Top ten jewellery exhibitions & events of the year by London Jewellery School

We are often asked where budding jewellers can go for inspiration, networking and general jewellery marvelling and there are a wealth of opportunities right here in London you just need to know where to look. So the lovely people at the London Jewellery School have put together their pick of the top 10 annual jewellery events and exhibitions to get those creative juices flowing, take a look…

1.    Goldsmiths Fair

The king of jewellery events has to be the prestigious Goldsmiths Fair, held in September/October each year at the grand Goldsmiths hall in St. Pauls. This two-week marvel is not to be missed, as it is a truly dazzling display of 100s of independent designer-makers in the world of silver, gold and precious jewellery.

So pop the date in your diary and check it out at http://www.thegoldsmiths.co.uk/exhibitions-promotions/goldsmiths%27-fair/

2.    London Jewellery Week

Although it’s just passed don’t forget its annual and the next one will be here before you know it. Held in June, this week long jewellery bonanza is a jewellery lovers dream. Highlights include the exhibition ‘Treasure’, the ‘Hatton Garden Festival’ and of course the LJS open evening.

Sign up to their mailing list to get a reminder next year and make sure you take a look at what’s on offer, it is an excellent opportunity. http://www.londonjewelleryweek.co.uk/

3.    Origin

Origin is the Craft Council’s contemporary craft fair held annually at Old Spitalfields Market, which boosts an impressive display of jewellery, ceramics, textiles and all manor of contemporary craft. Their tag line ‘Made not manufactured’ neatly sums up the sentiment of unique, handmade and exquisitely crafted pieces.

Excellent for gaining new ideas, opening your mind and making contacts in the craft world. Take a look at – http://www.originuk.org/

4.    IJL, International Jewellery London

Held in early September, this giant scale exhibition at London’s Earls Court promises to inspire, as the place to find out the latest trends, source new and exciting products, network and attend the industry’s leading seminar programme. Great for buying supplies but you may max out that credit card!!! Check it out at – http://www.jewellerylondon.com/

5.    Dazzle

One of my personal favorites, Dazzle is a truckload of sparkly Christmas fun, it is a free exhibition open to the public which takes place each year at the National Theatre on the Southbank. The jewellers themselves are not there all the time but this one is not to be missed… http://www.dazzle-exhibitions.com/

6.    V&A

The Victoria and Albert Museum in central London is hailed by many to be the greatest museum of art and design and when it comes to jewellery it never fails to disappoint. With a full range of permanent and often temporary jewellery exhibitions, inspiration is offered in abundance.

See what’s currently on here – http://www.vam.ac.uk/

7. Craft Central Open Studios 

Craft Central is a pioneering not-for-profit organisation dedicated to building a strong future for craft and design. Every year they hold open studios where members of the public can meet the jewellery and craft designer makers in their studios and take a look at their latest collections.

For full details please see – http://www.craftcentral.org.uk/madeinclerkenwell

8.    London Fashion Week

Anyone who’s anyone in fashion can be seen strutting their stuff at London Fashion Week and although it is a trade only event, London Fashion Weekend is open to members of the public. Get your tickets and shop, get a goody bag and browse the catwalk to see whats happening in the world of fashion. For full details see their website – http://www.londonfashionweekend.co.uk/

9. Collect 

Collect is the International Arts Fair for Contemporary Objects held at the Saatchi Gallery. This prestigious fair presents a selection of UK and international galleries representing dynamic work by their portfolio of artists. For some highbrow jewellery and craft viewing be sure to check it out – http://www.craftscouncil.org.uk/collect/

10.    LJS xmas party!

Last but by no means least who could forget the legendary London Jewellery School Christmas Party! With fun and games, prizes and lots of celebratory fun. It is a great chance to meet jewellery students and tutors alike and learn more about making your own jewellery or developing your skills as a jeweller. For full details check the LJS website http://www.londonjewelleryschool.co.uk/events/

So now there are no more excuses – get out there and get involved in the jewellery community. Let us know what you think of any events you go to, until next time,

Happy Making

LJS x