Category: Designer Jewellery

1. Interview with....Jane Gowans

   Posted on 11:15am Monday 20th Jun 2011

   

   Jane Gowans is a fantastic new Scottish designer we are exhibiting in Nude.  Her work is visually stimulating, simple and stylish and she believes in wearing accessories that you absolutely love.  With The Matchstick collection, Jane has taken an ordinary object and turned it into an extraordinary piece of wearable art.

   What's your background and what inspired you to become a jewellery designer?

   I graduated in 2009 with a First Class Honours Degree in Jewellery & Metal Design and have since set up my own practice, which has gone from strength to strength.

   I was inspired to become a jewellery designer because of its tactile, 3-dimensional construction. I love all the different texture and form possibilities. I also enjoy being able to deliver a product which brings joy to other people and can perhaps be passed down from generation to generation.

   How would you describe your customers?

   My customers enjoy quality, luxury and elegance. My jewellery appeals to both men and women from 25-75. My work has a subtle fashion aesthetic and has been used by stylists, press and music industry.

   What is your favourite piece of jewellery? (either made or purchased)

   I am really enjoying my current work and am excited to be working on some limited edition ‘Bessie’ rings which will be available to buy soon.

   Which celebrity would you love to wear your jewellery and why?

   I would like to see the incredibly intelligent and slightly cheeky Louis Theroux wear a set of Jane Gowans cufflinks.

   If you hadnt been successful as a designer what would your plan B have been?

   I’m not sure. I imagine my passion for creativity would have lead to another expressive career. I am keen pianist and singer so perhaps a shot at being a rock and roll icon... or maybe not?

   What can we expect to see from you in the future?

   My S/S ’12 collection is scheduled for release in the autumn. It is a progression into cutting edge technologies, hand finishing and stone setting resulting in pieces that are striking, elegant and high quality.

   

    

2. London Jewellery Week 2011

   Posted on 12:31pm Monday 13th Jun 2011

   What a week! If you missed out on London Jewellery Week here's a quick round-up of what Nude Jewellery was able to attend.............

    We kicked off on Thursday at trade-day for Treasure. Arriving bright and early we were just in time for the Elizabeth Galton breakfast interview. She had some great advice for independent retailers and we were inspired by the story of her journey in jewellery, starting when she appeared on the first series of the Dragon's Den. Walking around the show we were blown away by the incredible talent of the designers, we had a look at some potential new designers for Nude.....keep your eyes on the website for updates and news of any new designers exhibiting in store! Special thanks to William Cheshire who was an absolute joy to speak with and young, alternative designer Kate Gilliland, whose work is not for the faint hearted but we loved it!

    Fantastic to see some of our designers at the show. Laura Gravestock looked great, and kindly posed for this picture!

    

    Rachel Galley's stand really stood out from the crowd,

    

    We managed to catch-up with all our designers at Treasure and view some new work which will feature in store and online soon – excitement!

    We had time for a quick change and back out to Goldsmiths Hall where Stephen Webster was taking part in the second 'day of knowledge' by giving a talk on the journey of his career to-date. Listening to Stephen talk about his career with humour and passion was a fabulous experience. His love of gemstones was apparent throughout and we'd love to visit the 'no regrets' bar above his store in Rodeo drive!

    Friday saw us visiting Old Spitalfields market for the Jewel East exhibition where innovative, new designers were showcasing new collections and unusual design work in the famous historic surrounding. We couldn't resist a stroll round the market but after picking up some trinkets we had to leave before spending too much!

    Finishing up on Saturday with a leisurely stroll through the Hatton Garden festival. With a British heritage theme and supported by some fantastic names this was a great street party with amazing food, live music and of course incredible jewellery!

    All in all a great week for Jewellery!