BAJ Podcast | Re-framings with Carla Movia
What does jewellery remember, and what shapes its meaning? In this episode of the BAJ Podcast, Sofie Boons is joined by jewellery artist Carla Movia to explore how objects can act as patient holders of stories. Through experimental uses of technique and materials, from filigree to sugar and found plastic components, Carla’s practice re‑frames discarded […]
BAJ Podcast | Fair Min(e)d with Saskia Shutt
In this episode of the BAJ Podcast, Sofie Boons speaks with jeweller and ethical‑making advocate Saskia Shutt. Rooted in a practice shaped by transparency and responsibility, Saskia is a Fairmined‑licensed maker whose work directly supports artisanal mining communities and promotes traceable, positive sourcing. Beyond her own bench, she is an active contributor to groups such […]
BAJ Podcast | A Tucson Gathering with Brienne Rosner
This episode takes you on location in Tucson, Arizona, to the vibrant world of the Tucson Gem and Mineral Showcase. We’re joined by Brienne Rosner, Executive Director of the Society of North American Goldsmiths (SNAG). She shares insights into the organisation’s mission, its dedication to contemporary jewellery, and its longstanding presence at this internationally acclaimed […]
BAJ Podcast | Fragments of the Antarctic with Katrin Linse
Inspiration often comes from the world around us. But what if your context is the Antarctic, one of the most remote and fragile ecosystems on Earth? In this episode of the BAJ Podcast, Sofie Boons speaks with Dr Katrin Linse, marine biologist with the British Antarctic Survey and jewellery maker whose work bridges science, art, […]
BAJ Podcast | Applied Sustainability with Anna McLoughlin
In this episode, Sofie interviews Anna McLoughlin, a jewellery designer and maker, who creates sculptural, ethical pieces in her off-grid Eco Studio. Anna explains how she integrates ethical values into her business while managing the complexities of responsible sourcing and production. They explore the importance of transparency and the opportunities for innovation that emerge when […]
BAJ Alumni Cece Fein-Hughes Achieves International Jewellery Recognition
BAJ alumna Cece Fein-Hughes launched Cece Jewellery in 2022. Recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30 and shortlisted for the 2026 Jewelers of America GEMS Award.
From Passion to Profession: How Selina Yang Transformed Her Jewellery Dreams at BAJ
Selina (Mingjie) Yang, originally from China, was awarded the prestigious UK Global Talent Visa (Exceptional Promise) in Fashion Design, enabling her to continue building her jewellery career in London, a dream seven years in the making. Determined to sharpen her design and making skills, Selina enrolled at the British Academy of Jewellery and brought her […]
Pride Month Spotlight: A Glimpse Into The History Of LGBTQ+ Jewellery
Love comes in many forms and to celebrate Pride month, we can look at how people have expressed their identity and romance through jewellery. Historically, same sex relationships have not always been kindly received. Falling in love with someone of the same sex could lead to social disapproval at best, and at worst, a prison […]
Pride Month Student Spotlight: Alana Sweet
We’re thrilled to share this inspiring Pride Month Q+A with emerging artist Alana Sweet (she/her), BA (Hons) Jewellery Design and Production final-year student, and creator of the double Venus ‘Sapphic Ring‘. Read below to learn all about this iconic piece’s origins, Alana’s complex creative background, and her advice for fellow artists! Hey Alana! Can you […]
Pride Month Student Spotlight: Reem Grwan
Kicking off our Pride Month series for 2025, this Q+A is with BAJ student Reem Grwan (she/her), exploring life at BAJ, being an LGBTQ+ artist, and advice for fellow creatives! Can you please tell us about your journey as a creative/Jeweller so far? My journey as a creative goes way back than my journey as […]
Best of The Met Gala 2025: Superfine Tailoring and Dazzling Jewels
Co-chaired by Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Pharrell Williams, and honourary chairs LeBron James and Anna Wintour, the 2025 Met Gala was themed around their upcoming exhibit ‘Superfine: Tailoring Black Style’. An opulent celebration of black designers and exquisite tailoring, the dress-code ‘Tailored for You’ challenged guests to honour the evolution of menswear and […]
How to use UCAS Extra and Clearing to find a course 2025
Are you keen to begin studying a degree this September and figuring out your options? Follow our FAQ to navigate UCAS Extra and Clearing to apply for the right course for you. What is UCAS Extra and how do I apply? UCAS Extra gives you the chance to keep applying to higher education courses after […]
Staff Spotlight: Rayvenn Shaleigh D’Clark – Associate Lecturer, BA (Hons) Jewellery Design & Production
We’re thrilled to spotlight one of our incredibly talented team members here at BAJ: Rayvenn Shaleigha D’Clark, Associate Lecturer in Critical and Historical Studies. As a key member of our creative staff, Rayvenn brings a unique blend of artistic vision and academic depth to her role. She teaches on the BA (Hons) Jewellery Design & […]
Dr. Sofie Boons Unveils ‘Neo-Gemstones’ Exhibition at Munich Jewellery Week 2025
Dr. Sofie Boons, course leader for the BA (Hons) Jewellery Design & Production at BAJ, brought her pioneering research to the international stage with her presentation at Munich Jewellery Week 2025. Running from the 11th to the 15th of March, the prestigious event welcomed leading voices in contemporary jewellery, with Dr. Boons’ thought-provoking exhibition, Neo-gemstones@Gabriele […]
BAJ Podcast Recap – Ep.65 Neo-gemstones
BAJ Podcast summary Sofie is joined by Daniel Rytz, a pioneer in the crystal industry. This episode timelines Daniel’s work, alongside his journey of finding various ways to manifest his passion for crystal growth. Most recently his research has been focused on phosphorescent crystals, otherwise known as glow-in-the-dark gemstones. From growing crystals to changing their […]
BAJ Podcast | Neo-gemstones
Since 2020, Sofie Boons has been collaborating with a physicist and crystal grower as part of her recently-completed doctoral research. Her collaborator, Daniel Rytz, has been active in the field of crystals for optical, piezoelectric and other applications since 1977. In 2012, together with his partner Corinne Siegrist, he founded BREVALOR as a platform to […]
BAJ Podcast- Ep.64 The Chatham Legacy
The commercialisation of gemstones is one of the most heavily debated topics in the jewellery industry. Whether that is through the ethos of sourcing gems or creating them in a lab, innovation is abundant in the development of gemstones. Today we learn about Chatham Inc., a family-run business that is a pioneer in gemstone development, […]
Tips for writing your UCAS personal statement
Writing a personal statement as part of a BA course application can be a daunting task. However, it is not meant to be a test, it’s an opportunity to show your unique perspective and passion for your chosen subject, beyond your grades. The application process for BAJ’s BA (Hons) in Jewellery Design and Production includes […]
A Closer Look at Our Level 3 Apprenticeship in Jewellery
The British Academy of Jewellery (BAJ) is proud to offer a fully funded Level 3 Apprenticeship in Jewellery, providing aspiring jewellers with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and invaluable industry insight while working in the BAJ workshop and jewellery industry. Over the course of two years, apprentices will primarily train in BAJ’s professional-quality […]
BAJ Podcast Recap- Ep.63 Moving with Space
BAJ Podcast summary In this episode, Sofie is joined by John, an artist who captures movement narratives through various works of art such as artists, designers, scientists, dancers and more. John discovered his passion for sensory objects through play and the interaction that he had with the objects during it. John loves the form of […]
BAJ Podcast- Ep.62 Computational Adornment
BAJ Podcast Summary Many jewellery designers are well-versed in navigating between the digital and physical realms, leveraging both for the creation and communication of their work. Companies, researchers, and practitioners are actively challenging and advancing these hybrid practices by rethinking traditional craftsmanship within the context of digital experiences. They explore fundamental questions about the nature […]
How to Easily Find Your Ring Size at Home- with Expertise from BAJ’s Lily Henderson
Are you seeking a way to measure your ring size from home? Discover expert tips on how to measure ring sizes, along with other valuable advice from Lily Henderson, BAJ’s Jewellery Diploma Coordinator and founder of Lily Florence Ltd. How to find your ring size Many jewellers offer a printable or digital ring-sizing guide that […]
A Closer Look at Our HNC 3D Design (Jewellery Design and Manufacturing) Course
Our HNC (level 4) course is designed as a vocationally oriented higher education qualification available after one year of study. The course presents students with complex technical skills, alongside expanding design and creative thinking skills. Students will further develop workshop and Computer Aided Design (CAD) skills needed to complete and produce design briefs and self-directed […]
Introducing: Level 3 Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacturing
We are excited to delve into our Level 3 Diploma in Jewellery Design and Manufacturing course which includes comprehensive training in practical manufacturing skills and an in-depth exploration of the jewellery industry, its rich history, and cultural significance. Over the course of one year, learners explore a wide variety of introductory-level manufacturing techniques and learn […]
BAJ Podcast Recap – Ep 61, Wearable Utopian Blu
BAJ Podcast Summary Tiia Vahula and Philip Wilck, founders of Utopia Blu aim to embrace the boundless potential of human imagination, whilst striving for a future that is not only visually appealing but also sustainable and meaningful. Breaking disciplinary boundaries, the couple look to technology to enable creative innovations that strike the right balance between […]
BAJ Students Attend Inspiring Enterprise Series
We’re pleased to announce the success of our recent series of bite-size industry-led sessions that aimed to support BAJ students’ networking and further upskilling. Our dynamic Enterprise Series covered topics from Business Design Thinking, Business Model Canvas, Business Plan Writing, Branding, Innovative Collaborations, and Visual Identity, to Website Development on Shopify. The series started with […]
Jewellery History: The Enduring Appeal of the Tennis Bracelet
By Rachel Church, BAJ Associate Lecturer: Contextualising Jewellery Practice The new game of lawn tennis, developed from indoor real tennis, became hugely popular in the late nineteenth century. Tennis parties allowed young men and women to play together, encouraging flirtations and courtships. Tennis, like the equally popular cycling, also gave middle-class women a rare opportunity […]
Pride Month Student Spotlight: Blue Twyman
In today’s Pride Month Q+A, we had the pleasure of speaking with Blue Twyman (they/them), a talented student completing their first year of our BA (Hons) Jewellery Design and Production programme. Blue’s story is one of self-discovery and artistic evolution. They candidly share their experiences of feeling out of place in the fashion world, taking […]
Pride Month Student Spotlight: Zoe Peace (Girl 1000)
We’re excited to share the second instalment of our Pride Month Q+A series- today with BAJ Birmingham learner Zoe Peace (G1000 / Girl 1000 Jewellery). Zoe is an LGBTQ+ ally and designer for the Drag community, read on to find out more about this niche artistry, her journey into metalwork and more. When did you […]
Pride Month Student Spotlight: Phoebe Woodall
We’re so excited to begin our Pride Month Q+A series, where we’re shining the spotlight on LBGTQ+ artists and allies in the BAJ Community. Today we’re joined by BAJ Birmingham Level 3 Jewellery Design and Manufacturing learner Phoebe Woodall. Read below to learn more about her time at BAJ, experience as an LGBTQ+ artist, personal […]
Advancing Your Career: Studying Jewellery
Are you passionate about jewellery design and crafting, dreaming of turning your hobby into a rewarding career? Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, BAJ offers a range of programmes designed to empower you and propel you toward success in the competitive world of jewellery making. Let’s explore how studying jewellery can transform your […]
The Rising Popularity of Men’s Jewellery in the UK
In recent years, the landscape of men’s fashion has undergone a significant transformation, with one notable trend being the increasing popularity of men’s jewellery. Once considered a niche market, men’s jewellery has now emerged as a thriving sector within the fashion industry, particularly in the United Kingdom. In this blog, we delve into the driving […]
BAJ Podcast Recap – Ep 57, Marcos Martinón-Torres
BAJ Podcast Summary This month on the BAJ podcast, Sofie Boons is joined by Professor Marcos Martinón-Torres, who has been tracing the fascinating history of gold and other luxurious materials in various places and across segments of time. Sofie expands the discussion beyond gold and delves into the broader concept of materiality. She highlights the […]
BAJ Podcast Recap – Ep 56, Clementine Edwards
In the 56th episode of the BAJ podcast, our host Sofie Boons is joined by Clementine Edwards, an artist, writer, and jeweller, who works across sculpture, jewellery, film, and more. BAJ’s Sofie Boons framed this episode around the questions ‘What role do materials and objects play in the organisation of social relationships?’ and ‘What does […]
Jewellery Careers in the UK: Opportunities and Pathways
Are you intrigued by the glimmer of gemstones, the artistry of metalwork, and the allure of crafting exquisite jewellery pieces? Embarking on a career in the jewellery industry can be an immensely rewarding journey. From designing stunning pieces to mastering the intricate techniques of jewellery making, there are numerous avenues to explore within this vibrant […]
Timeless Elegance: The Art of Pearl Hanging and Threading
In the realm of jewellery craftsmanship, few gems possess the enduring allure and timeless elegance of pearls. Since ancient times, pearls have captivated humanity with their lustrous beauty, symbolising purity, elegance, and sophistication. At the British Academy of Jewellery (BAJ), we’re delighted to unveil a course that celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship behind pearl jewellery […]
Lewis Malka Interview: Advice from Engagement Ring Specialist
Have you ever wondered how jeweller Lewis Malka established his niche in designing and manufacturing timeless engagement rings? Read on to find out in his own words Tell us about your career and how you have reached where you are today. I started my career as a 16-year-old apprentice. I worked at the bench pretty […]
Wax Carving: A Valuable Technique To Add To Your Creative Toolkit
Wax carving, a time-honoured practice in jewellery craftsmanship dating back 6,000 years, involves shaping a block of jeweller’s wax through sawing and filing, akin to a sculptor carving stone. Once the wax creation is complete, it is sent to a caster for the lost wax casting process, where it’s enveloped in a hard plaster known […]
A Jewellers Guide to Orthographic Drawing
Studying orthographic drawing for jewellery equips you with the skills to draw professional 2D jewellery designs that allow you to visualise your jewellery pieces. By drawing with precision, you’re able to develop your jewellery piece’s design features accurately to better envision a real-life product. This will then enable you to create prototypes, and more accurately […]
Mastering the Piercing Saw: A Key Skill for Jewellers
The Level 3 Jewellery Design and Manufacturing Diploma at the British Academy of Jewellery is a comprehensive programme that equips students with the essential skills and knowledge to excel in the world of jewellery design and manufacturing. One of the fundamental skills taught in this programme is mastering the piercing saw, a skill that holds […]
BAJ Podcast Recap – Ep 50
Welcome to the 50th episode of the British Academy of Jewellery Podcast. This milestone marks a journey that began during the challenging times of the April 2020 lockdown, with the aim of supporting and engaging with the jewellery industry. It’s both surprising and exciting to have reached this 50th episode, and it’s been a pleasure […]
Gemmology for Jewellers
At the British Academy of Jewellery (BAJ), we understand the importance of continuous learning and skill development in the ever-evolving world of jewellery design and craftsmanship. For Jewellers, one of the essential areas of expertise is gemmology. Understanding the principles of gemmology not only adds depth to your knowledge but also empowers you to create […]
The Sustainable Jeweller: Eco-friendly Practices in the UK Jewellery Industry
In an era where environmental concerns are at the forefront, industries around the world are reevaluating their practices to ensure a more sustainable future. The jewellery industry, traditionally associated with luxury and opulence, is no exception. As consumers become increasingly conscious of the ecological impact of their choices, jewellers in the UK are embracing eco-friendly […]
Unleash Your Creativity: Transforming Jewellery with 3Design CAD for Beginners
Since the UK jewellery industry adopted Computer-Aided Design (CAD) on a large scale back in 2007, CAD and 3D printing continue to change the way jewellery is designed, manufactured, and sold in many ways. As a response to the particular needs of jewellery manufacturing, specialised CAD programmes have been developed. If you are a budding […]
The Power of Studying HND Digital Technologies in Digital Communications Management
In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the ability to harness the full potential of technology is not only advantageous but essential. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a creative thinker, or a business-minded individual, the world of digital communication offers an array of opportunities waiting to be explored. One path to gaining expertise in this realm […]
The Importance of Gaining a UK-Based Business Qualification
In today’s competitive global marketplace, the pursuit of a successful business career requires more than just ambition and enthusiasm. It demands a solid foundation of knowledge, skills, and credentials. For aspiring business professionals, obtaining a UK-based business qualification can be a game-changer. The United Kingdom, renowned for its esteemed educational institutions and thriving business environment, […]
Digital Technology: Shaping the Future
In today’s rapidly evolving world, digital technology has become an integral part of our lives, reshaping the way we communicate, work, and interact with the world around us. From smartphones to artificial intelligence, digital technologies encompass a wide array of tools and innovations that have transformed various aspects of society. In this article, we’ll explore […]
Unlocking Success: The Impact of Business Qualifications on Career Growth
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the pursuit of professional growth and career advancement is an ever-present goal. As the world of commerce becomes increasingly complex and competitive, individuals are constantly seeking ways to stand out and make their mark. One powerful avenue towards achieving this is through enrollment in well-designed business qualifications. These courses […]
Navigating A-Level Results Day and UCAS Clearing for a Jewellery Degree: A Guide to Pursuing Your Passion
Congratulations, aspiring jewellery designers and silversmiths! A-Level results day is just around the corner, and it’s time to embark on an exciting journey towards your dream career in jewellery and design. For those who have their hearts set on a Jewellery Degree, this blog will guide you through the nerve-wracking process of navigating A-Level results […]
Mastering Orthographic Drawing: A Comprehensive Guide for Jewellers
Orthographic drawing, also known as technical drawing or engineering drawing, is a fundamental skill that holds immense value in the field of jewellery design. In this blog, we will explore what orthographic drawing entails and why it is essential for all jewellers to master this skill. Whether you are an aspiring jeweller or an established […]
