We’re thrilled to announce the details of an exciting new project with UKFCG-certified Advance Cutter Martin Prinsloo of Martin’s Gems.

A testament to his unwavering commitment to nurturing talent, Martin has generously provided our Level 5 Jewellery Design and Manufacturing students with access to his meticulously hand-cut gemstones, including stunning varieties such as Rhodolite Garnet, Lavender Quartz and Topaz.

Each learner is entrusted with one of these masterfully crafted gemstones, which must serve as the focal point for their upcoming jewellery design. This project offers BAJ’s aspiring jewellers an extremely rare opportunity to create a piece of jewellery that not only captivates with innovative design and manufacturing skills but also pays homage to Martin’s extraordinary skill in the art of stone cutting.

Martin’s Gems is an innovative and highly creative precision gem-cutting London-based business. Having previously worked with BAJ as a sponsor for ‘Precision and Technical Excellence’ and ‘Statement Jewellery’ Awards, they are now taking their partnership to the next level. 

Martin is graciously sponsoring BAJ’s Level 5 Jewellery diploma students by providing them each with a beautiful exquisitely cut gemstone, which was cut in-house in unique shapes, forms, and designs.

On the project, Martin said “To make it interesting and challenging all ten stones are of different colour, species, size and cut design. All are fairly big gemstones between 10-14mm on average and polished to perfection. The brief to the students was that the gems should be the focal point of the design. The design should accentuate and compliment the gem design, cut, colour and shape. The idea is to simulate the exposure to the students of making a statement piece for a high-end customer which will prepare them better for the trade after graduation.”

Martin commented on his motive for taking part in this project, explaining: “Over the years, I noticed that the students really do make exceptional jewellery pieces but they often encounter the issue of low student budgets – meaning they can’t afford or source top-end high-quality gemstones for that final finishing of their pieces.

Hopefully, by filling that missing link with beautiful Martin’s Gems, these students will be able to not only make exceptional pieces but also be able to position themselves better to walk into the trade after graduation”.

The brief set to this cohort is to design and manufacture a distinctive piece of jewellery that showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of Martin’s exceptional gemstone-cutting skills. This project aims to highlight the beauty and uniqueness of a carefully selected gemstone through an innovative and professionally crafted jewellery piece.

This could include but is not limited to rings, necklaces, brooches or bracelets. The goal is to produce a one-of-a-kind jewellery item that not only highlights Martin’s stone-cutting prowess but also stands as a testament to the artisan’s individual style and vision.

“This collaboration encourages students to showcase their creativity and technical prowess, transcending traditional boundaries in design and manufacturing. By harnessing their individual strengths and interests, each learner is poised to craft a unique and extraordinary masterpiece, destined to become a standout addition to their professional portfolio upon completion of the Level 5 Diploma with BAJ”, said Lily Henderson (Jewellery Diploma Coordinator) went on to further explain the benefits, “This partnership not only amplifies Martin’s passion and generosity in fostering the next generation of jewellers but also enhances our learner’s learning experience and provides them with a rare opportunity to work with exceptional gemstones, setting the stage for their entry into the industry. We eagerly await the unveiling of the breathtaking creations that will emerge from this collaboration between Martin’s Gems and BAJ.”

Another in a long list of BAJ’s groundbreaking partnerships, this live project allows students to gain valuable experience designing and creating to a professional industry brief. This chance to gain real-world industry experience is one aspect of BAJ’s education model that sets it apart from other training institutions. 

Click here to learn about our other partnerships, and here to find out more about our Jewellery courses.