From December 2023 to March 2024, BAJ’s HNC Art & Design 3D Design (Jewellery Design & Manufacturing) students worked on an incredibly enriching project. The project brief, focusing on creating unique engagement rings that celebrate different cultures, not only fosters creativity and innovation but also encourages students to delve into the historical and cultural significance of betrothal customs and engagement rings. Hatton Garden-based engagement ring Jeweller Lewis Malka collaborated providing his feedback and selecting the designs he found the best.
In the hands-on workshops, students created maquettes and utilised various design techniques such as polymer/epoxy clay, CAD modelling, and wax modelling, demonstrating their dedication to mastering the process of idea development. Additionally, the guidance provided by skilled tutors in various methods like making a rex collet and an eternity ring, understanding how stones are set, and applying specialised techniques, ensured that students gained practical skills essential for jewellery manufacturing.
In the classroom, students explored the work of 3D practitioners, both past and present, which provided them with valuable insights and inspiration. Investigating various materials, techniques, and processes further enriched their understanding and allowed them to produce work that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also conceptually rich and culturally meaningful.
Lewis chose two winners – one from each cohort that participated. After much consideration, Agnieszka was selected from cohort G1 and Rose from cohort G2. Lewis commended the two students for their technical excellence and inspiring designs; these two lucky winners received a copy of his book: The Engagement Ring and a mentoring tour in the London Diamond Bourse.
As the students reflect on their work, we showcase their individual pieces of jewellery. They’ve not only learned technical skills but also developed a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of their creations.
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