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Raw Pearls announce Pearl Academy, free and accessible training videos at your fingertips

According to a study by the British Pearl Association, only 20% of staff could explain the types of pearl, nor the factors affecting the value of the pearl. Raw Pearls, one of the UK’s leading pearl jewellery suppliers, have created Pearl Academy to address staff training needs; enabling retail staff to be confident when imparting their knowledge and passion for the pearl. As well as in-store training, Pearl Academy will be releasing a series of webinar style videos that are free and accessible to anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of pearls. Part One has already been released; lasting just [youtube

Raw Pearls' 'Pearl Academy' Continues with Instalments Two and Three

Back in February, we reported that Raw Pearls, one of the UK’s leading pearl jewellery suppliers, have created Pearl Academy to educate the Nation on the oldest gemstone. We're seeing pearls everywhere at the moment , from the runways to the highstreet. A huge focus on jewellery inspired by sea-life has been observable in 2019, no doubt influenced by the 2019 Pantone colour of the Year 'Living Coral' , as well as the increased media focus on our endangered ocean spaces- pearls have been the perfect pairing with shell and coral details. With this surge in interest in pearl jewellery, there's

Pearl

PEARL is an exhibition of work by Caroline Broadhead, Lin Cheung, Melanie Georgacopoulos, Maria Militsi and Frances Wadsworth Jones. Initially brought together through their teaching at the Central Saint Martins BA Jewellery Design course, the work of these five jewellers spans across different fields and tackles different subject matters, yet they all share a mutual fascination with the pearl. They are not alone, the pearl has been a significant index of value throughout time in many cultures. Loaded with symbolism and preconceptions, the pearl is at once a natural material, a status symbol, a fashion statement, a holder of sentiment,

The Prettiest Pearl in the Room

An ever-loved adornment for jewellery, accessories, furniture and more, the pearl is the oldest gem known to man, symbolic for its association with beauty, wealth, wisdom and purity. Pearls are a timeless symbol of style; universally flattering due to their ability to complement a plethora of outfits and brighten just about any complexion of its wearer. One of the most precious trends for winter 2018 is the return of the pearls! Single bold chokers, as well as fine and dainty multi-strand necklaces, are a big hit with designers this season. With interesting clasps, the array of pearl jewellery this winter

The Pearl Neclace

Danni Schwaag: A long search for pearl

Nacre also known as mother of pearl, is an organic-inorganic composite material produced by some molluscs as an inner shell layer; it also makes up the outer coating of pearls writes Ilaria Ruggiero. Nacre also known as mother of pearl, is an organic-inorganic composite material produced by some molluscs as an inner shell layer; it also makes up the outer coating of pearls. It is strong, resilient, and iridescent. Danni Schwaag’s obsession for mother of pearl started during her studies in Idar-Oberstein, when she was looking for a pearl necklace – not a classical one. She wanted to do one on her own, being fascinated by the variety of the material, its luster, the sensitivity and brittleness. Visiting all

The Flaming Pearl Queen of Conch

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

Traditional jewellery with a modern edge by Olivia and Pearl

There is no simpler statement of elegance than a pearl- its opaque allure has long been recognised by fashion muses and taste-makers, famously Coco Chanel, Elizabeth Taylor and Princess Diana. Now, the worlds oldest gem has captured the eye of young designer Olivia Smith, Founder of Olivia & Pearl London. Destined for a new generation of pearl-lovers, the brand aims to be the epicentre of a Venn diagram that encompasses both affordability and luxe design, all whilst walking the fine line between traditional and contemporary. It’s no mean feat, but with the collection’s subtle curves, geometric lines and minimalistic design,

Join us for a Pearl Stringing workshop in the North East!

Join us for a Pearl Stringing workshop in the North East! 20th and 21st September 2024 Whitney Bay Golf Club, Northumberland This first Nirth East workshop will be run by Anja Mohler from String My Pearls and held at Whitney Bay Golf Club on 20th and 21st September! There are two options for the class: 20th September £85, 4 hours Make two Pearl bracelets and learn two stringing techniques. 20th and 21st September £145, 4 hours on each day. Full comprehensive class including 3 stringing methods and dealing with issues, Pearl care and also making some strung pieces - at least 2

2016-2017 International Pearl Design Competition Winners

Peter Bazar, President of the Cultured Pearl Association of America, Inc. proudly announces the winners’ of CPAA’S 2016-2017 International Design competition. “We are very happy with the success of this year’s competition, entries from 18 countries we received” Mr. Bazar reported. President’s Trophy – “Murmuring Stream” Yi-Shiun Tsai of Taipei City, Taiwan .The highest honor awarded to a design that unanimously captivated judges as the best of the best. Luster Award – “Dentelle” The Pearl Exporting Company of Portland, ME. Most marketable design for retail. Designer’s Award –“Pearl Blossom” Wan-Fang Ting of Taipei City, Taiwan. Given to the entry that takes

Raw pearls debut new diamond and pearl collection at IJL

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

HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show 2020

Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show AsiaWorld Expo, Hong Kong 2 - 6 March 2020 The Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show , which specialises in loose stones and raw materials for jewellery, will run from 2 - 6 March 2020 at AsiaWorld-Expo, while the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show , which focuses on finished jewellery at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The twin shows will welcome more than 4,600 exhibitors from about 50 countries and regions, forming the world’s largest jewellery marketplace. The HKTDC collaborates with the Japan Pearl Exporters’ Association and

HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show 2019

Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show AsiaWorld Expo, Hong Kong 26 February to 2 March 2019 The sixth Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show , which specialises in loose stones and raw materials for jewellery, will run from 26 Feb to 2 March 2019 at AsiaWorld-Expo, while the 36th Hong Kong International Jewellery Show , which focuses on finished jewellery, will take place from 28 Feb to 4 March 2019 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The twin shows will welcome more than 4,600 exhibitors from about 50 countries and regions, forming the

Precious Pearl for Those Born in June

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

The 2018 Trends Edit: Pearl Revamp

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

The Modern Pearl Collection by Margot McKinney

Internationally acclaimed jewellery designer Margot McKinney is redefining the way women wear pearls with a new collection created from the unusual beauty of Australian South Sea pearls. Based in Australia, Margot McKinney hails from a long family tradition of luxury retail dating back to 1884. Transcending mere adornment, her jewelry designs are statement pieces of pristine craftsmanship that lend any ensemble a touch of the sublime. For Margot, it often begins with the stone, sourced with extreme care from rare finds. Out of its intrinsic qualities, she fashions the ideal setting for the gem to shine at its most

K2 Jewellery Academy Open Day

K2 Jewellery Academy Open Day Wednesday 5th September 12pm - 8pm Our open day will give you the chance to visit K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery, meet the team and gain in–depth information on our jewellery courses and student experience. You will be able to ask questions about the course, see the studio and facilities and get a taste of the creative atmosphere at the centre. Just drop in at any time, no need to book. See you there! Venue Cockpit Arts, Cockpit Yard, Northington Street, London WC1N 2NP Contact T: +44 (0)7450 257 207 or +44 (0)7786 911 724

Holts Academy of Jewellery Under New Management

Holts Academy of Jewellery has announced that it is now under new leadership, and has been undergoing strategic change over the last year. The change in ownership for the educational establishment means a new era and with this a new name. Holts Academy of Jewellry announced with this that ss of the 25 January it will be known as will be known as the British Academy of Jewellery (BAJ). The BAJ have further announced the intention to retain its traditional values and dedication to teaching excellence, which it developed as it evolved as an education provider. A spokesman for the

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

British Academy of Jewellery to Celebrate Young Talented Designers

The annual graduation ceremony, which celebrates the achievements of the students from the British Academy of Jewellery, will be held at The Royal Institution on Friday, 1 st December. Situated in an idyllic Mayfair location The Royal Institution is steeped in history, boasting a variety of stunning ceremony and reception rooms. The event is anticipated to be a great celebration of fresh talent emerging into the industry of jewellery design and manufacturing. This year’s graduation will include an exciting VIP guest panel, answering the questions of the Academy’s students and inspiring them in their futures as they leave the Academy. This

Evening Jewellery Workshop – Tuesdays @ K2 Academy of Jewellery

Evening Jewellery Workshop – Tuesdays @ K2 Academy of Jewellery All Levels 8 week Workshop - 1 evening a week - Tuesdays 7 January - 3 March 2020 About the Course Have you ever wanted to make your own jewellery? Or have you done it before and would like to hone your skills? From beginners to experienced jewellers, come and practise making jewellery to your own designs. Whether you want to learn a range of jewellery techniques and picking up the basics of cutting, forming and texturing, or taking your designs to the next level with complex approaches such as

Evening Jewellery Workshop, K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Evening Workshop K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery All-levels 8-week Workshop | 1 evening a week | Tuesdays 20 Apr - 15 Jun 2021 This evening jewellery course is for students who want to get an insight into jewellery making. You will learn new techniques, practice your skills, refine your designs and work on your own jewellery projects. Who is the course for? This course is suitable for students of all skill levels. Beginners will get an insight into jewellery making and learn the basic techniques. This includes learning the correct tool handling and equipment for jewellery making. They will also

Electroforming Jewellery Workshop @ K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Electroforming Jewellery Workshop 8 – 10 May 2020 K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery About the Course In this workshop, you will be introduced to the electroforming technique, to create unique, hollow and lightweight jewellery pieces, small objects and samples in copper. First you will learn about the principles of electroforming. We will then select suitable objects, from plastic ready-mades, to found treasures such as twigs, leaves or seashells. We will also cover basics of wax carving to use as mandrels/masters for electroforming. You will be shown how to pretreat and prepare objects, combine them with different materials and apply conductive

Electroforming Jewellery Workshop @ K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

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

Evening Jewellery Workshop with K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Evening Jewellery Workshop with K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced 5 Wednesdays : Wednesdays 31 October 2018 - 5 December 2018 6.00pm – 9.00pm About the Course Did you ever want to make your own jewellery? Or have you done it before and would like to hone your skills? From beginners to experienced jewellers, come and practise making jewellery to your own designs. Whether you want to learn a range of jewellery techniques and picking up the basics of cutting, forming and texturing, or taking your designs to the next level with complex approaches such as stone

K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery presents Ute Decker

K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery presents Ute Decker As an ongoing series of talks and seminars by makers, artists and jewellerswe are very happy to be presenting Ute Decker as our inaugural speaker and would like to invite you to this talk. Ute Decker is a pioneer of the global ethical jewellery movement and one of the first worldwide to work in Fairtrade Gold. She is best known for her minimalist, architectural jewellery art. Her innovative method of sculpting, bending, and twisting gold and silver into expressive three-dimensional “geometric poetry” make her pieces unique. In this talk she will share

Intermediate & Advanced Workshop Projects at K2 Academy

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

Friday Workshop at K2 Academy Of Contemporary Jewellery

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

Jewellery Surgery at K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

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

Electroforming Jewellery Course at K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

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

Evening Jewellery Workshop with K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Evening Jewellery Workshop with K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced Did you ever want to make your own jewellery? Or have you done it before and would like to hone your skills? From beginners to experienced jewellers, come and practise making jewellery to your own designs. Whether you want to learn a range of jewellery techniques and pick up the basics of cutting, forming and texturing, or taking your designs to the next level with complex approaches such as stone setting or chain making. Who Is It For? This mixed level course is ideal for – beginners

K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery - Contemporary Jewellery Workshop

K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery Contemporary Jewellery Saturday Workshop This course is ideal for students who either like to try their hands on design and jewellery making or intermediate students who want to broaden their skill set. About The Course On this practical course you will be working on two to three projects which will explore base metals such as copper, brass and more unconventional materials such as paper, textiles, ribbons or other found materials. You will explore and take your inspiration from the theme of ‘water and its rich underwater life’. Projects could include the making of a brooch,

Lecture By Manon Van Kouswijk at Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Lecture By Manon Van Kouswijk 6:30 - 8pm, 18th July 2019 Cockpit Arts, London Manon van Kouswijk is an acclaimed Dutch artist jeweller based in Melbourne, Australia. She worked as Head of the Jewellry Department at the prestigious Gerrit Rietveld Academy before moving to Melbourne where she has been teaching since 2013 at MADA (Monash University of Art, Design and Architecture) in the Jewellery and Fine Art Faculty. Manon has led numerous successful workshops and masterclasses and worked as a guest lecturer in Japan, Sweden, New Zealand and Germany. She is represented by some of the leading jewellery gallery across

Experimental Setting at K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery Cockpit Arts, London

Experimental Setting at K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery Cockpit Arts, London Tuesday 22 nd – Friday 25 th October 2019 A 4 Day workshop led by Kelvin Birk and Katrin Spranger at K2 Academy Of Contemporary Jewellery, London Experimental Setting This course will give you the possibility to explore and experiment with different setting techniques and to find new ways to use them in an unconventional way. The course will focus on different projects Trapping stones in liquid metal Using uncommon materials for jewellery making and setting Setting found objects and small valuable treasures You will be encouraged to look

BTEC certificated Art & Design courses in Jewellery with K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

BTEC certificated Art & Design courses in Jewellery with K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery is proud to announce that we now deliver BTEC certificated Art & Design courses in Jewellery. From September 2018 onwards we are offering three different certificated Jewellery courses, which run over a full year: BTEC Extended Certificate in Art & Design Beginners or Intermediate 1 Day a week - Mondays or Wednesdays BTEC Foundation in Art & Design Beginners, Intermediate or Advanced 2 Days a week - Mondays and Wednesdays BTEC Diploma in Art & Design Intermediate and Advanced 3 Days

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

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

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

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

Evening Jewellery Workshop (Wednesdays) at K2 Academy Of Contemporary Jewellery

Evening Jewellery Workshop (Wednesdays) at K2 Academy Of Contemporary Jewellery, London Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced 6 weeks – 23 Jan - 6 Mar 2019 (no class on the 20th Feb) 6.00pm – 9.00pm Did you ever want to make your own jewellery? Or have you done it before and would like to hone your skills? From beginners to experienced jewellers, come and practise making jewellery to your own designs. Whether you want to learn a range of jewellery techniques and picking up the basics of cutting, forming and texturing, or taking your designs to the next level with complex approaches

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,

Engrave Your Dreams & Nightmares at the K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Engrave Your Dreams & Nightmares with Pierce Healy A 4 Day Workshop led by Pierce Healy at K2 Academy Of Contemporary Jewellery, London 11–14 April 2019 Engrave Your Dreams And Nightmares Storytelling And Texturing Through Engraving Ever since mankind crawled from the swamp to stand upright he/she has been mark making, scratching and scaring the earths crust or own skin whether marking territory, adorning, or storytelling. Do you want to become part of this continuum, and become a link in this chain of curious storytelling mark makers? The aims of the course is not only to develop a basic understanding of

Royal Academy Schools Announce New Project: Fashion Arts Commission

The BFC Fashion Arts Foundation and the Royal Academy Schools are committed to encouraging and nurturing future talent. A new commissioning project will bring together fashion designers and visual artists to collaborate across art forms. The project is called Fashion Art Commissions and will pair graduates from the RA Schools with NEWGEN and NEWGEN MEN designers. The commission will produce artworks that will form part of an auction at Christie’s. The pieces will be on display from the 31st October – 11th November at Christie’s King Street gallery and will then be part of an online auction from 22nd November

Royal Academy Schools Announce New Project: Fashion Art Commissions

The BFC Fashion Arts Foundation and the Royal Academy Schools are committed to encouraging and nurturing future talent. A new commissioning project will bring together fashion designers and visual artists to collaborate across art forms. The project is called Fashion Art Commissions and will pair graduates from the RA Schools with Newgen and Newgen Men designers. The commission will produce artworks that will form part of an auction at Christie’s. The pieces will be on display from the 31st October – 11th November at Christie’s King Street gallery and will then be part of an online auction from 22nd November

Art & Design Level 2 Course, K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery Autumn Short Courses 2017 Introductory Courses Course Title: Award In Art & Design Level 2 Duration: 12 Week Course, One Day A Week Dates: 13 Sept 2017 - 29 Nov 2017 Diploma Courses Course Title: Diploma In Art & Design Level 2 Duration: Year Long Course, 1 Day A Week Dates: 14 Sept 2017 - 14 Sept 2018 Course Title: Diploma In Art & Design Level 3 Duration: Year Long Course, 2 Days A Week Dates: 11 Sept 2017 - 11 Sept 2018 Short Courses Course Title: Experimental Setting Duration: 4 Day Course Dates:

Contemporary Wax Carving & Wax Modelling, K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Diploma In Art & Design Level 2, K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Diploma In Art & Design Level 3, K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery

Liane Wolf: Anodised Aluminium - Colour And Design Expression In Metal at K2 Academy Of Contemporary Jewellery

Liane Wolf: Anodised Aluminium - Colour And Design Expression In Metal at K Academy Of Contemporary Jewellery 25 – 27 May 2019 A 3 Days Workshop led by Liane Wolf at K Academy Of Contemporary Jewellery, London Colour And Design Expression In Metal 'Introduce colour to your jewellery designs through discovering an array of creative techniques for adding patterns, images and colour effects to pre-anodised aluminium. This unique material and process allows for colouring to become part of the metal surface as a permanent colourfast effect. We'll explore a variety of artistic approaches, including dying, mono-printing, stamping and using resists to

Experimental Casting Course with K2 Academy of Jewellery

Experimental Casting 23 - 25 October 2022 During this course you will explore and experiment with different casting processes and use them in an unconventional way. Traditional techniques like sand, water, ice and cuttlefish casting will be taught and used as the starting point of your creative journey. Through casting onto different materials, you will be encouraged to ‘cast outside the box’ and take the process literally outside the studio, to cast into gaps, cracks and other items in the street. You will be using different metals such as pewter, silver and bismuth. You will explore the possibilities of the

Experimental Setting IV at K2 Academy of Jewellery

Experimental Setting 4 Day Course 11 - 14 April 2018 What will be taught? This course will give you the possibility to explore and experiment with different setting techniques and to find new ways to use them in an unconventional way. The course will focus on different projects Trapping stones in liquid metal Using uncommon materials for jewellery making and setting Setting found objects and small valuable treasures You will be encouraged to look for a various ways of how to set stones and objects and explore the possibilities of embracing them in alternative ways and methods. The creative journey

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

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

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

Traditional to Contemporary Wax Carving and Wax Modelling at K2 Academy

Traditional to Contemporary Wax Carving and Wax Modelling 5 Week Course - Thursdays 26 April 2018 - 24 May 2018 About the Course The course is designed to explore working with different traditional carving and modelling waxes, that are used for jewellery making. If you are starting out on wax carving, you will get a set of projects, such as carve a simple ring and a pendant or brooch. If you are a returning learner, you will be guided to work on your individual projects and pieces. You will also be shown how to integrate gems into your designs and

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,

Melanie Georgacopoulo: MOP Shell Collection

The MOP Shell collection crafted by Melanie Georgacopoula celebrates Mother of Pearl and its various beautiful colours, featuring seamless MOP diamond and emerald forms, paired with 18ct gold and freshwater pearls. Mother of Pearl, otherwise known as nacre is produced by mollusks as an inner shell layer, it also makes up the outer coating of pearls. It is a strong, resilient and iridescent material that has been used for thousands of years, mainly in the form of inlay. Natural Mother of Pearl has many different applications worldwide, in both expensive and inexpensive items. It can be commonly found in East

Swiss based jewellery artist visits London for exciting collaboration

The Clerkenwell based contemporary jewellery academy K² Academy of Contemporary Jewellery, founded by jewellery artists Kelvin J Birk and Katrin Spranger have told about how excited and thrilled they are at an upcoming collaboration with fellow jewellery artist Christoph Zellweger. Zellweger will be leading an exclusive 4 ½ day workshop in London for the first time at the K² Academy, coming to London especially for the event in August. The collaboration between Zellweger and the Academy is a perfect match, as the Academy focuses on a conceptual, free-thinking approach to jewellery design underpinned by rigorous technical training. Something which internationally

Raw Pearls to hold 25% off stock clearance at IJL

Raw Pearls, one of the UK’s leading pearl jewellery suppliers have had an incredible year with the launch of an innovative education programme, numerous awards and new product lines. All of which they will celebrate with a monumental stock clearance at this year’s IJL. Director Miranda Raw said, “As we all know, the high street has been somewhat stuck of late, and we want to help our clients by offering at least 25% off hundreds of our lines at IJL in September. Visitors will see pearl prices like they’ve never seen before!” Pearls have been enjoying a revamp for some

International

Here are our favourite international based schools and training providers... Salzburg International Summer Academy of Fine Arts Franziskanergasse 5a, 5020 Salzburg, Austria. www.summeracademy.at If you would like to see your training organisation listed here, please email us .

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

Summer School at K2 2020

K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery Summer School K2 Academy are offering an exciting range of 1-day jewellery short courses during the first two weeks of August. Each class focuses on a different technique. 3 - 7 August 2020 & 10 - 14 August 2020 Intro into jewellery making / surface textures (beginners, intermediate) This course offers you an insight into jewellery making with a focus on surface texture. You will be making a simple pendant and learn different surface texture techniques like roll-printing, hammering and reticulation as well as piercing and soldering. Monday 3 August 2020 10am - 4pm

London Design Fair - Old Truman Brewery, London

The 10th anniversary of the London Design Fair runs from 22 – 25 September 2016. This year sees the addition of an amazing new 3rd floor, with country pavilions, features and exhibitions including: 100% Norway, China Academy of Art, British Craft Pavilion, Design in South Italy, Design Prize Switzerland, Form & Seek, Inspiring Portugal, Liu Malmsten & Swedish Wood, Nature Lab, Nordic Design Collective, Scotland: Craft and Design, Swedish Design Pavilion, Takram, The Publishing House (Flea Folly), The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, This Is India & Trentino Collaborations Not to mention over 450 independent designers & studios and

News Edit: 24 November 2024

A curated edit of this week's national and international jewellery news... Style Edit: Van Cleef & Arpels unveils 4 stunning Rose de Noël pieces in celebration of the holiday season, from pendants to earrings in eye-catching combinations and sporting floral motifs SCMP reports: The intricate designs, including grey mother-of-pearl and vibrant turquoise gemstones set in gold, are inspired by winter flowers and dedicated to the beauty of nature. www.scmp.com Independent jewellers realise potential of physical stores FT reports: A shift in focus from ecommerce is in response to demand from clients for a more personal, tactile experience. www.ft.com In honour

Pearls - A Practical Guide by Wendy Graham

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

Raw Pearls Celebrate After Record Breaking IJL

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

Mari Funaki Award Announce 2018 Winners

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

Playing with Pearls

The pearl has long been a stable of those who long for an elegant and sophisticated style but 2019 will see the classic piece make a return to the mainstream spotlight and in turn, convert a whole new fashion crowd. If you're one to keep your beady eyes on the trends, you'll have noticed that pearls are a fashion staple that never seems to go out of style. Adorning just about every inch of fashion's finest chunky trainers, strung tightly around choker-style chains and delicately dangling from earlobes across the runway, the resurgence of pearls this season is all about

Swinging Into New Year Ear Bling

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

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

Royal favourite Claudia Bradby launches new collection

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

British Fashion Council Announce Designer Fashion Fund Recipients

The British Fashion Council (BFC) this week announced Mother of Pearl and palmer// harding as the winners of this year’s BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund at a champagne reception hosted at Hotel Café Royal in partnership with Perrier- Jouët . In 2017 the Fund adjusted its format with a focus on bringing key expertise into designer businesses to assist with development and growth. The £200,000 Fund was opened up to be shared between up to three recipients, enabling the fund to benefit multiple designers at a pivotal stage in the growth of their brand’s development. The winners still receive a full

Not Just For The Queen: Girl With The Pearls

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

Melanie Georgacopoulos: MOP Shell Collection Features New Pieces

Melanie Georgacopoulos recently added new pieces to their "MOP Shell" collection. They will be unveiling the collection this week at Collect at the Saatchi Gallery, London, where you can discover the new additions! Mother of Pearl, otherwise known as nacre is produced by mollusks as an inner shell layer, it also makes up the outer coating of pearls. It is a strong, resilient and iridescent material that has been used for thousands of years, mainly in the form of inlay. Natural MOP has many different applications worldwide, in both expensive and inexpensive items. It can be commonly found in East Asian and

School of Jewellery Students Impress With Halo Designs

Three second year students studying for a Higher National Diploma in Jewellery and Silversmithing at the Birmingham City University's School of Jewellery have been shortlisted as finalists in an annual design competition run by Birmingham-based casting house, 3D printing and bespoke manufacturing company Weston Beamor. The brief for this year’s Live Project was to design a halo engagement ring and a fitted wedding band to sit alongside it. All designs had to include a primary gemstone or pearl, mounted in precious metal. Students were asked to tailor their designs towards 25-35 year olds. Three potential winners – Ruth Hallows, Bethany

Professional Development

We've compiled a list of professional development and short course providers from up and down the country... West Dean College West Dean Nr Chichester West Sussex PO18 0QZ www.westdean.ac.uk Annette Petch Jewellery Studio 1 Manor Oaks Studios 389 Manor Lane Sheffield S2 1UL www.annettepetchjewellery.co.uk Barovic Jewellery Academy Barovic Jewellery Academy 2 The Broadway Bedford Bedfordshire MK40 2TH 01234 340006 academy@barovic.co.uk www.barovicjewelleryacademy.co.uk Bezeal 16 Bryn Calch, Morganstown, Cardiff. CF15 8FD www.bezeal.co.uk Bishopsland Nr Reading Berkshire/Oxfordshire www.bishopsland.org.uk Bristol School of Ar Bristol School of Art Queens Road Clifton Bristol BS8 1PX www.sgscol.ac.uk Centrepunch South East London / Kent borders www.centrepunch.co.uk Craftworx Jewellery Workshops

Nadine Aysoy makes eye-catching IJL debut

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

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

Opportunities knock for youngsters at BAJ event

Soon to be graduates of the British Academy of Jewellery will get their chance to impress movers and shakers in the British jewellery industry at a special networking event where dreams could turn into reality for the next generation of jewellers looking to progress. A group of trade members, doubling up as potential employers, are being invited to meet the students and their teachers over lunch where they can discuss the BAJ's apprenticeship programme and the funding before they are given a tour of the workshops to find out more about the training. Students of the “Preparation for the Jewellery

‘Connecting Values: Exploring Co-Creation Through Making’ Exhibition

‘Connecting Values: Exploring Co-Creation Through Making’ Exhibition 17 May - 4 June 2021 Swiss Cottage Gallery, London In 2019 K2 Academy was invited to participate in Camden Alive Project , a programme of arts and cultural events that celebrates the people of Camden and captures the sights, sounds and spirit of the borough. K2’s founders and directors, Katrin Spranger and Kelvin Birk , were commissioned to develop their own art projects with Camden residents and K2 students based on their stories and chosen theme of ‘value’. This cultural exchange culminated in creating an electroformed fountain and crushed-stone neckpiece which were

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

Mehdi Saadian Appointed NAJ Vice Chair

The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) is delighted to announce the appointment of Mehdi Saadian, Director of the GIA London campus, as the new Vice Chair of the NAJ. A distinguished member of the jewellery and valuation profession, Mehdi is an active member of the Institute of Registered Valuers (IRV) and the Academy of Experts. He has played a significant role in the NAJ's National Committee since joining in 2022, contributing to simplifying, standardising and visualising the governance model of the Association. Mehdi will succeed Adam Jacobs as Chair in 2026. Commenting on his new role, Mehdi shared, "I'm truly honoured to take

17 of the Best Jewellery Looks from the 2020 Oscars!

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

Jewellery Illustration Workshop with Elena Shkvarkina

Jewellery Illustration Workshop with Elena Shkvarkina K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery 2-day Workshop 21-22 May 2022 This course is designed to challenge your creative thinking and enhance your jewellery practise with new artistic expression. About the course Palimpsest Ink Drawing is the art of superimposed ink layers. Elena Shkvarkina developed this technique searching for an art practice that would allow experimentation beyond traditional art aesthetics, and encourage self-expression regardless of skills or prior painting experience. Thanks to its experimental nature, Palimpsest Ink Drawing welcomes improvisation and miss-marking. The layered application creates a memoir of your drawing where you can

‘Making Connections’ Lecture by Corinne Julius

K2 Presents: ‘Making Connections’ Lecture by Corinne Julius K2 Academy of Contemporary Jewellery Education Space at Cockpit, Holborn Monday, 7th March 2022, 6pm - 8pm No matter how creative a jeweller you are, no matter how exciting your designs, unless you can reach your market, that jewellery will not be in conversation with wearers and observers. It’s never easy to sell your own work, which to some degree means selling yourself. Covid and lockdown has made that harder and for many face to face communication has become unbearably difficult. To help, the journalist, critic and curator Corinne Julius will discuss

SO WHAT! Liquid jewels by Nadine Kuffner

SO WHAT! exhibition, featuring the work by Nadine Kuffner, just closed at Irene Belfi Gallery in Milan and confirms the main intent of the gallery to promote high quality contemporary jewellery artists and goldsmith writes Ilaria Ruggiero. SO WHAT! is also the name of the work with which Nadine graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts in Monaco, and an obvious provocation. In fact, the artist, fascinated by a material so poorly considered in jewellery as tin, exploits its properties, freely experimenting during the liquid phase of its state. Her hands try to direct the material towards forms she imagines, but

Q&A: Aishleen Lester

Aishleen Lester is an emerging new talent in the jewellery industry, having founded her new business in 2016 after coming to jewellery design at Kensington & Chelsea College through evening classes. She is a well reputed fine artist in her own right, known for large scale, sculptural installations who’s work is held in private collections and has previously exhibited in the Riflemaker and Nyehaus galleries. Trained at Wimbledon School of Art and the Royal Academy Schools, she built up her jewellery industry credentials by working with the likes of Shaun Leane and Paul Raven before venturing out on her own

IJL Seminar Programme 2017

IJL will introduce five redesigned areas for the 2017 show to bring an even greater array of talks, workshops and one-on-one advice sessions to visitors and exhibitors. The widely visited trade show will host a completely revised and revamped seminar schedule for 2017, bringing back the Inspiration Theatre and Trends Catwalk and introducing DIGIfest, The Academy and Skills Lab for the very first time. The three-day seminar programme has been carefully tailored to 2016 show feedback, ensuring the questions most commonly asked by jewellery retailers, brands and businesses are answered in style. Topics covered by expert speakers and panels this

IJL Show Director to step down after IJL 2017

International Jewellery London biggest stand alone jewellery trade event, will bid farewell to Event Director Sam Willoughby in October, after eight years at the helm and more than 13 years working for Reed Exhibitions. Willoughby and her team have developed unique and market leading features at IJL, including the VIP Diamond Club programme and an innovative 365-day strategy across content marketing, social media and industry support. At this year’s show, as well as over 500 jewellery exhibitors of which 150 are new, there is a revitalised Seminar Programme featuring brand new learning areas such as The Academy, Digifest and Skills

Appointment: Christopher Scoates Named Director Of The Museum Of Arts And Design

The Board of Trustees of the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) today announced the appointment of Christopher Scoates as the Museum’s next Nanette L. Laitman Director. Currently serving as the Maxine and Stuart Frankel Director at the Cranbrook Academy of Art and Art Museum in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Scoates will stay in that role through the end of the academic year. He will join MAD on July 1, 2018. “I am deeply honored to have been chosen to lead MAD,” said Scoates. “I greatly admire the Museum’s track record of experimental exhibitions, and I look forward to building upon

One Drop Plus One Drop Makes One Drop

One Drop Plus One Drop Makes One Drop - Adi Toch A solo exhibition from award winning metalsmith Adi Toch. Adi Toch’s practice as a metalsmith centres on making engaging vessels and containers that investigate colour, movement, sound and tactility. Following a BA in Metal at Bezalel Art Academy in Jerusalem, Adi completed an MA at the Cass, London in 2009. Her work is exhibited internationally and has won prestigious awards including the Gold Award from The Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Council in 2013. She was recently shortlisted for The Loewe Craft Prize and won a 2017 Wallpaper* Design Award. Adi is currently a

Karl & Lisa @ Gallery Funaki

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

Student takes inspiration from lillies to win Alba Rose design competition

British Academy of Jewellery student Olivia Thurlwell took the Calla lilly as her inspiration for the design of a new bridal collection to win the BAJ's Final Project Design competition backed by Alba Rose. The talented final year student was praised by judges for her designs, which were part of a project to design, develop and create a unique bridal collection which appealed to Alba Rose's target audience. Every Level 3 DJP features a live final project where the students are asked to work to a professional brief. The main objective of the project was to design pieces that can

A Ring Is A Ring Is A Ring

BAJ, Alchimia and Hocheschule Trier Students showcase results of year long collaborative project in exhibition during London Design Festival. The exhibition titled "A Ring Is A Ring Is A Ring" is the result of a yearlong project between 3 European jewellery schools. Students from the hosting institution, the British Academy of Jewellery based in London; the Department of Gemstone and Jewellery of the Hochschule Trier located in Idar Oberstein, Germany and Alchimia School of Contemporary Jewellery based in Florence, Italy, will be displaying their work during the London Design Festival. As a focal point, the students took inspiration from the

IJL Launches New Seminar Offering 2017 Show

International Jewellery London has unveiled a completely revised and revamped seminar schedule for 2017, bringing back the Inspiration Theatre and Trends Catwalk and introducing DIGIfest, The Academy and Skills Lab for the very first time. The three-day seminar programme has been carefully tailored to 2016 show feedback, ensuring the questions most commonly asked by jewellery retailers, brands and businesses are answered in style. Topics covered by expert speakers and panels this year include social media marketing, working with influencers, digital design, retail experience, the customer journey and expert sales training. Leading luminary Stephen Webster shine brightly in this year’s line-up,

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

Appointment: Harriet Kelsall elected first female Chair of the National Association of Jewellers

One of the UK's most respected bespoke designers Harriet Kelsall has been elected as the first female chair of The National Association of Jewellers after serving as Vice-Chair for the past two years. Well-known for championing the causes of education, ethics and the environment in the jewellery industry, Harriet brings a wide range of skills and know-how to her new role, tapping into her experience and expertise from acting as chair of the NAJ's new Education steering group, advising the Government on jewellery making skills as part of the Creative and Cultural skill academy and growing her business Harriet Kelsall

BAJ attends the 25th Parlement Lycéen Européen Meeting

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

Apprentices Get Skills Training Boost To Put Them On A Path To Success

Apprentices from Holts Academy and Higher Education students from the Birmingham School of Jewellery are set to receive an intensive week of technical skills training in Birmingham. From 12th to 16th September 2016, experienced silversmith Andrew MacGowan taught ten young people how to transform a fixed design into a final piece at the Birmingham School of Jewellery, which has been made possible through financial support from the Goldsmiths’ Company Members’ Charitable Fund and coordination via the Goldsmiths’ Centre in London. Silversmithing, and the technical skills that underpin it, is a rapidly changing trade seeing a revolution in design and technical

Nel Linssen 1935 - 2016

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

Nel Linssen 1935 - 2016

Chinese Designer RUI XU Makes A Stand For Wildlife

Following on from her successful exhibition Beauty On Fire – For Zaha at the Zaha Hadid Gallery (in memory of her friend and muse – the late, great Dame Zaha Hadid), Rui Xu is firmly cementing her position as a leading designer in the UK. Rui Xu is an award-winning Chinese fashion designer and contemporary artist whose works bridge fashion, painting, music and performance, blurring the boundaries of culture and aesthetics. She was the Director of Fashion at China Central Academy of Fine Arts Beijing (CAFA), and now lectures at the university as an Associate Professor. After a year of

Appointment: Doug Henry, New CEO & Assay Master

The AnchorCert Group, comprising Assay Office Birmingham, AnchorCert Analytical, AnchorCert Gem Lab, SafeGuard Valuations and AnchorCert Academy, has announced the appointment of Doug Henry MBA as incoming Chief Executive and Assay Master. Doug, who is currently joint CEO, will commence his new appointment as the company's 14th Assay Master on Monday 3 April 2017, having originally joined AnchorCert Group to restructure the quality management system in September 2014. Doug then successfully project-managed the business relocation to Moreton Street in July 2015. Doug has subsequently led the management of the Indian off-shore sub-office, and continues to support the development of quality

Amberif Design Award 2018 Announce Winners

Silvia Bella of Germany, Kairi Sirendi of Estonia and Miron Kutarba of Poland have been announced as the winners of the 2018 edition of the Amberif Design Award, the 22 nd International Amber Jewellery Design Competition. The theme of Serendipity encouraged participation from 100 artists who submitted 127 entries. Amberif Design Award is one of Poland’s most important design competitions of international renown. This year, ADA’s curator Barbara Schmidt of the Academy of Art and Design, Munich, has set the theme of Serendipity to encourage a reflection on how the interplay between nature, technique and intuition can take us far beyond our reason,