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Sweet Sentiments in Dior's Latest Fine Jewellery Collections

Signs, symbols and icons reside at the very heart of the Dior brand. In her collections, Victoire de Castellane revisits some of those most precious to the man who started a fashion revolution. The story of Dior begins with a star and a “yes”, so the story goes… …While walking up the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Christian Dior hit his foot on an object on the ground and almost tripped, as though it was the object itself that wished to attract his attention. Christian Dior leaned over and picked up the object that had nearly made him fall over: it [youtube

De Vroomen: Harmony in Colour and Form

De Vroomen: Harmony in Colour and Form The Goldsmiths’ Company is delighted to present  De Vroomen: Harmony in Colour and Form,  a celebration of five decades of artistic collaboration between renowned husband and wife team, Dutch goldsmith Leo de Vroomen and British jewellery designer and artist Ginnie de Vroomen. The showcase brings together over 100 pieces of De Vroomen jewels, sketches reflecting the creative process, as well as Ginnie’s vivid paintings inspired by nature and the urban landscape. In essence, bold, sophisticated jewellery with flowing lines is placed in conversation with polychromatic abstract art.  When Leo and Ginnie started working together in the early 70s, they developed

De Vroomen Silver Festival - London

An exhibition at the prestigious showroom of De Vroomen in London’s Belgravia. Showcasing the work of some of the UK’s finest silversmiths. 26th November to 24th December 2016 De Vroomen 59 Elizabeth Street London SW1W 9PP devroomen.co.uk

Q&A: Gianluca De Girolamo

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

‘De Vroomen Harmony in Colour and Form’ Book

Dutch Master Craftsman and goldsmith Leo de Vroomen has released a book, full of illustrations, which celebrates 50 years of his creative partnership with his artist / designer wife Ginnie. Their bold and colourful jewellery is lavishly illustrated, in combination with Ginnie's vivid paintings. The book also acts as an accompanying tome to the retrospective exhibition of their work recently held at Goldsmiths’ Hall. The book is available at a cost of £50 plus postage & packing Publisher: Leo and Ginnie de Vroomen Page size: landscape 280 X 230 mm Pagination: 224 hardback ISBN 978-1-5272-0650-2 P & P: UK £5.00,

Silver Speaks: Silversmithing Demonstration with Rebecca De Quin

Contemporary British Silversmiths is partnering with the V&A, the London Design Festival and the Goldsmiths' Centre to deliver a series of exciting events to promote silver in contemporary life. Over nine days in September, the London Design Festival features hundreds of events taking place across London, showcasing the city's pivotal role in global design. The London Design Festival 2016 will be held 17-25 September. Silversmithing Demonstration: Rebecca De Quin Acclaimed silversmith and Royal College of Art tutor  Rebecca de Quin , will be demonstrating her technique of quilting silver to create her unique pieces. Come along to the V&A’s Silver Galleries throughout

De Beers nail colours to the synthetic diamond mast with Lightbox launch

Man-made diamonds might not be forever but they are for long enough to persuade De Beers to part with millions and millions to capitalise on the growing demand worldwide for cheaper, traceable stones. De Beers have in fact been producing lab-grown diamonds for years but only industrialists will have been familiar with their products, since they have been used only in equipment for mining and drilling and making semiconductors.  Using them for jewellery was a step too far, they maintained, and they were vocal in their reluctance to go down the synthetic path. Until now that is. This week, they

Fei Liu to Launch 'Rayon de Miel': A Collection As Sweet As Honey

Internationally acclaimed jewellery designer Fei Liu is set to captivate the trade industry with the launch of his latest fine jewellery collection,  Rayon de Miel . Scheduled for unveiling to retailer partners in September 2024, this exquisite collection draws inspiration from the intricate geometry of honeycombs, merging innovation with nature's elegance. Rayon de Miel  showcases an array of gold designs, each meticulously crafted to highlight an extraordinary hexagon-cut laboratory-grown diamond. These diamonds, nestled within bezel honeycomb settings, embody the blend of modernity and artistry that Fei Liu is celebrated for. The collection is available in 9ct white gold, yellow gold,

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

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

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

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

Christie's Unveils the Collection of Warhol Muse, Barbara Allen De Kwiatkowski

“Barbara holds the keys to the other side of the amazingly enormous Warhol story. She was there for all the great statements of Andy’s for years before she cared. She was completely innocent, and she literally saw and heard everything and didn’t give a damn. She had the most naïve and unspoiled eye of any human to enter Manhattan.” – Peter Beard  Christie’s has announced that it has been entrusted with The Collection of Barbara Allen de Kwiatkowski, which will be offered across eight sales, beginning in New York this December with Post-War & Contemporary Art, Impressionist and Modern Art,

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

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

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,

Announcing the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize 2024 finalists

LOEWE FOUNDATION announces the 30 artists shortlisted for the 2024 edition of the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize. The finalists’ works will be exhibited at Palais de Tokyo in Paris from 15 May until 9 June 2024. The works selected for the LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize shortlist will go on display at Palais de Tokyo in Paris from 15 May to 9 June 2024. Many of the works repurpose found or recycled materials and there is a focus on the elevation and transformation of the everyday, such as rubber tyres and compressed wood, which are not traditionally associated with craft. A

BIJORHCA PARIS 2017

Must-attend event for all professionals, BIJORHCA PARIS is the only international trade show dedicated exclusively to Jewellery, Watches and Technical Industries in France. It welcomes almost 400 exhibitors and brands, including 50% internationals from over 30 countries, gathered to showcase their collections to about 14 000 buyers, including 35% internationals from 100 countries. Venue 1 Place de la Porte de Versailles 75015 Paris France www.bijorhca.com

Chaumet and Dior Joaillerie present new high jewellery collections

Chaumet and Dior Joaillerie took advantage of this month’s haute couture shows in Paris to unveil their new high jewellery collections. Chaumet drew inspiration from far-off lands for its  Promenades Impériales  collection, while Dior’s  Pièces Secrètes  collection is an homage to French art de vivre and the Château de Versailles. Chaumet has since its founding nurtured close bonds with the creativity of far-off lands and their culture, inspiring some of the Maison’s most stunning jewellery pieces.  Entitled Les Mondes de Chaumet, new high jewellery collection revolves around three precious moments – January, June and July.  The first chapter in the

Liu Yifei wears Chaumet for the premiere of Mulan in Los Angeles

This week in Los Angeles, on the occasion of the premiere of Mulan, directed by Niki Caro, Liu Yifei, ambassador of the Maison, was wearing the Nuages d’Or earrings from the High Jewellery collection Les Ciels de Chaumet, as well as a ring from the High Jewellery collection Soir de Fête. Ambassador of Maison Chaumet in China, Liu Yifei is one of the leading actresses of her generation. Sharing with the Maison the same vision of elegance, the Chinese-American actress personifies the contemporary femininity of Chaumet jewellery creations.   Author:  Published: 

Milano Jewelery Tour 2023

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

Winners Announced - JOYA Awards Ceremony 2020

The JOYA awards ceremony, was held at “Artesanía Catalunya de la Generalitat”, where it was awarded the best individual artists and students, who despite the current circumstances have created collections with a high level of design. The JOYA awards ceremony, was held at “Artesanía Catalunya de la Generalitat”, where it was awarded the best individual artists and students, who despite the current circumstances have created collections with a high level of design. Respecting the government's recommendations, the awards ceremony was online, bringing together the artists and followers of JOYA worldwide, chaired by Paulo Ribeiro, Director of the Fair and accompanied

Chaumet launch ‘Chaumet In The Sky’ app

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

British Fashion Council Premieres Film Commissions

The British Fashion Council’s Fashion Arts Foundation has premiered two short films, by two female directors, putting British fashion at the heart of the narrative. This commission saw Jessica de Rothschild’s debut as film director and Anissa Bonnefont’s third directorial endeavour.  Both films were made possible by The Peninsula Hotels. Screening at BAFTA to an audience of industry informers alongside fashion and film students, the films showcase the international language of British fashion. Reflections of Hollywood Scriptwriter and Director Jessica de Rothschild sought inspiration from old school Hollywood to weave a tale of modern, magical glamour. Filmed at the Peninsula

Metal Scapes - Studio Fusion Gallery, London

Metal Scapes  will open for London Craft Week, featuring works by fine jeweller Daphne Krinos alongside silversmith and jeweller Tamar de Vries Winter and silversmith Rebecca de Quin . Curated by Brian Kennedy and hosted by Studio Fusion Gallery , beneath the Oxo Tower, the exhibition presents 'landscapes of metal' from the handcrafted jewellery and silverware by the three designers; using, exploring and reflecting the architectural themes of the work. Daphne presents pieces from her City Series and unveils new compositions inspired by cityscapes and architectural forms. Metal Scapes Dates 5 - 7 May 2017 Open 11.00am - 6.00pm Venue

Spirit of Christmas, Studio Fusion Gallery - London

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

Dorothea Prühl & Otto Künzli - Noam Elyashiv - David Clarke - Tore Svensson- Galerie Marzee

Dorothea Prühl & Otto Künzli - Noam Elyashiv - David Clarke - Tore Svensson - Galerie Marzee Galerie Marzee  presents: Dorothea Prühl (DE) & Otto Künzli (DE)  So Near – So Far Noam Elyashiv (US) David Clarke (UK) Altar’d Tore Svensson (SE) Dorothea Prühl & Otto Künzli So Near – So Far So near. Dorothea Prühl and Otto Künzli, each in their own way, break with conventional ideas but nevertheless they move within the framework of the established rules of wearable jewellery. So far. The artistic concepts of Dorothea Prühl and Otto Künzli could not be more different. Noam Elyashiv

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

Call for Applications: Abattoirs

Call for Applications: Be Craft AbbattoirsExhibition 23 November 2025 → 22 February 2026 BeCraft, Rue de la Trouille 17, 7000 Mons, Belgium 20 years already since BeCraft has settled down in the stables of the Anciens Abattoirs in Mons.  For the occasion, a call for applications to European artists is launched for an exhibition on the theme of abattoirs. All disciplines in the applied arts are invited: ceramics, glass, textiles, wood, paper, jewellery, furniture, accessories, craft design, etc. The call for application is open to all creators residing in a member country of the European Union’s Customs Union: Açores, Austria,

Former National Association of Goldsmiths CEO Michael Hoare passes

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

Former National Association of Goldsmiths CEO Michael Hoare passes

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

A History of Coronation Dress and Jewels

Talk: Ceremony And Splendour A History Of Coronation Dress And Jewels Clothworrkes’ Hall, London Monday, 6th March 2023 The Creative Dimension Trust (TCDT) will host a talk on coronations in the elegant surroundings of Clothworrkes’ Hall on Monday 6th March, with Caroline de Guitaut, Deputy Surveyor of The King’s Works of Art 100% of the proceeds will go towards TCDT's fully funded workshops, taught by craft specialists, for 14-19-year-olds who wish to develop their hand skills.  Focussing on the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, the lecture will explore the origins, design and evolution of Coronation dress and jewels – from richly embroidered fashionable

BIJORHCA PARIS 2020

BIJORHCA PARIS Paris Expo - Porte de Versailles, France 17 - 20 Junauary 2020 At BIJORHCA PARIS you will discover new products, services, innovations…  and ensure you are always on top of the latest trends! From fashion, fine jewellery and watches, through to raw materials, technical industries, packaging and services,  you will receive a complete 360 offer. BIJORHCA PARIS is also a must-attend for networking and business meetings, with special events and features, a trends area, competitions, workshops and much more…  Dates From Friday 17 to Monday 20 January 2020 Hours From January 17 to 19 from 9:30 a.m. to

Bishopsland announces the opening of its new HQ

Bishopsland announces the opening of its exciting new home for professional training and partnership with the National Trust’s Heritage and Rural Skills Centre Bishopsland has successfully completed the first phase of its relocation to Buscot and Coleshill and a new partnership with the National Trust’s Heritage and Rural Skills Centre, marking an exciting milestone in its journey.  Bishopsland Educational Trust have disclosed to Benchpeg that they are thrilled to formally announce that their project to relocate and establish a future for silversmithing has been generously supported by the South Square Trust and the De Beers Group. The project is also

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

Highlights of the RCA2023 Show

Last week we ventured into the wilds of Battersea, London specifically to the (new to us) campus for Jewellery, Goldsmithing, Metalwork and Jewellery at the Royal College of Art for the 2023 Show. The show, split over two levels, also had a mixture of glass and ceramics on display. Here are our highlights of the now one year MA cohort. Machi de Waard I make my modernist silver and gold jewellery at my studio in Reading, Berkshire, where I’ve been working for more than 15 years. From January 2010 to December 2011, I was Jeweller in Residence at South Hill

Silver Jewellery Making

Silver Jewellery Making by Machi de Waard & Janet Richardson A beginner's step-by-step guide to creating beautiful silver jewellery. Silver Jewellery Making  is a practical beginners’ guide to making silver jewellery. Seven step-by-step projects guide you through the core skills and techniques that will enable you to progress to making your own beautiful jewellery. The tried-and-tested projects have been developed by Machi and Janet, who have over 40 years of industry experience teaching others this amazing craft. The emphasis is on teaching good practice and acquiring the basic techniques and skills to give the reader a solid basis for developing their

Vanilla Ink The Smiddy Creates San Martín Quaich

Banff silversmithing and jewellery school, Vanilla Ink The Smiddy are delighted to announce the creation of the José de San Martín Quaich. The North East social enterprise, which opened in 2018, was commissioned by Friends of Duff House to create a gift to present to the Argentine Ambassador during the bicentennial celebrations of the South American General’s visit to Banff in 1824. San Martín, known as “the Liberator of Argentina, Chile and Peru”, is a true national hero in his home country, whose name and image stir emotions and feelings of pride. Scott McIntyre, founding Director of The Smiddy, explained:

BAFF: 2 Films about Jewelry

BAFF: 2 Films about Jewelry   15.11.2024 → 24.11.2024 Brussels In collaboration with BeCraft on the occasion of the MAESTRIA exhibition, the Brussels Art Film Festival is programming two films on jewelry. Hunter from Elsewhere - A Journey with Helen Britton Director: Elena Alvarez Lutz Production: W-films DE / 2021 / 97 minutes / VO in German with French subtitles German director  Elena Alvarez Lutz accompanies  Australian jewelry designer Helen Britton on her  mental and concrete wanderings  .  From  Australia  to  Germany  , the question of the gaze guides the journey. Portrait of a fascinating huntress  from  elsewhere.     Talk

Q&A: Liz Olver

Liz Olver is currently Design Director at Annoushka, based out of their flagship store and building on Cadogan Gardens, Chelsea. Previous to this, she was Designer at Links of London, both companies founded by Annoushka Ducas MBE. Liz is an author of three jewellery making titles, has worked as Product Development Manager at De Beers LV, has run her own jewellery label and was for many years a Senior Lecturer at Central Saint Martin’s College of Art and Design on the BA Hons Jewellery Design course. She has an MA from the Royal College of Art and a degree in

Building Your Craft Industry Network and Starting Conversations

Building Your Craft Industry Network and Starting Conversations   6 November 2019 The Goldsmiths' Centre, London Broadening your circle of contacts and networking is crucial to developing your profile and practice, but it can be a daunting process. Start today and join us as we bring together practitioners from across the industry, including blacksmiths and silversmiths, to launch Birmingham City University’s new e-book Making Form: Contemporary British Fine Metalwork. The evening will feature introductions to the topic by industry professionals, Rebecca de Quin and Lucy Quinnell, helping you to understand how they pushed beyond their comfort zone and forged their

Casting Operative, Domino Jewellery - Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham

The role Casting Operative Domino Jewellery  Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham Domino Jewellery (part of Weston Beamor, Heimerle & Meule Group), one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of jewellery has an opportunity for a Casting Operative to join the well-established Casting Team. The successful candidate will work to ensure our casting is of the highest standard. Key responsibilities Work within the team to deliver on time casts of high quality to our customers and workshops Operation of casting machines Investing  Treeing- up  De-vesting  Burn outs Essential Skills 2 Years casting experience Experience of either centrifugal casting or vacuum casting Casting experience of

Casting Operative, Domino Jewellery - Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham

The role Casting Operative Domino Jewellery  Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham Domino Jewellery (part of Weston Beamor, Heimerle & Meule Group), one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of jewellery has an opportunity for a Casting Operative to join the well-established Casting Team. The successful candidate will work to ensure our casting is of the highest standard. Key responsibilities Work within the team to deliver on time casts of high quality to our customers and workshops Operation of casting machines Investing  Treeing- up  De-vesting  Burn outs Essential Skills 2 Years casting experience Experience of either centrifugal casting or vacuum casting Casting experience of

The Goldsmiths’ Centre Business Catalyst (Small) Grants

The Goldsmiths’ Centre in London has awarded four jewellers and silversmiths a Business Catalyst (Small) Grant of £1,000 to accelerate their businesses to the next phase of growth. The grants, funded by philanthropic giving from The Goldsmiths’ Company members to the Goldsmiths’ Company Charity’s 1327 Fund, will help Rebecca Oldfield, Clio Saskia, Natalia Majewska and Aishleen Lester to access essential specialist knowledge, equipment or marketing tools. The winning proposals, which were judged by Bettina Boerner, Head of Manufacturing at De Beers Jewellers, Darren Sherwood, jeweller and designer, and Chris Oliver, Head of Professional Training at The Goldsmiths’ Centre, demonstrated a strong commitment

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

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

Journey into Crystal with L'École Van Cleef & Arpels

Journey into Crystal with L'École Van Cleef & Arpels How much do you know about rock crystal? The "Journey into Crystal" exhibition currently presented at the Musée de Cluny - Musée National du Moyen Âge, where this conference will be filmed, is an incredible opportunity to discover this fascinating, transparent material. Found as far back as 5,000 BC, notably in the form of pearls, rock crystal is the most widespread variety of quartz (hyaline quartz). Its name comes from the Greek word "krustallos" meaning "ice", which has long been attributed to a divine creation, and has contributed to enriching the collective

Bounty of riches for Lucara Diamonds at Karowe

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

Loukia Richards nominated for European Prize for Applied Arts

Loukia Richards has been nominated for this year’s European Prize for Applied Arts within the Jewellery category. The theme of this year’s competition is "Monumentality - Fragility" which pays tribute to the work and life motif of French / Swiss artist Niki de Saint-Phalle. The competition jury, which include Rosy Greenlees the Director of the Crafts Council London ad current President of the WCC-International, and Louise Allen the Director of the Crafts Council Ireland and President of the WCC-Europe, selected eighty nominees from over 600 applications. The nominees' show will open at the Art Museum of Mons in Belgium on

Vintage Garrard pieces, amongst others, to be auctioned at Chorley's Country House sale later this month

Established auction house, Chorley's, will be selling a significant collection of jewellery later this month; belonging to the late Mrs Rook.  Mrs Rook was married to Major Laurence Rook MC at the picturesque Manor Beverston Castle, which was once part of the great lordship Berkeley; taken from Roger de Berkeley by Henry I.  She was a long-standing client of the House of Garrard, the prestigious crown jewellers. The collection on sale features a number of pieces by the House, who also designed the Dutchess of Cambridge's engagement ring.  The prize piece amongst the beautiful collection is a magnificent Victorian diamond-set

Jada Dubai launch £200,000 diamond encrusted shoe

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

Bvlgari’s high jewellery collection ‘Festa’

Bulgari’s summer orientated ‘Festa’ collection is centred around the joy of Italian art de vivre where the Maison have brought together over 100 jewels and high end watches especially created for the collection, that is a homage to the “sense of pure happiness of the Italian Festas”. First launched in June 2017, the collection was presented in Venice, the home town of two Festas which are internationally renowned: the legendary Carnival and the Regatta Storica. The inspiration of the collection steams from Italian life itself - Italy has always been renowned for its spirit of joy, happiness and celebration. Whether

Q&A: Joanna Hardy

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

Laurence Coste opens new store in Sloane Street

Parisian jewellery designer Laurence Coste has recently expanded to Sloane street, following over 10 years of success at her premises on Walton Street. Shortly after opening there in 2006, she became known for her range of unique and colourful clip-on earrings, and the business has grown in strength and popularity ever since, leading to the decision to open this second store.  Born in Paris, Coste spent her childhood in France before moving to Chealsea in the late 80’s. Inspired by none other than Loulou de la Falaise, her passion for jewellery started at a young age when she started designing

Stellar line up set for IJL 2019

Artist jeweller John Moore, The Futurist Paola de Luca, DeBeers, Sotheby’s, Fairtrade Gold, Hilary Alexander OBE and Graduate Fashion Week among stellar IJL 2019 line up IJL,, opens on Sunday 1 September and will welcome some of the biggest brands, cutting-edge designers and the latest in Jewellery and Watch technology and sustainability to the show. IJL’s event programme features designers including: Jeweller of The Fair John Moore @IJL, Monday 2 September: The inaugural Jeweller of The Fair John Moore will show his collection on the IJL Inspires Catwalk Theatre on Monday 2 September (13:45 - 14:30) followed by questions from

Jewellery fashion will be futuristic, multi-cultural and celebrate the power of nature in SS/20, says IJL

International Jewellery London reveals 6 jewellery trends for SS/20 IJL trends editors and jewellery expert, Paola De Luca, has outlined six key jewellery trend themes for Spring-Summer 2020 for International Jewellery London (IJL), the UK’s leading trade event for the international jewellery industry. Her vision includes authentic designs that subvert deep-rooted stereotypes with gender, touches on societal pressure with minimalism and brings to life an organic amalgamation of nineteenth century deco with nature; all the while toying with abstract shapes, futuristic expression and dark jewels. These will be showcased on IJL’s SS20 Trends Catwalk where Paola will present her detailed

International Jewellery London: Inspire Seminar Programme

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

Top female metalsmiths team up for UK campaign

Some of the UK's most distinguished female metalsmiths are set to launch a new campaign to promote the craft in Britain by exhibiting as a collective at the inaugural TRESOR Contemporary Craft in Basel, Switzerland next month. In a pioneering move, the group of award-winning internationally acclaimed artists, including Simone ten Hompel, Rebecca de Quin, Ane Christensen, Adi Toch and Juliette Bigley, will collaborate with a range of individual pieces and a specially made film which focuses on each artist and the craft.  “We’ve worked beside and with each other, shared workshops and taught each other so it is particularly

Jewelry in a Duet

Laura Volpi’s work is a synthesis of energy, research and matter that takes shape through the elaboration of visual stimuli from our contemporaneity, to create jewels that reveal each a different part of her creative storytelling. She conducts an accurate study of volume and a research of the sculptural shape, to create a jewel that explores the boundaries of movement in a wearable dimension writes Ilaria Ruggiero. She was first influenced by Davide De Paoli, who initiated her to the potentialities of plate sculpture, and by Arnaldo Pomodoro, whom she could meet through a scholarship. During the collaboration with Pomodoro, which

Celestial Inspired Jewellery

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

Officine Nora: Preciousness in human relationships

After visiting Officine Nora, the feeling that pervaded me was of an open, free and independent place. Officine Nora is a co-working for jewellery makers and a jewellery shop based in Florence writes Ilaria Ruggiero. It was started in 2014 by the Florentine jewellery designer Margherita de Martino Norante that, after graduating at Alchimia Contemporary Jewellery School, wanted to preserve the practice of comparing ideas and techniques with other jewellery makers in a collaborative and lively environment. A place of creation therefore, but without preconceptions or ideologies. A laboratory certainly directed by professional artists, but especially a space for sharing ideas

Designer Sophie Breitmeyer launches new website

Jewellery designer and maker Sophie Breitmeyer has launched her new website, with the tag line ‘the modern-day family jeweller’. With her ancestry steeped in jewellery heritage, the re-positioning of her brand hails back to days gone by when families had one go-to trusted family jeweller. The website is clean, bright and owns a photomontage appeal reflecting her own modernity in jewellery design and style, and acts as both an ecommerce site as well as offering a comprehensive portfolio of work to commission and work up bespoke designs from. Breitmeyer’s great-grandfather was one of the founding members of De Beers, and

Emerge / Jiro Kamata

Emerge / Jiro Kamata (JP-DE) Artist statement Light and reflection are always an important topic for my work which has very strong relationship with jewellery. “Bl” brooches and pendants These pieces are made using dichroic mirror, which reflects two different colours. This material is used in optical applications and architecture. I was fascinated by its unusual colour reflections and knew immediately that I wanted to make jewellery with it.  It is not only about the two colours but also about the openness of perception. „Palette“ brooches Wearing one, you see strong, colourful shadows on the white corian base. The shape of

Christmas Shine with Andrew Geoghegan

Yet again Andrew Geoghegan has presented the luxury consumer with a well heeled choice of delectable jewels this Christmas. The designer has curated his collections to provide a seasonal choice for the most magical time of year. For the cocktail season his flamboyant ode to Versailles, the Chapiteau Paraiba, with its lavish flurry of pink sapphires, aquamarines and pristine diamonds with a distinctive hexagonal setting is the hero piece of the hour.  The Clair de Lune ring with a unique shape, playfully tricking the eye, allows light to bounce from every facet. Set with white diamonds, sapphires, chocolate coloured diamonds or

Merci Maman Awarded Prestigious Queen's Award for Enterprise

Second royal seal of approval for London-based French mumpreneur. The personalised jewellery brand – worn by the Duchess of Cambridge – receives the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category. Merci Maman, the personalised jewellery company founded by a London mum from her kitchen table, has been awarded the prestigious Queen's Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category and its founder will receive the award from the Queen at a Buckingham Palace Reception. Merci Maman was founded by mother of four Béatrice de Montille in Fulham, London, in 2007. She now works with a team of 22

Rebecca Hannon: Contemporary Camouflage

Contemporary Camouflage is Rebecca Hannon’s latest project, one she has developed during two months residency at Studio Rian de Jong, in Amsterdam. Interested in the concepts of concealing and revealing, which stem from the notion of camoiuflage, the artist presents a series of brooches, chignon covers, earrings and necklaces, the result of a paradoxical exploration in the field of contemporary jewellery.  Camouflage means “to blend into”, to conceal oneself in one’s surroundings so as to protect oneself, to go unnoticed, or to become a predator in order to survive. Coloration is the principal form camouflage takes in nature. Adapted by

British Fashion Council Announce New Rock Vault Line-Up

The British Fashion Council (BFC) is pleased to announce the six Rock Vault jewellers who will display their latest collections during London Fashion Week September 2016. The jewellers will showcase their work in an installation in the Designer Showrooms at Brewer Street Car Park.   For 2016/17 new recipients Daou Jewellery and Frances Wadsworth Jones join existing Rock Vault designers COMPLETEDWORKS, Lily Kamper, Rachel Boston and Shimell and Madden. This year Ana de Costa, Beth Gilmour, Jacqueline Cullen, Ornella Iannuzzi, RUIFIER and Yunus and Eliza all graduate from the initiative. Previous Rock Vault recipients include: Alice Cicolini, Fernado Jorge, Hannah

Daphne Krinos Wins Ambassador Diamond Necklace Commission

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

The 8th edition of SalonQP up 7.4% on Visitor Numbers

Curated by Telegraph Events, SalonQP returned to the Saatchi Gallery for its eighth edition in the first week of November. The show attracted over 6,500 watch aficionados, with paid for attendance up 7.4% and brands seeing a windfall of sales across the three-day event. Visitors came to acquire some of the finest timepieces currently made, from established names such as Girard-Perregaux, Chopard and Bremont to leading independent brands like MB&F, Garrick and F.P. Journe. Launch brands included Atelier de Chronomètrie, Fears, JR Bespoke Timepieces and Vault Watches. SalonQP 2016 was the event’s sixth year at the Saatchi Gallery and eighth

VOICE - Vicenzaoro International Community Event

VOICE - Vicenzaoro International Community Event Vicenza Expo Centre 12-14 September 2020 Trendvision Jewellery + Forecasting , the first independent Observatory created by Italian Exhibition Group (IEG) that specializes in jewellery forecasting, presents the much-awaited volume during the live event TV TALK – PREDICTIONS @ VOICE – A Forecasting Event | Presenting Seasons 2022, the seminar scheduled for Monday, 14 September at 2.30 pm, organized into three sessions: Emerging Phenomena, Jewellery Panorama and Forecast 2022. On The Stage of Voice, the interactive stage set up in the heart of Hall 7,  the event’s presenters and moderators during the talk-show, Paola De Luca, Founder and Creative Director of Trendvision Jewellery + Forecasting, and David Brough, Founder

Dine

Dine Dine  is an exhibition of craft that sits on the dining table. Running along side The Goldsmiths’ Company exhibition  Made for the Table,  this supporting showcase brings together a large selection of stunning pieces in silver, ceramic, glass and textiles. Included are pieces by many of the makers’ that appear in the Goldsmiths’ show, and all available to purchase. Benefield Spencer Glass Angela Cork Richard Fox Hampson Woods Miriam Hanid Rauni Higson Kyosun Jung Nan Nan Liu Michael Lloyd Ptolemy Mann Alison Morton Shannon O’Neill Pottery West Sue Pryke Rebecca de Quin Adam Ross Jill Shaddock Jane Short Adi Toch Arjan Van Dal Vezzini & Chen Yusuke Yamamoto.

Creative Stars Join London Craft Week at Official Opening

This week more than 500 artists, designers, makers, artisans, collectors and patrons of craft descended on the V&A to celebrate the beginning of London Craft Week 2017, which takes place across London from 3 - 7 May. Notable guests in attendance on the night included Hussein Chalayan, Johnny Coca, Tom Dixon, Stephen Jones OBE, Bill Amberg, Lady Carol Bamford and Azzi Glasser plus various international stars including Korean artist Do Ho Suh, Hong Kong designer Elaine Yan Ling Ng and third generation Spanish guitar maker, Felipe Conde.  Award-winning fashion designer Hussein Chalayan presented acclaimed potter Edmund de Waal with the