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Freelance Jeweller / Polisher

Freelance Jeweller / Polisher I have many years’ experience within the jewellery and silversmithing industry and now undertake work as a contractor undertaking mounting and polishing work, for a number of casting companies as well as offering bespoke pieces to my customers. I am based in Essex and am happy to work on one off pieces or batch production work. I currently post and can collect work on request. Please feel free to check out my Instagram page to see my previous work, and I happy to provide references from the companies I currently work with. I am available for

Trainee / Junior Silversmith, Grant Macdonald - London

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

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair A collaborative partnership between three of the UK’s leading ethically sourced gemstone suppliers, Stuart Pool of Nineteen48, Kathy Chappell of Fair Trade Gemstones and Ian Bone of Capricorn Gems- Queensland, Australia has led to an inaugural one-day fair for the UK market. This unique fair will see gemstones available that offer full provenance and ethical sourcing. Jewellery designers will be able to view and purchase, with the complete assurance of responsible mining and production. Details on the location of each gemstone will be available to every customer. The gemstones available will include a wide range of

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair 1 April 2019 Glasgow The collaborative partnership of four of the UK’s leading ethically sourced gemstone suppliers, Stuart Pool (Nineteen48), Kathy Chappell (Fair Trade Gemstones), Ian Bone (Capricorn Gems) and Maira Toledo Rodrigues (Gemstones Brazil), will be offering their gemstones with full provenance of ethical sourcing to trade customers and jewellery/design students at three gem fairs in March and April. These suppliers have developed the business connections to ensure that their gems have been sourced and processed throughout the chain from mine to market to satisfy the stringent ethical requirements now being rightly sought. “The word

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair 2 April 2019 Edinburgh The collaborative partnership of four of the UK’s leading ethically sourced gemstone suppliers, Stuart Pool (Nineteen48), Kathy Chappell (Fair Trade Gemstones), Ian Bone (Capricorn Gems) and Maira Toledo Rodrigues (Gemstones Brazil), will be offering their gemstones with full provenance of ethical sourcing to trade customers and jewellery/design students at three gem fairs in March and April. These suppliers have developed the business connections to ensure that their gems have been sourced and processed throughout the chain from mine to market to satisfy the stringent ethical requirements now being rightly sought. “The word

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair

Ethically Sourced Gemstone Fair 28 - 29 March 2019 London The collaborative partnership of four of the UK’s leading ethically sourced gemstone suppliers, Stuart Pool (Nineteen48), Kathy Chappell (Fair Trade Gemstones), Ian Bone (Capricorn Gems) and Maira Toledo Rodrigues (Gemstones Brazil), will be offering their gemstones with full provenance of ethical sourcing to trade customers and jewellery/design students at three gem fairs in March and April. These suppliers have developed the business connections to ensure that their gems have been sourced and processed throughout the chain from mine to market to satisfy the stringent ethical requirements now being rightly sought.

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.

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

Diamond and Gemstone Setter - Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham

Diamond and Gemstone Setter – Excellent Salary Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham We are a multi-brand jewellery company with two busy studios in the UK. Our clients are across the UK and US. We are seeking high quality Diamond and Gemstone Setters to work as a key part of our Birmingham Production Team. The role is integral to our production workflow and the right candidate will show meticulous attention to detail when carrying out their work. Setters are responsible for all setting tasks and must be experienced in setting all types of gemstones and styles to a high standard. You will work

Gemstone/Art: Renaissance to the Present Day

The Guide to Gemstone Settings: Styles and Techniques

500 Gemstone Jewels (500 Series)

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

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

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,

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

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

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

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

Collaborative partnership brings UK’s first ethically sourced gemstone fair to London

A collaborative partnership between three of the UK’s leading ethically sourced gemstone suppliers, Stuart Pool of Nineteen48, Kathy Chappell of Fair Trade Gemstones and Ian Bone of Capricorn Gems- Queensland, Australia has led to an inaugural one-day fair for the UK market. This unique fair will see gemstones available that offer full provenance and ethical sourcing. "Having worked closely together for some time, this event is a natural extension of our collaboration. For jewellers who have an emphasis on responsible sourcing, we think this is the best opportunity to see and buy a wide range of traceable gemstones from around

Gemstone Buying Guide: How to Evaluate, Identify, Select and Care for Colored Gems

YAA YAA LONDON targets new wholesale stockists with its colourful gemstone range

Founded in 2017 by former Legal PA and stylist Yvonne Asare, the jewellery brand has gone from strength-to-strength since its launch and is now stocked in some of this country’s best independent fashion boutiques and concept stores as well as online via ASOS Marketplace. Yvonne is now ready to take the brand to the next level and is looking to partner with jewellery and fashion boutiques and concept stores in the UK and worldwide, that are seeking an innovative and colourful jewellery line to add to their range. Commenting on her plans for the brand, Yvonne said: “YAA YAA LONDON

Q&A: Stephen M Goldsmith FIPG MBGG

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

Alexander Wood receives the Goldsmiths’ Company Apprentice of the Year Award

First granted in 2015, this prestigious annual award celebrates excellence in skill, attitude and commitment. This year Alex was nominated not only for his exceptional performance since starting his training as a diamond mounting apprentice, but also to recognise the support he has received from his former Master, Nathaniel Groves. Selected by the Goldsmiths’ Company Apprenticeship team and his fellow Apprentices, it was acknowledged that Alex - who is a former Goldsmiths’ Centre Foundation Programme trainee now working for E C Wolfe - had proven his exceptional capability throughout his four-year diamond-mounting apprenticeship with Nathaniel Groves. In particular, Alex was

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

Jewellery Administrator, Greenspark - Wilmslow, Cheshire

The role Jewellery Administrator (P/T) Greenspark Wilmslow, Cheshire We are a well established fine jewellery, diamond and gemstone manufacturer and wholesaler based near Manchester Airport. As Jewellery Manufacturers and Diamond & Gemstone Merchants we have the resources available to scour the world markets for our stock selection and for our customers individual requirements. With an expansion plan in place we are now looking for a bright and motivated individual to join our small team on a part time basis as a Jewellery Administrator. About the Job Role involves the following as a guideline: Basic every day admin Recording post received and processing

Office Assistant, CR Gems - Hatton Garden, London

The role Jewellery Office Assistant CR Gems Hatton Garden, London We are currently recruiting for a full time Office Assistant in our Hatton Garden, London office for our gemstone company. Experience in gemstones would be ideal but not essential. The right candidate should be computer literate, good communicator and willing to learn. The position is for 5 days per week including the occasional Saturday on a staff rota basis. CR Gems are coloured gemstone specialist dealers with offices in London, Birmingham & New York. Please contact us for further information or to apply use the applicaiton form below. About us CR

FORGE Launch Events

FORGE Launch Events 9-23 February 2023 59 Leather Lane, London, EC1N 7TJ A fortnight of events, talks, workshops & jewellery showcase FORGE is opening it’s doors on Thursday 9th February! Following a glittering launch party on 9th February, there will be a fortnight of events, talks, workshops and a showcase of jewellery by Sarah Herriot, Sanni Falkenberg, Claire MacFarlane, Kitty Konsta, Shakti Ellenwood and many more. The events and workshops program including: Gemstone Illustration, In Conversation with Rachael Taylor and Mary Ann Wingfield, Gemstone Bingo with Gemmology Rocks, Discover Stone Carving with Sanni Falkenberg, Date Night Pendant Making, Behind the

Opsydia Collaborates with Emerald Supplier Myne London

Leading gemstone security specialist, Opsydia, has collaborated with ethical and sustainable emerald supplier, Myne London, to permanently place its brand logo beneath the surface of its traceable emerald melee supply from Pakistan. Leading gemstone security specialist, Opsydia, has collaborated with ethical and sustainable emerald supplier, Myne London, to permanently place its brand logo beneath the surface of its traceable emerald melee supply from Pakistan. The Opsydia team worked with Myne London Founders Fiona Wellington and Kate Murray Gordos, and their in-house gemmologist Charles Evans Bsc (Hons) FGA DGA, to create a procedure for placing the business’ unique ‘M’ logo beneath

Navneet Gems & Minerals unveils a unique selection of 1ct + Unheated Color-change Sapphires from Tanzania at GJX Tuscon Gem Show 2024

Thailand-based gemstone manufacturer Navneet Gems and Minerals launches a collection of responsibly sourced Unheated Color-change Sapphires from Tanzania ranging between 0.50 ct to over 2 cts+ sizes in commercial to fine investment grade qualities. The collection comprises 50-100 pieces from the Songea region in Tanzania, catering to all preferences—from single stones, fancy shapes to investment-grade sapphires. Navneet will also unveil a selection of calibrated color-change sapphires ranging from 5mm to 5.5mm, featuring diverse shapes and cuts, notably round brilliant cuts that are well-suited for bracelets and necklaces. Each gemstone is hand selected and cut in their facility in Thailand. Agarwal

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

Gübelin Gem Lab Announces Emerald Paternity Test

The Gübelin Gem Lab, one of the world’s leaders in the analysis of precious gemstones is has announced the launch of their Emerald Paternity Test; a new traceability technology creating independent proof of provenance for emeralds This new technology uses customised DNA-based nanoparticles enabling traceability of emeralds back to the exact place of mining. The Emerald Paternity Test is a true game-changer for the coloured gemstone industry. It is the first of a series of technologies and services developed by Gübelin Gem Lab dedicated to bringing more transparency into the gemstone industry, united under the Provenance Proof label. This breakthrough technology

McCaul Goldsmiths Launch Arris Collection

The Arris Collection by McCaul Goldsmiths is designed with each one-of-a-kind gemstone in mind where carved curves are made a soft satin texture to compliment its wearer. Elegant raised contour lines form where different surfaces meet around the new collection rings. Deep valleys tunnel underneath the stone, which are highlighted with a mirror shine finish that reflects and enhances the colour of the gemstone. As future heirlooms, these generously proportioned contemporary statement rings are made to last generations. The design direction for McCaul Goldsmiths is constantly evolving where each and every piece is excitingly unique. Two of the most popular

Services Offered

Not recommendations, but a signpost of allied trade services available... Gemstone Dealers Spinel Gem Ltd Specialising in eye-clean natural spinel in various colours, sourced directly from our primary branch based in Mogok, Myanmar. We offer ethically sourced, untreated natural gemstones with a known origin. For your convenience, we also offer in-person gemstone private viewings either at your London business premises or by appointment only at Spinel Gem Ltd, FORGE, 59 Leather Lane, EC1N 7TJ. As a London-based company, we are easily accessible for any inquiries you may have. For more information or to book a private viewing, visit www.naturalspinelgem.co.uk Setting

Salon with Peridot Expert: Constance Lauvinerie -

We had a salon with Constance Lauvinerie, Head of the Jewellery Department at Collector Square First discovered almost three thousand years ago close to St John's Island near Egypt, the Peridot was one of the favourite stones of Cleopatra and was celebrated by the Ancient Egyptians as the "Gemstone of the Sun" under its ancient name, Chrysolite. The legends around this stone are numerous: lt is supposed to aid friendship, to free the spirit of the sin of envy, to make its carrier more eloquent and to cure the diseases of the liver. Nowadays, this semi-precious gemstone - the birthstone

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

May You Say It With Emeralds

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

Marketing B2B Executive - Hatton Garden, London

The role Marketing B2B Executive CR Gems Hatton Garden, London CR Gems are coloured gemstone specialist dealers with offices in London, Birmingham & New York. We are looking for an experienced marketeer ideally with experience in the jewellery industry to strategise and tactically deliver marketing initiatives across our international portfolio. The role would require targeting the UK & USA markets to grow our reach. Ideally the candidate would have B2B experience in the jewellery industry but it is not essential as communicating to existing and potential new customers would be the main purpose. A minimum of three year’s traditional marketing

Myne London partners with LA jeweller Octavia Elizabeth to provide ethical and traceable emeralds

London based emerald supplier and bespoke fine jeweller, Myne London, has announced a partnership with LA-based business, Octavia Elizabeth, to supply the brand with ethical, sustainable and traceable emeralds. Myne London offers a traceable route to market for emeralds from Swat Valley, Pakistan, whilst providing opportunities for women local to the region within the gemstone trade. The business focuses on promoting women’s empowerment through access to education, training and skilled employment supported by the region’s high-quality emerald melee, as 2 well as the creation of Swat Valley emerald bespoke jewellery and collaborations with international jewellery brands and designers. Myne London

VOICE GEMS: 1000 Year Archive

[youtube url=http://youtu.be/0ZbUYE4afog] VOICE GEMS 8th - 26th September 2022 on Oxford Street, London Pioneering artists and technologists Harry Yeff (Reeps100) and Trung Bao have opened a solo show across the interior and exterior of London’s W1 Curates presented by W1 Immersive on Oxford Street, where they will debut VOICE GEMS: 1000 YEAR ARCHIVE, a collection of the Earth’s most unique, remarkable and vulnerable voices that have been preserved as individual gemstones. The new 400 square metre immersive gallery will present wall-to-wall digital gemstone artworks from a selection of the VOICE GEM archive, as well as a public digital

Opsydia Secures Investment to Drive Growth in its Innovative Security Solutions for the Diamond Sector

The UK-based laser technology specialist welcomes significant funding from three core investors to support the next phase of its growth and development. Leading gemstone security specialist, Opsydia, has secured significant funding to kickstart the next phase of its development and support its continued growth in the international diamond and coloured stone industries. The investment will enable the wider roll-out of Opsydia’s secure laser inscription technology to international businesses, including numerous new client acquisitions in 2021/22. The funding will also enable Opsydia to expand its sales team and invest further in its Oxford-based production facilities. Elsewhere, the injection of funds will

Traceability and the rise of Australian Sapphires

Navneet Gems provides guidance and tips on traceability and the rise of Australian Sapphires in the engagement ring sector for Benchpeg. Sustainable practices, including the issues of tracking and traceability, are gaining momentum in the colored gemstone supply chain. Consumers are increasingly interested in knowing where and how the materials that form their pieces are extracted and manufactured. The truth is unless you have physically gone directly to the mine to view their extraction practices, or know and work with small-scale miners, right now it is challenging to guarantee that gemstones are 100% ethically and sustainably sourced. “Ethically sourced,” “responsible,”

The passing of industry stalwart Chris Sellors

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

Inhorgenta Munich 2020

INHORGENTA MUNICH Messe München, Germany 24 - 27 February 2023 Jewelers are the most important visitor group at INHORGENTA MUNICH, which will host the international watch, jewelry and gemstone industry in Munich from February 24 to 27. How does the retail sector deal with present challenges? We asked Anja Heiden, CEO Jewellery Division and Member of the Board of Wempe in Hamburg/Germany, and Dominik Maegli, Owner of MAEGLI tick different in Solothurn/Switzerland. In late February, INHORGENTA will provide valuable guidance in turbulent times. Despite all the challenges due to the pandemic and current economic developments: “We were rewarded with encouraging

Sarah Ho hosts debut Monaco show at the Hotel Hermitage, Monte Carlo

Jeweller extraordinaire Sarah Ho took over the Salon Jardin d’Hiver at the Hotel Hermitage in her bid to conquer Monte Carlo. Hosting her first exhibition she wowed guests with her new range of gemstone-centred pieces and revealed how she discovered antique pieces and repurposed them into new contemporary designs. The new range is crafted from recycled 18ct gold in Sarah’s exclusive Italian and Austrian workshops. Innovation is one of the key components of the Sarah Ho aesthetic this time entwining colourful elements from an array of materials, such as a unique use of anodised titanium and aluminium alloy, ceramics, enamels

Inhorgenta Munich 2025

INHORGENTA MUNICH 21 - 24 February 2024 Messe München, Germany Munich is the meeting point of the jewelry, watch and gemstone industry. The first INHORGENTA in February 1974 immediately made it into the top 5 industry platforms for trade visitors worldwide. It brings together decision-makers from the entire industry and is a must-attend event for exhibitors and trade visitors. INHORGENTA is your international order platform with all relevant brands for jewelry, watches and gemstones INHORGENTA has the perfect timing for placing your annual order At INHORGENTA you can experience the entire value chain of your market in all its diversity

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

Unleash your Wild Side with Safari Jungle Jewellery

As we head further into the year, jewellery designers are already looking ahead to the warmer climates of Summer and the trends that will roar into the limelight and upgrade our jewellery A-game! The first trend we're shining a spotlight on? Safari-inspired wild animals. Designers have gone wild by bringing some animal magic to our jewellery boxes with a whole host of jungle-inspired animals making their way onto many-a statement pieces. Wildlife collections have taken inspiration from the Savannah with gold snakes and gemstone encrusted crocodiles wrapping their way onto rings and earrings at Alex Monroe and Gucci while diamond-scattered

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

November Birthstones: Topaz & Citrine

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

Introducing the Copenhagen Commitment

Introducing the Copenhagen Commitment Tuesday, 6 February 2024 6 - 7pm UK time Online Ever found yourself navigating the complexities of a responsible supply chain alone? The struggle to trace each gemstone, diamond, and gram of precious metals can be daunting. Copenhagen Commitment understands the challenge—there are no easy answers. It's a movement committed to shaking up the status quo and reshaping the jewellery supply chain. Built on expertise, connections, passion, and perseverance, this movement is about creating a real, positive impact. We aren’t here to give you easy answers, as they don’t exist in most cases. Copenhagen Commitment is

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

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

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

Gemfields launches ‘Every Piece Unique’ global campaign to highlight responsibly sourced coloured gemstones

Gemfields launches ‘Every Piece Unique’ global campaign to highlight responsibly sourced coloured gemstones Gemfields, the world’s leading supplier of responsibly sourced coloured gemstones, has launched a global advertising campaign with Gutenberg Global and adam&eveDDB in order to raise awareness of responsible sourcing in the coloured gemstone industry and promote Zambian emeralds and Mozambican rubies. Gemfields believes that coloured gemstones should be mined and marketed by championing three key values [youtube url=http://youtu.be/gOuvHIlYlVo] – transparency, integrity and legitimacy – and seeks to challenge itself and the sector by setting new benchmarks for responsible sourcing. The campaign was designed to bring

Go Bold, Go Big, Go Beautiful

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

Fei Liu’s IJL Sales Up 15% for 2018

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

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

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

Gemfields and Fabergé Unveil Laser Inscribed Emerald

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

Fei Liu Fine Jewellery introduce new silver Magnolia collection at IJL

Award winning brand Fei Liu Fine Jewellery have taken the natural beauty of the cat’s eye gemstone to offer a capsule range, which will be exclusive to their retailer partners. The Magnolia collection is a modern take on the namesake oriental flower. Floral motifs are largely epitomised across the eponymous designer Fei Liu’s jewellery. For this collection Liu sought inspiration from his art background and his love of oriental flowers. One painting that caught his eye was the ‘Almond Blossom’ by Vincent van Gogh. The painting not only uses understated colours and oriental flowers to allure the eyes, but also

Garnet for Those January Birth Babies

With the start of a new year and a new month puts one of the most beautiful birthstones in the gemstone limelight. For those of you who are lucky enough to be born in the month of January, you are gifted with the kaleidoscopic birthstone of garnet. Garnet is a term used to describe a group of closely related silicate minerals which together produce a painter's palette variety of colour. Even today, garnet remains to be the one mineral that displays the largest variety of colour, making it a popular choice across the jewellery industry. 'Garnet' comes from the Middle

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

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

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

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

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

Diamonds Are Forever

Happy birthday month to all you April babies out there! With Spring in full swing and summer fashion trends ready to ring-a-ding-ding, the diamond dazzles as queen bee in this months gemstone spotlight! Owing to their superior robust structure, remarkable luster and beautiful crystal lattice patterns reflecting and refracting light spectrums, the diamond sparkles with a hidden beauty of intrigue and desirable finery. Diamonds are not only a notoriously ancient coveted treasure of the wealthy elite but it is highly loved many gemmologosts for being one of the only gemstones made entirely from one element- carbon. Owing to its isometric

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

GIA Develops Free Gem Guide for Artisanal Miners

The GIA (Gemological Institute of America), working with nonprofit international development organization Pact, have recently launched a pilot study to test a new rough gem guide. The guide was developed specifically to offer basic gemological and market knowledge for artisanal miners in gem-producing regions. The illustrated booklet, available in English and Tanzanian Swahili, was distributed to approximately 45 women miners in the Tanga region of Tanzania. “This project is at the very core of GIA’s mission,” said GIA President and CEO Susan Jacques. “We are moving practical gemstone education as far up the supply chain as possible, to people who

The New Trend: 3D Scanning for Jewellery

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

The New Trend: 3D Scanning for Jewellery

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

Gem-A Announce New Platinum Sponsors of 2016 Conference

Gem-A have announce that Jewelry Television have signed up as Platinum Sponsors of the 2016 Gem-A Conference. One of the leading retailers of jewellery and gemstones in the United States, JTV have been instrumental in making gems household names in over 86 million American homes, cultivating a new market of gemstone lovers and buyers. JTV’s support of Gem-A reiterates a long friendship between the two associations which began in 2012. Alan Hart, Gem-A CEO, said of the partnership, “We are thrilled to have JTV on board as Platinum Sponsors again. Their support will enable us to bring quality international speakers

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

Nude Jewellery Celebrates 20 Years of Successful Business

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