerald crystal with remarkable clarity and a perfectly balanced golden green hue which was uncovered early last month. Inkalamu was discovered at Kagem, the world’s largest emerald mine, which is 75% owned by Gemfields and 25% by the Industrial Development Corporation of Zambia (which belongs in turn to the Government of the Republic of Zambia). “The discovery of this exceptional gemstone is such an important moment both for us and for the emerald world in general” commented Elena Basaglia, Gemfields’ dynamic London-based gemmologist. “We are experiencing

Karl Lagerfeld 1933-2019

This week, on Tuesday 19 February, saw the loss of fashion legend Karl Lagerfeld. He died in Paris, at the age of 85. With appearances scheduled in to oversee the Chanel Womenswear show on March 5 this year, he fulfilled his promise to never retire.  Known for his tireless work ethic, and unrivalled ability to stay one step ahead in the incredibly fast-paced world of fashion, Lagerfeld created collections for both Chanel and Fendi simultaneously, in addition to his own namesake label, which celebrated his iconic look. His collections were never just that, better described as ‘experiences’ or installations: “His

The Spring Contemporary Craft Fair 2019

The Spring Contemporary Craft Fair 2 - 6 May 2019 RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey An amazing event at an amazing venue! This leading craft fair is held in floored marquees within the world class RHS Garden Wisley. Now in its 10th year, this has become the most popular contemporary craft event in the UK - an event not to be missed! Highlights this year include: Over 200 exhibitors Demonstrating artists Specialist food exhibitors Live music Festival of Silver Whilst visiting the contemporary craft fair don’t forget to head to the stunning Glasshouse to view a collection of work by some

Gem Empathy Award Returns for IJL 2018 with Dazzling Gemstone Prize

Gem-A’s Gem Empathy Award, which gives IJL 2018 exhibitors the chance to win a spectacular, fancy-cut gemstone by world-renowned cutter, John Dyer for a bespoke jewellery design returns for 2018. In a change to previous years, the long-standing Gem Empathy Award - organised by Gem-A and hosted by IJL – will welcome entries from the entire breadth of IJL 2018 exhibitors, not just Design Gallery exhibitors. All those who enter the competition, whether an established brand or emerging designer, will have the opportunity to win a sensational 18.28 carat ametrine gemstone from Bolivia, which has been hand-cut by master gem-cutter,

Week One New Designers Award Winners Announced

Bursting with ambition and radical ideas, New Designers 2019 unveils incredible new talent set to shape the design world of tomorrow. Over two weeks, and spanning every discipline in modern making, the event presents the work of more than 3,000 hand-picked design talents. Visitors to the show will discover disruptive new thinking, meet the pacesetters, and get a first look at our creative future. The New Designers Awards brings together 1,500 handpicked designers in areas including textiles, fashion and costume, ceramics, contemporary design craft, and jewellery. Awards are presented to those with the most creative and forward-thinking work. Winners are

Swarovski reboots new look Gem Visions for Spring Summer 2019

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

Stylish Aromatherapy at your fingertips

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

London-based online jewellery retailer, jewellerybox, partner with recycling app, reGAIN

Jewellerybox's partnership with recycling app reGAIN is set to benefit both their customers and the environment.  The online retailer, based in South-London, are all about crowd-pleasing.  Concieved in 2014, their  raison d'être is to bring customers real jewellery at costume prices. The staggering range of over 10,000 pieces, fashioned from sterling silver and 9ct gold, are available to customers in over 100 countries world-wide, offering same-day delivery to customers in London. The app, reGAIN, allows customers to recycle unwanted clothing in exchange for exclusive retailer discounts. By posting  a minimum of 10 clothing items, using a printable free-post label or

Into The Blue

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

Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council hosts sell out ‘In Conversation’ with Cartier event

The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council hosted its first ‘In Conversation’ event of 2018, a special evening led by jewellery specialist Joanna Hardy, in conversation with Cartier, the world’s highly esteemed and respected jewellery Maison. The evening provided a unique opportunity to hear from Neil Battes and Vincenzo Marsico working with Cartier in London about their world and work, and the GC&DC’s prized Jacques Cartier Memorial Award. With questions presented by Joanna Hardy, the conversation took a vibrant behind-the-scenes journey through Cartier’s prestigious design studio, workshops and retailing experience - the exemplar for quality and excellence in craftsmanship - to

Deborah Tseng releases monochrome 'White' collection

In a colourful world, this quiet white jewellery is a rare island for a peaceful mind. Deborah Tseng Jewellery combines two historical crafts to make porcelain jewellery with layers of beauty and meaning. Artist Deborah Tseng established her eponymous jewellery brand in London, after graduating from a masters degree in jewellery Silversmithing and related products from Birmingham City University School of Jewellery. However, prior to this Tseng lived and Taiwan, where she was trained extensively in metalwork.  Her diverse skillset and honed craftsmanship can be seen in her work. She finds her inspiration in repetition, transformation, time and the minutiae of the

Chaumet launch ‘Chaumet In The Sky’ app

To celebrate the launch of the Haute Joaillerie collection ‘Les Ciels de Chaumet’, the high jewellery house has unveiled ‘Chaumet In The Sky’, a mobile application available on iTunes. The app acts as a playful immersion of the celestial sphere, and helps the browser to discover constellations, planets and the jewelery creations of ‘Ciels de Chaumet’, stars among the stars. “Opal comets appear among the stars, diamond stars illuminate the blue of the night...” Developed in collaboration with Dr. Patrick Michel, world-renowned astrophysicist and CNRS researcher, the application ‘Chaumet In The Sky’ makes it possible, by orienting your phone towards

A One-Sided Look: Asymmetrical Earrings

If there's one way to turn heads this coming fall then an asymmetrical eardrobe will be your main squeeze in the accessories field. As the fashion runways for A/W 2017 begin to descend in new season glory, there was one look in particular that certainly got people talking: the world of mismatched earrings! We've all been there and experienced the crushing dismay when you look in the mirror at the end of the way only to find yourself somewhat mismatched with one earlobe very much naked and exposed. The days of when a favourite pair of sparkly droppers become a

Pantone Announce Colour of the Year – for 2018

Pantone, the world renowned authority on colour, has announced its colour of the year for 2018 - Ultra Violet. The Pantone Colour Institute, which forecasts global colour trends, describes the colour as: “A dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade, PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.” How this effects jewellery The announcement of the Colour of the Year is significant to the jewellery industry because the fashion industry and media in particular will be picking up on accessories and fashion elements which can incorporate the hottest trend for 2018. This provides

1 Year Contemporary Jewellery Course at City Lit with Elizabeth Bone

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

Gem-A Conference 2018

Gem-A (the Gemmological Association of Great Britain)  Conference 2018 County Hall, London 3 - 4 November 2018 World-Renowned Jewellery Artist, Wallace Chan, to Speak at Gem-A Conference 2018.The Hong Kong-based jewellery artist will showcase his innovations on the opening day of the Gem-A Conference in November. The Gem-A Conference 2018 will bring together the greatest minds in gemmology to celebrate 110 years of gemmology education. Alongside the opportunity to network with fellow gemmologists and leading experts in the field, guests will also have the chance to attend workshops, field trips and a very special celebratory dinner cruise aboard the Elizabethan: a replica

Fair Luxury calls for jewellers to join the fashion revolution, letting customers know who made their jewellery

It’s said we are the first generation that knows that we are killing the planet, and fast fashion has been amongst one of the biggest targets of criticism. This new era of awareness couldn’t be more apparent- with activist group Extinction Rebellion hosting rallies in cities over the world in the last few days.  At a time where sustainability accounts for a key fashion trend and internet searches for ‘sustainable fashion’ have almost doubled since last year; Fair Luxury looks to the jewellery industry, as a caveat of the fashion trade, to take action and show solidarity for planet Earth. Fashion

Initiation 2018

Initiation 2018 // Kallichoron Munich Jewellery Week 2018 A Jewellery, Narrative & Performance show to reflect the night of the sacred orgies.  The project INITIATION 2018 // KALLICHORON focuses on „ Body – Ritual - Narrativ e“ as a means to bridge jewellery with the sacred context of its origins and to find meaning in its future development.  For 2.000 years Eleusina, a farmers' community close to Athens, was the spiritual capital of the Greek-Roman world. The cult of Demeter and Persephone - Mother and Daughter – also know as "orgies" (work) celebrated the establishment of human settlements and agriculture,

Adorn Your Wrists With Taste & Style

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

Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council hold annual awards

The 'Jewellery Oscars', highlight of the Jewellery Industry's design, craft and manufacturing community's year, saw industry came together once again to celebrate the winners of the annual Goldsmiths Craft & Design Awards which took place again at Goldsmiths’ Hall in London last Monday. The culmination of a year's work for industry, where pieces worked upon and finished in the last twelve months are entered and shown at the prestigious awards event was hosted by Theo Fennell and welcomed over 300 guests, including world-renowned jewellery houses, notable sponsors, industry associations, leading designers and the UK jewellery press. The unique annual competition

Aw18 Global Collection launched by Annie Haak

Annie Haak takes inspiration from  "the wondrous world that we live in, through the diversity of all walks of life that we see on a daily basis"  in her newest collection for AW18 entitled 'Global Collection'. The fascinating shapes that are prominent throughout this varied collection reflect the ever-changing imprint of life that we as humans create. From spectacular geographical architecture which has been captured in the form of our stunning “Shard” pieces, to the new intricately detailed globe charm to symbolise the world  "as we strive to work together as one". The Global Collection includes a variety of styles

Made for the Table , The Harley Gallery

Made for the Table  Silver Service is Made for the Table The Harley Gallery 4 November 2017 – 7 January 2018 Made for the Table is a glittering new exhibition of contemporary silver from the world renowned Goldsmiths’ Company Silver Collection, showing at The Harley Gallery on the ducal Welbeck estate in Nottinghamshire from 4 November 2017 to 7 January 2018. A table is laid ready for a dinner party, beautifully presented with lustrous silver, fine ceramics and colourful glass. Visitors are invited into the exhibition dining room to see works from leading contemporary makers such as Michael Lloyd, Malcolm

International Fashion Showcase: Part of London Fashion Week 2019

International Fashion Showcase: Part of London Fashion Week Brave New Worlds: The changing landscape of fashion 11- 24 February 2019 Somerset House, London The International Fashion Showcase The International Fashion Showcase (IFS) nurtures and presents work from the most exciting fashion talent from around the world. Working in partnership, British Council, British Fashion Council, London College of Fashion and Somerset House provide a tailored programme for 16 emerging international designers, including a business development programme lead by London College of Fashion and a creative residency within Somerset House Studios in London. IFS will culminate with a free public exhibition during

Charlotte's Web Celebrates 10 Years Online

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

Spotlight Tour: International Fashion Showcase 2019

Spotlight Tour International Fashion Showcase: Part of London Fashion Week Brave New Worlds: The changing landscape of fashion 11- 24 February 2019 Somerset House, London An exhibition spotlight tour of the International Fashion Showcase 2019, with a chance to meet the IFS team and international designers. The  International Fashion Showcase  (IFS) nurtures and presents work from the best up-and-coming fashion talent from around the world. Join the British Council team for a spotlight tour of this year’s highlights and meet the designers. The tour will be led by Sarah Mann, Director of Architecture Design Fashion, British Council and Jessica Mansfield,

The V&A Exhibition Road Quarter Opens

The  V&A  Exhibition Road Quarter has opened to the public creating a beautiful and unique new civic space for London, and a world-class gallery space for the V&A’s internationally acclaimed exhibition programme. The project is designed by Stirling Prize-winning architect Amanda  Levete  and her practice, AL_A.    The launch of the  V&A  Exhibition Road Quarter marks the beginning of a new era for the Museum, as it prepares to expand its UK and international presence. The project is the Museum’s largest architectural intervention in over 100 years and offers a 21st Century interpretation of the V&A’s founding principles - to

Marzee International Graduate Shows of 2016 and 2017

Marzee International Graduate Shows of 2016 and 2017 The best young international jewelry designers, selected by Marzee Het Valkhof Museum in Nijmegen From November 3, 2017 to January 7, 2018, the Het Valkhof Museum in Nijmegen shows an overview of Marzee International Graduate Shows of 2016 and 2017.  Gallery Marzee is one of the most important international promoters of the contemporary jewelery . This international graduation exhibition offers a beautiful overview of work by young artists who have just graduated from the jewelery department of art academies and colleges from all parts of the world. The young artists come from

Gemfields Partner with National Geographic to Capture the Heart and Soul of Vital Projects in Africa

Gemfields, a world-leading supplier of responsibly sourced gemstones, has partnered with National Geographic to show the behind-the-scenes of Gemfields supported projects in Africa.   See the inner workings of Gemfields supported projects through the lens of National Geographic photogrpaher and film-maker, Shannon Wild. Shannon is at the heart of each film and viewers are given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the landscape, animals and people she encounters during the filming of the short-films. The first film, shot in Zambia's Kafue National Park, focuses on the Zambian Carnivore Programme (ZCP). The project is dedicated to the study and preservation on large carnivores.  The [youtube

Grant Macdonald creates 'Ruaha' for TUSK

World renowned silversmih Grant Macdonald has created a handcrafted sterling silver lion representation named 'Ruaha' to be sold in their Harrods showrooms, from which proceeds of sales will support the charity Tusk and lion conservation. Driven by the fact that lions may now number as few as twenty thousand in the wild, the team of designers and craftsmen at Grant Macdonald wanted to create a unique piece to raise awareness and funds to help to preserve this majestic animal. The sale of their unique sterling silver lion ‘Ruaha’ will provide a significant contribution to further the work of Tusk. The beautifully handcrafted

New GemfieldsxMuse collaboration brings responsibly sourced gemstones to the everyday consumer

This year, Gemfields, a world leading supplier of responsibly sourced gemstones, has once again teamed with MUSE, the fine jewellery industry’s premier showroom for emerging and established talent, to present a new collection of inspired jewellery with a focus on earrings.  With 23 contributing designers, it’s no surprise that the collection offers a vast array of designs, styles and gemstones. The current vogue for mixing, matching and multiples, the 65 pairs of earrings feature hoops, studs and chandeliers, all embellished with Gemfields Zambian emeralds and Mozambican rubies. The variety doesn’t just stop with design; the collection also encompasses a wide

Chills, Shrills & Thrills

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

Point of No Return with Christoph Zellweger at K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Point of No Return at K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery with Christoph Zellweger 4 ½ Day Workshop 14th – 17th August 2018 This workshop 'POINT OF NO RETURN' will be led by Swiss jewellery artist and designer Christoph Zellweger, who’s commitment to applied research as a visionary practitioner and experienced coach has gained international recognition. The workshop is aimed at professional colleagues from all parts of the world, as well as ambitious students and amateurs, who wish to progress their work and to give direction to their practice. Point of No Return Get going, get started, carry on, stretch far, move forward, retreat,

Eileen Gatt Transforms Former Black Isle Post Office Into Ethical Jewellery Centre

The small village of Munlochy, on the Black Isle, is set to be at the forefront of Scotland’s drive to become a world leader in ethical jewellery making and silversmithing. Eileen Gatt has recently given up her Edinburgh studio in order to transform the former post office, a few miles from Inverness, into a centre for ethical making and design. It’ll be a lengthy task, but thanks to a £4,000 bursary from the Incorporation of Goldsmiths of Edinburgh, plus £11,000 from Creative Scotland and £30,000 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), it’s a project she thinks has a bright future.

Nailing The Crystal Look In Geode Goodness

With the runways awash with the footsteps of hundreds of models in new season thigh high boots, houndstooth print seen left right and centre and bold granny chic adornments dangly from polished and preened earlobes, fashion week has once again descended upon our calendars! Last fall the jewellery and beauty worlds came together in all their tantalising trends to bring us spellbinding galaxy nail art and geode lips. Makeup artists have made it easier for you to take your covetable crystal collection everywhere with you by drawing inspiration from the world's prettiest gemstones and turning it into gorgeous geode nail

Class of 2017: Structural Composition & One Year On

Class of 2017: Structural Composition & One Year On To launch 2018, NCCD is proud to present two exhibitions showcasing work by artists who we’re tipping to be the future stars of the craft & design world in our new exhibitions Class Of 2017: Structural Composition and One Year On. Each year our Class Of series of exhibitions highlights the work of a number of new graduates chosen from the New Designers event which takes place in London. At New Designers the finest graduating students from art and design courses from across the UK are chosen to exhibit their work,

'Jewellery Oscars' Announced: Goldsmiths’ Crafts & Design Awards 2017

The presentation of the annual awards of the Goldsmiths Craft & Design took place at Goldsmiths Hall in London on 27 February 2017.    This important annual Awards Ceremony - known in the trade as the Jewellery Oscars - was hosted by international jewellery expert, Joanna Hardy, and welcomed over 300 guests, including world renowned jewellery houses, notable sponsors, industry associations, leading designers and the UK jewellery press. This unique annual competition rewards excellence in technical skills and creative design in precious metals and related materials. The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council, which operates the competition, actively encourages craftsmen and

New Designers 2017 - Part II

New Designers 2017 The exhibition for emerging design New Designers presents an unmissable opportunity to buy new products for your store or home, get inspired by fresh ideas and discover new design talent to commission or recruit. Every year over 3,000 of the most promising graduate talents from Britain’s leading design courses exhibit. The show features everything from illustration to animation, furniture to fashion, and gaming to glass and takes place at the spectacular Business Design Centre in London, the world's capital of design.  It provokes fresh thinking and kick-starts careers, providing a pipeline of young talent into the UK’s fastest growing

Laser Specialist Tom Rucker Wins Gold

Tom Rucker was awarded five Gold Awards at the Goldsmiths’ Craftsmanship and Design Awards 2017 this week, at Goldsmiths’ Hall, for his latest piece, the ‘GEO.NIOT' Brooch. The GEO.NIOT Brooch features a bright blue platinum that Tom invented and developed over many months and is a world first. The brooch is made using his cutting edge laser technique and decorated with pure white diamonds. Awards: Gold - The Goldsmiths’ Company Award 2017 Gold - The Boodles Award 2017 Gold - 3D Design Technological Innovation Award 2017 Gold - The Brown & Newirth Jewellers’ Award Gold - The Senior Award 2017

The Unspoken Beauty of Moissanite

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

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

Imogen Belfield: Creating Rockesque Jewellery Sculptures

Imogen Belfield’s unique jewellery sculptures range from cascading golden nugget pendants to statement “rockesque” rings. Her textural and organic designs are instantly recognisable and one‐of-a-kind as we bumped into her at London Fashion Week. Tipped by Vogue as one to watch, Belfield was also named by Vogue Italia as one if its " Vogue Talents". Since breaking into the world of fashion and jewellery in 2010, Belfield's covetable pieces have won the attention from a plethora of celebrities, including, Georgia May Jagger, Uma Thurman, Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Nicole Scherzinger and Rita Ora. Belfield’s jewellery was also specially chosen for Cameron

Champagne Showers in Race Day Jewels

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

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

Drop It Down Low & Swing Into Spring

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

Hypnotic Crystal Lips: Where Jewellery Meets Beauty

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

Gemstones Set The Tone: GFG Jewellery by Nilufe

GFG Jewellery by Nilufer is a London-based British contemporary fine jewellery brand established by founder, Nilufer Kizilkaya.  With a vision to encapsulate timeless beauty, Nilufer set about creating collections that are easily wearable from day to night with a vision to form a part of a woman’s daily outfit ritual. The aesthetics of the collections are created with love and passion, inspired by the beauty of our surroundings. Each piece is created using precious metals, handset and polished while gemstones, diamonds and pearls are sourced around the world and cut to bespoke specifications for the brand. GFG Jewellery by Nilufer,

Micro-Setting Masterclass - The Goldsmiths' Centre

Alexander Sidorov’s Advanced Micro-Setting Masterclass In 2015 the Goldsmiths’ Centre launched London’s first dedicated training workshop for micro-setting and engraving having entered into partnership with Optical Diamond Setter and SEO of the world-renowned Antwerp based Alexandre School, Alexander Sidorov. Alexander Sidorov will be offering a five day intensive practical course at the Goldsmiths’ Centre for experienced jewellers or stone setters from 13 to 17 February 2017.  Micro-setting enables practitioners, with the aid of powerful microscopes, to arrange diamonds and precious stones cleanly and seamlessly across a surface. This short course is for a limited group size of up to 6

New Designers 2017 Events Programme Announced

An opening speech by  British ceramicist   Keith  Brymer  Jones and  Design   Reels ,  the  new digital catwalk and screening area are just two of the event highlights at New Designers, the UK’s leading exhibition for emerging design, announced today. The inspiring programme of public talks, tours and awards has been revealed as over 3,000 graduates and 80 emerging designers finalise their presentations for the show – sharing their making processes, inspiration and a glimpse of their final pieces on social media with the hashtag  # comingtoND .     A leading figure from the world of design will

Ruth Hollywood launches new lines at London Design Festival

Ruth Hollywood makes jewellery inspired by natural geometry. Synthesising 100% recycled silver and colourful hand-mixed resin, her work moves over the boundaries between science, nature and art. Ruth has received awards for Excellence in Design from The Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths, and was selected for the Crafts Council UK Hothouse programme in 2015. Her jewellery is stocked in a variety of shops and galleries across the world. She exhibits at trade shows regularly, and her work has been shown in London, Munich, Montreal and Sydney. The perfect microscopic patterns of atoms and crystals have found their way into Ruth’s newest

Trash & Treasures, Gallery Weekend Berlin 2017

There are a lot of exciting exhibitions in Berlin around the Gallery Weekend and we will also join the joyful hustle and bustle. The spirit of subversion is a never ending commodity of Berlin’s art world. With this in mind, the exhibition “Trash & Treasures” shows two worlds colliding: The “high” and the “low” of artistic jewellery creation, which par excellence represents power, wealth and status. Why hurry over beautiful things? Why not linger and enjoy them? Clara Schumann Trash & Treasures Date 27th of April 2017 Time 6pm Venue Clemens Ritter von Wagner, Wagner Preziosen, Mommsenstraße 4, 10629 Berlin

WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017

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

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

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

Forward Ladies Women in Business Awards 2016: Harriet Kelsall wins ‘Retail Businesswoman’ award

British jewellery designer Harriet Kelsall has won the ‘Retail Businesswoman’ award at the London regional finals of the Forward Ladies Women in Business Awards 2016. The regional heat took place on Friday at a celebration lunch at an exclusive London hotel, before an audience of senior and influential business leaders. Harriet Kelsall is one of the most respected bespoke jewellery designers and business trailblazers working in the UK jewellery industry today. She founded her business – Harriet Kelsall Bespoke Jewellery - in 1998 and it is now recognised in the UK and across the world as a market leader in

Felieke van der Leest: Once Upon A Time In My West

Felieke van der Leest: Once Upon A Time In My West A showcase from the celebrated Dutch jeweller Felieke van der Leest. This exhibition celebrates the fantastical world of fairy tales and the Wild West. Felieke van der Leest is a trained metalsmith, graduating from the jewellery department at the Rietveld Academie (The Netherlands) in 1996. She has lived and worked in Øystese, Norway since 2008. Living close to a Zoo, her passion for animals probably started in her childhood just like her love for crocheting in textiles. Combining this with precious metals and plastic toy animals, she developed her

London Diamond Bourse Joins Responsible Jewellery Council

London Diamond Bourse (LDB) is pleased to announce it is a member of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC). LDB is the first Bourse in the world to join the well-known standards and certification organisation. LDB’s Council of Management unanimously voted to apply to join the RJC and will now undertake an independent audit to achieve full RJC Certification.  Victoria McKay, COO commented “LDB has been committed to best business practice for over 75 years. We will now work to achieve independently audited certified status to prove that we are committed to supporting industry transparency and look forward to demonstrating LDB’s

Clogau Announce New Store At Ashford Designer Outlet

Following the success of their Outlet stores in Cheshire Oaks, Bridgend and Resorts World Birmingham, Clogau have announced the launch of a fourth Outlet in Ashford, Kent. Clogau, who were crowned Jewellery Brand of the Year at the 2015 UK Jewellery Awards, are thrilled to have launched their third Outlet store within the McArthurGlen Group. The iconic Welsh brand continue a long tradition of creating jewellery that is expertly hand-finished and uniquely designed. Every piece of Clogau jewellery contains rare Welsh gold, as used by some members of the British Royal Family. Ben Roberts, Managing Director at Clogau talks about the

Bex Rox London: Colouring Life Through An Embellished Journey

Renowned for its magnetic fastenings, innovative designs and easily recognised by it’s textural, confident and colourful pieces with an edge; Bex Rox is a British luxury costume jewellery brand based in the heart of Notting Hill. Bex Rox was founded in 2009, launching exclusively in Browns in London. Today, Bex Rox is sold online, through private experiential trunk shows, through luxury department stores and to select concept multi-brand boutiques across the world.  With a sense of humour that weaves throughout the collections, Bex Rox is bold, alive and dynamic. From the detailed designs to the weight and fit of each piece,

Kashka: New fashion led ethical brand launches

KASHKA will be hitting the jewellery market in 2017 as a brand new fashion-led jewellery brand. Holding the core belief that jewellery can and should be ethical, inspirational, thought-provoking and meaningful, the brand wants to be an ode to everyday yet sophisticated jewellery for the modern woman and child.   With a burning desire to do something that would give her reason to get up everyday, designer  Naqiyah Sultan focused her interests upon the topic of world change; staying true to herself, morals and integrity. Travelling across several continents until finally making London her home, she describes how her story

Signet Jewelers Confirmed for 4 Consecutive Years as “Conflict Free”

Signet Jewelers Limited, the world's largest retailer of diamond jewellery, recently submitted its fourth consecutive Conflict Minerals Report to the SEC in accordance with Section 1502 of the Dodd-Frank Act.  Signet was one of only four companies to have its Gold “Conflict-Free” filing with the SEC independently audited in line with the Section 1502 requirements in 2014, 2015 and 2016. Now Signet has extended its “Conflict-Free” reporting under Section 1502 for a fourth consecutive year. Signet believes that a responsible, conflict-free supply chain is fundamental to the reputation of the jewellery industry. Signet is, therefore, committed to continuing our longstanding

Ana Thompson Fine Jewellery Launches Macrocosmic Collection

Colombian born jewellery designer Ana Thompson will launch her new jewellery collections; Sedna and Vortex at the international trade show Inhorgenta this February. Her new collections Sedna and Vortex, consisting of a range of rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets, are an exploration into the unseen macrocosmic natural world. They take the wearer on a fascinating journey through the universe, resulting in everlasting collections, which encapsulate fluid movement and represent endless time. Provocatively Ana's designs combine stylized form and structure typical of sculpture with the movement and energy inherent in more organic natural forms.  This combination disrupts the cold austerity of

The Blancpain Ocean Commitment Global Concept

Blancpain’s commitment to the underwater world took on a new dimension in 2014 with  ocean exploration and preservation under the label 'Blancpain Ocean Commitment', as well as with the launch of the first series of Ocean Commitment limited edition watches. Today, three years, ten expeditions and four million square kilometers of protected ocean later, Blancpain reconfirms its commitment with the recently launched all-blue limited edition.  Driven by a resolutely pioneering spirit since its founding in 1735, the Manufacture Blancpain has enjoyed historical links with diving for more than 60 years, more precisely since the 1953 launch of the Fifty Fathoms

Red Dot Award: Best Product Designs 2017 Announced

Manufacturers and designers from 54 countries entered their current product innovations in the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2017. 39 experts from all over the world convened in Essen to assess each individual object live and in situ in a process spanning several days. Only designs that won over the jury with their high design quality were awarded the sought-after Red Dot. The distinctive winners’ label will decorate the best products of the year with immediate effect. In the areas of bathrooms and personal care, consumer electronics, kitchen appliances and furniture, design as a distinctive feature is playing an ever-increasing role.

British Fashion Council & Google Arts Celebrate The Creativity of British Fashion

A collaboration between the British Fashion Council and Google will bring to life the creativity, heritage and craftsmanship of British fashion. A new digital educational platform featuring content and stories from top British designers and fashion insiders has been created for anyone around the world to enjoy, for free. The project will support the BFC’s Education Foundation and aims to attract future talent into the industry. The platform g.co/britishfashion will provide a single destination to educate and inspire future generations of young fashion creatives, designers and students.  To celebrate its rich history and create new experiences around British fashion, the

Munich Jewellery Week 2017

Munich Jewellery Week is an independent initiative that supports, communicates and promotes citywide jewellery exhibitions taking place during the week of the annual Handwerk & Design expo, and its historic jewellery exhibitions: Meister der Moderne, Schmuck and Talente. From March 8th till March 14th Munich Jewellery Week will showcase avant-garde contemporary jewellery by established and up-and-coming designers from all over the world. This yearly gathering is by far the most significant event on contemporary jewellery’s calendar; it’s a unique phenomenon which plays a pacemaking role in the contemporary jewellery field. Hundreds of makers, students, educators and collectors come from all

Schmuck 2017

Like every year in March the Handwerkskammer für München und Oberbayern presents the special exhibition SCHMUCK at the International Trade Fair in Munich (IHM). It is the most popular exhibition about contemporary jewellery and is well known all over the world. Since 1959 SCHMUCK is considered to be the most important exhibition concerning jewellery. This year the juror for Schmuck was Cornelie Holzach.  Her statement will be published in the catalogue Schmuck 2017.  Dates 8th - 14th March 2017 Venue International Trade Fair Munich , Hall B1 "Handwerk & Design" Exhibitors 2017 List of Participants 2017 PDF Event Programme 2017 Programme

RIBA North to House Design Led Shop at New National Architectural Centre

A store for architecture and design enthusiasts will be included at RIBA North, the new national architectural centre set to open in Liverpool on 17 June. At the heart of the new retail destination will be a section curated by stylist Katie Patrick, displaying innovative designs from UK artists, makers and craftspeople from the North. This feeds into RIBA’s mission to promote creativity and enables people to own world-class, regionally produced designs for themselves. The curated section features a diverse range of products including home and fashion accessories whilst the rest of the shop will also sell stationary, books and

Atelier Romy: Online Only Fine Jewellery Atelier

From a London goldsmith’s workbench a vision developed  for the creation of a new online only fine jewellery brand, offering the combined 20 year experience of two founders jewellery  elegance for the everyday working woman Atelier Romy is underpinned by Sabine Roemer and Hermione Underwood’s vision to develop beautiful pieces manufactured with world class craftsmanship. Created by women for women, Atelier Romy intends to transcend seamlessly across occasions and time zones whilst complementing the wearer’s individual style. With over 20 years experience in the jewellery industry, the founders feel that consumers deserve a brand that focuses on transparency, integrity and

Harriet Kelsall Awarded HSBC 'Retail Businesswoman of the Year'

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

Graduate Show School of Jewellery Birmingham 2017

Silicone to Silver: Jewellery like you’ve never seen before! Final year students at the world famous School of Jewellery will be unveiling their collections for the first time at the Graduate Show this June. The show launches on Monday 12th June through till Saturday 17th June, with an Industry evening on Tuesday, 13th June from 5:30. With over 50 graduates exhibiting their unique collections there is most certainly something for everyone. Examples of this variety include kinetic elements, are 3D printed, involve unusual and tactile materials and even include hand cultivated crystals and homemade eco-resin. The aesthetic ranges from fun

British Fashion Council Releases #LONDONISOPEN Video

London is a fashion, business and cultural capital and is open for business. The British Fashion Council is supporting Mayor Sadiq Khan’s #LondonIsOpen campaign by releasing this exclusive film. [http://youtu.be/ebXs4Wnb2ds] Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said, “London Fashion Week begins today, showing that London is open to the world and is an international leader of creativity and entrepreneurship. There’s a fantastic range of designers and talent on the schedule this season, highlighting the very best the industry has to offer – from big brands to independent retailers, the London fashion scene has never been more diverse. The fashion

Artist Marks 100 Years of Mesopotamian Warfare

The  modern day  struggles for Baghdad and Mosul have been vast and blo ody – a Spring Fling sculptor  highlights  a  forgotten  conflict  in this region,  exactly  100 years ago.   Ghostly sculptures  highlight  how modern-day b attles  for  Mosul and Baghdad carry echoes of a clash of empires in the First World War.  Recent commemorations of the Great War have often focused on the Western Front, but Mark Gibbs wants us to remember that it was a truly global conflict. In 1917 the struggle for Mesopotamia, which takes in parts of modern Iraq and Syria, was reaching a crescendo as

Gemfields confirmed as sponsors of the 2016 Gem-A Conference and Graduation Ceremony

Gem-A (The Gemmological Association of Great Britain) has announced that leading supplier of responsibly sourced coloured gemstones, Gemfields, has signed up as Silver Sponsor of the Gem-A Conference and as exclusive Ruby Sponsor of Gem-A’s annual Graduation Ceremony and Presentation of Awards — a prestigious new sponsorship package created exclusively for the London-based company.  Gemfields, who also own Fabergé, is one of the world’s largest producers of coloured gemstones including emeralds and amethysts from Zambia and rubies from Mozambique. The company delivers a constant supply of professionally-graded, uncut coloured gemstones to world markets via their highly acclaimed auction platform, as

Contemporary British Silversmiths & Danish Guests at the V&A

Contemporary British Silversmiths & Danish Guests at the V&A In partnership with London Craft Week, the V&A, the Danish Silversmiths and Georg Jensen, supported by the Goldsmiths' Company Throughout London Craft Week, Contemporary British Silversmiths, the UK’s leading association for designer silversmiths will be demonstrating the craft of silversmithing to the public, in the prestigious and world renowned surroundings of the V&A’s Silver Galleries. LCW LogoParticipating alongside will be special guests from the Danish Silversmiths’ Association (Danske Sølvsmede), an exciting group set up in 1976 to renew and transform the craft of silversmithing. Denmark and Britain both have a very

Top Drawer S/S – Olympia, London

Journey into Top Drawer S/S17 to explore our expertly curated selection of global brands and innovative new names. Top Drawer is your perfect guide to a careful selection of UK and international lifestyle brands showing he very best, most original and commercially appealing designs across Home, Gift, Fashion and Craft. With more exclusive world launches than ever, an expanded Food Emporium and great new talent to discover in Spotted, your quest for new design-led products starts right here. Rigorous about selection, Top Drawer presents an expert edit of the newest, most exciting products from high quality companies passionate about design

Watches: Maradona Presents Pope with Big Bang Unico United for Peace Offering

The watch will be auctioned to support victims of the recent earthquakes;  The Pope, Hublot & Football: Joining Forces For Peace.  Following on from the Match of Friendship, which it organised in Paris this June, Hublot has assembled thirty stars and legends of world football to take part in the Match for Peace, at the invitation of the Pope. To mark this event, Diego Maradona presented the Pope with a Big Bang Unico United for Peace. This one-off piece, which has a certificate of authenticity signed by the Supreme Pontiff, will be auctioned to raise funds for the Pope's Scholas

Masterpiece London Highlights 2016

At the height of the international summer arts season over 150 of the world's top exhibitors joined us at Masterpiece London to show works that span 5,000 years of art history, furniture, jewellery and design; from antiquity to the present day. In association with Principal Sponsor Royal Bank of Canada, the fair drew close to 40,000 visitors for an exceptional week of cultural, culinary and social experiences in the heart of London. Relive the fair with the highlights video here and hear from the 2016 exhibitors as to why in their opinion Masterpiece has established itself as the leading international

RHS Wisley 2017

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

Baselworld 2017 Launches with Press Conference

The 100th Edition of the one unmissable trendsetting show that unites key players from all sectors of the global watch and jewellery industry and sets the tone for the coming year, Baselworld 2017, commenced this week with its inaugural press conference. As every year, the eagerly awaited start of a new edition of the most unique annual event for the entire industry was witnessed by the most important international press representatives from print, television and digital media and by many thousands around the world who followed the press conference via the livestream. Mr René Kamm, CEO of the MCH Group,

Barbara Cartlidge (1922 - 2017)

Barbara Cartlidge, jewellery designer and Founder of the world famous Electrum Gallery has passed away aged 94 on 27 February 2017.  Renowned for her influential creativity and leadership in promoting contemporary art and studio based jewellery, Barbara Cartlidge will forever be hailed for her creative passion, knowledge, and as a driving force within the jewellery industry. Born in 1922 in Berlin, Germany, she later fled to London due to the war in 1938. Barbara went on to study jewellery design at London's renowned Central School of Arts and Crafts which resulted in a solo exhibition hosted by Heal's in 1960.

Indulge In Some Detail Therapy

In a fashion frenzied world where velour juicy tracksuits are becoming the new LBD and rubber crocs are suddenly the seasonal It shoe, the easiest way to stand out in the crowd is simply through your dramatic adornments! With high-street fashion positively blooming with Springtime must-haves and our bank accounts starting to recharge back to health after the festive blowouts, we risk looking like trend-heavy clones of each other. Here at Benchpeg we fervently believe that to inject a sense of individual flair and pizzaz it comes down to one little game changer: It's all in the detail. An easy,

Scott Armstrong wins CSM Chaumet Design Competition

BA Jewellery Design student Scott Armstrong was announced as the winner of the Central Saint  Martins  BA and MA Jewellery Design student competition to design a new headpiece for the world renowned jewellery house  Chaumet . Several weeks ago Scott Armstrong, a third year BA Jewellery Design student, travelled to Beijing’s Forbidden City with  Chaumet  to launch his  Vertiges  tiara following on from a design project.  The design is the result of the challenge  Chaumet  set for students of BA Jewellery Design and MA Design (Jewellery) to reinvent the tiara for the 21 st   century.   “It’s still the ultimate object,”

Shine On Bright Beauty

Winter is dipping her wet and nippy toes into the weather pool of October leaving us reaching for those chunky rib jumpers reminiscent of poncho tents and playing safe with the cheerful colour of black as a staple colour palette. The emerging countdown to all things mistletoe mischief and tinsel-town fun gives us the perfect excuse to pop a drop of sparkle and sass into our solemn moods and matching wardrobe. Time to set your hungry eyes upon some majestical prey of adornments like the ruthless sparkle magpies the Jewellery world! Statement sparkle doesn't have to resort to gaudy coloured

Grayton Set To Launch The Origin Mechanical Smart Watch

Grayton introduces the Origin Mechanical watch: a classic self-winding timepiece with open-heart design plus a smart strap for activity tracking, phone notifications, music control and more.  Taking almost 2 years to design Origin, a classic mechanical watch that features an interchangeable slim strap and embedded electronics, the Origin by Grayton has been born!. for Keep watch for the innovative fitness and intelligence to timekeeping with this revolutionary new addition to the watch industry - The Origin encapsulates when the modern tech world meets traditional watchmaking in pure style. Technology evolves but style is timeless As boutique watch makers, Grayton understands that there

Bernhard Schobinger: After Nature

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

Daphne Krinos Wins Ambassador Diamond Necklace Commission

The Goldsmiths’ Company has announced that artist jeweller  Daphne  Krinos  has won the  Ambassador Diamond Necklace Competition. The result of this exciting competition will be a unique diamond-set necklace for the Company’s Contemporary Jewellery Collection, with financial contribution from Boodles.   This commission echoes the 1961 British Jewellery De Beers Competition brief; to stimulate advanced British jewellery design while focusing on the design and creation of a very ‘current’ piece of jewellery. As such, the Ambassador Diamond Necklace design radiates individual creativity, spontaneity, exemplary craftsmanship, and utterly belongs to 2017 in the world of studio jewellery. Eight elite studio jewellers -

Folli Follie Partner with Photoslurp

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

Spring Fling 2017

Spring Fling is a vibrant visual art and craft open studios event covering the length and breadth of Dumfries and Galloway in South West Scotland; it is highly regarded as one of the UK’s most successful contemporary visual art and craft events.    In Autumn 2015 Spring Fling CIC evolved to become  Upland CIC , a bold, ambitious, world-class rural based visual art and craft development organisation. Spring Fling is Upland's Flagship Event. Dumfries and Galloway; inspiring, vibrant and buzzing with creativity is a well recognised as a haven for artists and makers and Spring Fling has helped put the region on the national

A Hint of Pink to Make Them Wink

Take a peek at the Spring fling Benchpeg lookbook and prepare to reign supreme in all things darling pink! Now it wouldn't be the fashion world if it didn't use the dismal first months of the year to tamper and tease our tastebud trends with a glimpse of Spring time fashion delights.  The blushing shade of romance struck the catwalks in dazzling delights and has laced her charm into the jewellery cupboards of many buzzing designers. Bid farewell to the dark and gloomy days of winter depression and skip into the bright lights of Spring with the covetable tint of

Southampton Students Get Fashion Fantastic with Plastic

An exciting project with DOW, one of the world leaders in the plastic market, will see a selection of Southampton Solent University students get the chance to showcase their work at a leading event in Dusseldorf this October. Under the theme ‘FaceOfInnovation’, which will focus on showcasing trends and innovation in the plastic industry; a number of students have been challenged to think outside of the box and create stylish, wearable fashion garments by reusing plastic materials. Southampton Solent University spoke with Charlotte and Lily, both now in their final academic year, studying Make-up and Hair and Design, to hear

IJL Announces Bright Young Gems 2016

IJL has announced the five Bright Young Gems selected to show at this year’s event. Now in its eleventh year, this initiative is recognised by the industry as one of the leading commercial opportunities for emerging designers, providing these talented young designers with an outstanding commercial platform and excellent exposure. These emerging stars of the contemporary jewellery world are selected from final year students at colleges and universities across the UK by a prestigious panel – comprising Hilary Alexander, OBE: Editor at Large Hello! Fashion Monthly Magazine, Vivienne Becker: jewellery historian and Contributing Editor to the Financial Times - How

Johnson Matthey PLC: 200 Years Of Inspiring Science and Sustained Innovation

Johnson Matthey, one of the longest-trading businesses in the FTSE 100 I ndex, celebrates its 200th  birthday this year. Now a global leader in science and te chnology  that makes the world cleaner and  healthier, the company was founded in London by Percival Norton  Johns on  in 1817 as a gold assaying  business. In the same year, the first bicycle was built, the sta tes  of Mississippi and Alabama were  created and the fifth President of the United States was  swor n in. In the UK, George III was King,  Lord Liverpool was Prime Minister, the first Waterloo Bridge was 

New Designers 2017

New Designers 2017 The exhibition for emerging design New Designers presents an unmissable opportunity to buy new products for your store or home, get inspired by fresh ideas and discover new design talent to commission or recruit. Every year over 3,000 of the most promising graduate talents from Britain’s leading design courses exhibit. The show features everything from illustration to animation, furniture to fashion, and gaming to glass and takes place at the spectacular Business Design Centre in London, the world's capital of design.  It provokes fresh thinking and kick-starts careers, providing a pipeline of young talent into the UK’s fastest growing

Silent Protest: Jewellery & Activism Exhibition @ Goldsmiths' Fair

Silent Protest: Jewellery & Activism Exhibition @ Goldsmiths' Fair Week One: 26 September to 1 October |  Week Two: 3 October to 8 October 2023 Goldsmiths Fair, Goldsmiths' Hall This exhibition not only showcases a multitude of internationally recognised and renowned, design-led political messaging, it also illustrates how jewellery with meaning is never ‘alternative’ curated by  Dr Mahtab Hanna. Exhibits on show by artists such as: Dr Mahtab Hanna, UK, Farish Alborzkouh, Iran, Boris Bally, USA, Karin Paynter, UK, Ai Wei Wei, China, Mah Rana, UK, Ruudt Peters, Netherlands, Lin Cheung, UK, Ted Noten, Netherlands, BYCHARI USA In the world today

Scoop 2025

Scoop 9 - 11 February 2025 Olympia West, 12 Blythe Road, W140JQ  The UK's leading contemporary fashion and lifestyle show The only date you need Step into a curated world filled with visionary creators and tastemakers at Scoop International, Europe’s most innovative fashion event. Uncover over 200 designer labels in a beautiful space designed to make the buying process seamless. Scoop is now recognised as a must-see on the international trade show circuit, with many exhibitors choosing Scoop as their only trade platform. It's not to be missed... Venue Olympia West, 12 Blythe Road, London W140JQ  Dates Sunday 9th Feb: 9.30am – 6pm

Jewellery, Gem & Technology in Dubai (JGTD) 2024 gathers momentum with debut of new country pavilions

Primed and ready to achieve new milestones in its new home this November,  Jewellery, Gem & Technology in Dubai (JGTD)   is further gaining momentum with 10+ exhibit zones, including four new country pavilions, showcasing quality suppliers from around the world, trade fair organisers Informa Markets Jewellery and Italian Exhibition Group SpA (IEG) announced today.  The B2B fair will take place in its new venue – Halls 1 & 2 South of the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) in Expo City – from 12 – 14 November. Notably, JGTD will be held against the backdrop of Dubai Diamond Week set for 11 –

FORGE London Craft Week events!

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

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

Ethical Gem Fair Tucson 2025

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

ACID Turns 25 – Ai And Intellectual Property Minister Joins Recent Celebrations In The City Of London

A galaxy of “IP and design heavyweights” including the IP Minister, Creative Industries Co Chair, Sir Peter Bazalgette, Design Council CEO and iconic designer, Professor Sebastian Conran joined ACID recently to celebrate reaching twenty-five years since the organisation was founded.   At a landmark event formally celebrating Anti Copying in Design’s (ACID) twenty-five years since it was founded, many from the world of IP and design were present to welcome the Minister for Intellectual Property and AI, Viscount Camrose, Creative Industries Co-Chair, Sir Peter Bazalgette, Iconic designer Sebastian Conran, Design Council CEO Minnie Moll and ACID’s Chief Counsel Nick Kounoupias, who

Huge Turnout for the 2024 Goldsmiths' Craft & Design Council Awards Ceremony

The Jacques Cartier Memorial Award and 50 other awards were presented at the 2024 Goldsmiths’ Craftsmanship & Design Awards including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 'Jewellery Oscars' held on Monday. Held at Goldsmiths’ Hall in London on Monday 4th March 2024, the annual Awards Ceremony, otehrwise known as the 'Jewellery Oscars' was opened by the Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council’s chair Anne-Marie Reeves, and hosted by Council Trustees Maeve Gillies and Judith Lockwood, who revealed this year’s award winners. The event welcomed 300 guests, including representatives from world renowned jewellery houses, notable sponsors, industry associations, leading designers, and the UK

ten Hompel completes National Museums Scotland’s Glenmorangie Commission

Since 2018, Simone ten Hompel has been taking a journey into the world of National Museums Scotland, its artefacts, and the research that is being currently conducted as part of the Glenmorangie Fellowship into the 9th to 12th centuries, an era of rapid change, political instability and cultural diversity, out of which the Scottish nation was born.  [youtube url=http://youtu.be/w22ppGiynms] The final blog by Sarah Rothwell, Curator, Modern & Contemporary Design can be read here: blog.nms.ac.uk The resulting artwork,  coordinate  explores Scotland’s journey through time – its changing landscape and the continual rediscovery of its past. It represents an abstracted interpretation of Scotland’s landmass, one [youtube

A demi-fine day for jewellery

The sky-high price of gold is giving rise to an exciting new 'demi-fine' market sector prompting big name brands in the UK and around the world to invest heavily in its growth for 2018. London department store Selfridges has become the latest retailer to get behind this new category,  investing 'significantly' in an expanded mid-range Spring Summer 2018 collection featuring among others Missoma, Charlotte Chesnais and Astley Clarke. Net-a-Porter has been doing demi-fine for a while and reports a 250% growth in demi-fine brands on their website while Pandora launched a new affordable collection for Spring Summer 2018 named ‘Shine’

‘Rationed’ Solo Show - Jo Pond

‘Rationed’ a solo exhibition by jewellery artist Jo Pond Vittoria Street Gallery presents  Following on from the success of her inaugural solo exhibition ‘Intimate’ which toured to Velvet da Vinci (San Francisco), Atta Gallery (Bangkok) and Contemporary Applied Arts (London), we are delighted to host a new collection of works titled ‘Rationed’ by internationally-renowned jewellery artist, Jo Pond. Stirred by a collection of diaries, bequeathed alongside hand-me-down stories, words and trinkets from a generation before, Jo Pond draws on evocative World War 2 artefacts to craft her own heirlooms. Almost in spite of itself, each static and inanimate object comes to

Gem-A Open Evening Event 2018

Gem-A Open Evening Event 2018 Gem-A welcome prospective students to first 2018 Open Evening event Gem-A is pleased to announce its first Open Evening of 2018, giving prospective students the chance to explore its historic London teaching centre. Tour our facilities, meet our tutors and learn something new. Have you always wanted to learn about gemmology but weren’t sure where to start? Gem-A are the oldest gem and jewellery educators in the world. We are based in London’s historic jewellery quarter and in January we are opening our doors for you to come along, meet the team and try some gemmology for yourself. Visitors are invited to attend

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,

Watch loving boxer Floyd Mayweather adds to his sumptuous collection

Less than two months after forking out almost £14 million for a unique Jacob Arabo watch, the world's wealthiest sportsman and prolific watch lover Floyd Mayweather has made another couple of extravagant purchases to add to his diamond-encrusted custom collection. In June, the boxing champion who last year reportedly earned around £230 million from a short 36 minute fight against another well known watch lover Conor McGregor, snapped up the now famous Billionaire Timepiece, featuring 260 carats of emerald cut diamonds. Previously sponsored by Hublot, Mayweather, 41, whose nickname is 'Money' , has long been a fan of luxury bling

Karolina Baines: Beauty in Interaction

Not only goldsmith tradition characterizes Karolina Baines’s work. She starts from there to explore the creation through many different techniques like sketches, painting, printmaking and mixed media. She aims at balancing shapes, colours and texture in a very refined and delicate way. Her pieces are always very malleable while keeping a strong and independent sense of movement. I addressed her few questions to better understand her world, writes Ilaria Ruggiero. IR: Where does your passion for jewellery come from? KB: I suppose I think of myself as a designer/maker first, and then as specifically a jewellery designer/maker. I love bringing ideas IR: Have

Captivating Brilliance by Peter Schmid

Peter Schmid, world-renowned jewelry maker, is launching his all-new exhibition at Patina Gallery,  Captivating Brilliance , inspired by the Santa Fe Opera’s 2018 production of Giacomo Puccini’s  Madame Butterfly , writes Ilaria Ruggiero in this exhibition review.   The exhibition will open on August 10th at Patina Gallery at 131 West Palace Avenue, Santa Fe.  Captivating Brilliance  will showcase pieces greatly influenced from the movements of Orientalism and Exoticism that were popular at the time of Puccini’s  Madame Butterfly  debut. An amazing crossover of inspirations and ideas, on one hand coming from the most current interpretations of Puccini's opera, on the other hand from ancient rituals,

Museum Quality Collection of Emeralds Goes to Auction

Guernsey’s, the New York City-based auction house ,  has announced the auction of the  Marcial  de  Go mar  Collection of rare emeralds  on 25 th  April. T he  Marcial  de  Gomar  Emerald Collection, consisting of La Gloria, which at  887 carats  is one of the largest museum-quality emeralds in the world , along with more than twenty other loose emeralds (both cut and rough) and 13 pieces of extraordinary emerald jewellery.   The event will be conducted live at the Americas Society at 680 Park Avenue with online bidding at liveauctioneers.com. Featured lots in the  Marcial  de  Gomar  Collection include:

Marks & Spencer Combat Customer Allergy Concerns

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

V&A to Showcase Balenciaga: Shaping Fashion

V&A collaborates with artist Nick Veasey to build first ever mobile x-ray art studio ahead of landmark exhibition on designer Cristóbal Balenciaga. Ahead of the first ever UK exhibition on the fashion designer Cristóbal Balenciaga, opening on 27 May, the V&A teamed up with x-ray artist Nick Veasey to create the world's first mobile x-ray art studio. In the studio, Veasey captured a series of beautifully crafted life-sized x-ray images revealing new and surprising details about the work of one of the 20th century's most revered couturiers. The x-ray project is one of several forensic techniques that the Museum has

Fei Liu Cascade Collection Adorns at L’Oreal Colour Trophy

Fei  Liu Fine Jewellery has teamed up with  premier  hair salon, Matthew Paul Salon, for the annual  L’Oreal  Colour Trophy.  Anotonia  wears Cascade Collection's large ring, stud ring, large pendant and large choker. The L'Oréal Colour Trophy, is the longest running live hairdressing competition in the world, and showcases some of the brightest hairdressing talents across the country, whilst ensuring that hairdressers nationwide are continually inspired to celebrate ‘Hair Inspired by Fashion’. Seven-time regional finalist Matthew Fairbrother, the owner of Matthew Paul Salon, competed against fellow elite hairdressers for the Backstage Live Finals at the Rum Warehouse, Liverpool. For the