We’re officially in the run-up to Christmas, and it’s time to start thinking about presents. In order to give you a hand we’ve been exploring the best jewellery makers in Devon, to help you get that special someone, something special! Our Twitter following gave us a hand, and they had plenty of suggestions! So here’s ten of the best.
Erin Cox, Exeter
Hidden away in historic Exeter, Erin Cox Jewellery holds the promise of hard work and skill, a love of home, and the secret ingredient of a personal approach to each client and their story. Erin has experienced some big adventures since days studying fine jewellery at University, but she has always been a pioneer.
You can visit the Castle street shop and workshop, to see Erin’s full collection of jewellery made in silver, gold and platinum, including engagement and wedding rings. Open Monday to Saturday, 10am until 5.30pm.
Victoria Sewart, Plymouth
Established in 2006, Plymouth’s first contemporary jewellery gallery is unlike conventional jewellers. Victoria Sewart are continually on the hunt for extraordinary, inspiring work from British designers to fill both their boutique and online shop.
The resulting jewellery collections are created from traditional materials like diamonds, gold and silver to contemporary ones such as acrylic, wood, aluminium and recycled materials.
Nicola Hurst, Plymouth
Nicola Hurst is another jewellery designer from Plymouth, and all her items are created and made by Nicola in her busy workshop and gallery in the city. Nicola’s designs are described as elegant, simple and easy to wear, often combining silver with gemstones for a classic look.
https://www.nicolahurst.co.uk/
Karen Adams Jewellery, North Devon
Karen Adams specialised in designing and making jewellery and went on to complete a BA (Hons) in Applied Arts, graduating in July 2000.
Her work is quite simple in design as her style and themes are based very much on curves and natural forms. Karen has incorporated many different techniques into her work from anodising, oxidising and more recently experimenting with different surface textures.
https://www.karenadamsjewellery.co.uk/
Yumé Jewellery, Ashburton
In July 2013 Yumé opened her studio shop in Ashburton, Devon. The studio gives Yumé space to craft her work, every piece from recycled silver, whilst the shop gives customers the opportunity to see Yumé’s entire collection.
As well as Yumé’s jewellery, the shop stocks carefully selected pieces of art and crafts from some of Yumé’s favourite artists, designers and makers. The ever changing collection ranges from ceramics, textiles and fashion which has been sourced from all over the UK.
Jason Jones Jewellery, Barnstaple
Jason specializes in creating unique pieces of contemporary jewellery in silver, gold, platinum, diamonds and precious stones. Jason is often asked by clients if he can rejuvenate and modernize old personal jewellery of theirs. In fact, this is the side of the business that is growing the fastest! Because the customers are so impressed by his creative abilities and craftsmanship and the fact they now have a modern item of jewellery to preserve their personal family memories, Jason now has an extensive waiting list of prospective commissions.
https://www.facebook.com/Jason-Jones-Jewellery-157327671018993/
Val Muddyman, Plymouth
Val’s love of making jewellery started in 2007. Recently, she made the decision to return to full time education and has just graduated from Plymouth College of Art with a degree in Jewellery and Silversmithing. This has enabled her to try new techniques and to have the freedom to experiment. The university experience has broadened her horizons and increased both her confidence and skills. Val was thrilled to be presented with the Victoria Sewart Showcase Award which meant that her work will be featured in Sewart’s gallery.
https://www.valmuddyman.co.uk/
Wray & Co., Plymouth
As a family, Wray & Co. are all passionate about Pre-owned & Antique Jewellery, and they are always happy to share their knowledge. They believe that their collection exemplifies the very best from a range of time periods in their history.
The business was started in Plymouth in 1887 by William G Capps, having served his apprenticeship since the 1860’s as a watchmaker. Fast-forward to more recent times, in 2014 Wray & Co won City Centre Business of the Year at the inaugural Plymouth Herald City & Waterfront awards.
https://www.wraysjewellers.co.uk/
Kate Higham, Ashburton
A visit to Kate Higham’s studio is always a pleasure. She enthuses about the latest stones she has acquired and how she plans to use them. She engages her customers, solicits their opinions and is simply her hospitable and generous self.
The new shop and studio in Ashburton sits just off the town centre opposite the post office. It has a homely atmosphere and the smart well lit cabinets sparkle and shine out with Kate’s latest work. Browsers are encouraged but Kate also uses the space (by appointment) for those who want to commission pieces for special occasions. Her Italian roots emerge in the warmth of her welcome and her clear sense of personal style.
Anne Farag, Ashburton
Anne comes from an exotic background, her father being Egyptian and her mother Swedish. Many collectors of her work insist that something of these influences show through in her work.
Much of the inspiration that generates her current work, comes from a rich variety of sources. She is particularly interested in cultures which tend to use a lot of patterns and decoration, both literal or abstract, ancient or modern. As a result of this mix, she endeavours to introduce all these influences into her current work, which includes myriads of repeating patterns etched into silver.
