University News Last updated 05 February 2024
As Valentine鈥檚 Day approaches, three alumni from 探花直播鈥檚 (BCU) prestigious School of Jewellery share some timely advice for those hunting for the ideal gift.
The big takeaway? Work with local business to find the perfect token of love.
听studied Jewellery and Silversmithing before completing a degree course in Design for Industry.
After starting her business in 2018, she says there are a number of reasons why customers should place their faith in local companies.
鈥淢akers put their heart and soul into their pieces, which reflect the maker's personal style and ethos,鈥� she says. 鈥淲hat could be more special and romantic than working directly with the maker to create something precious and unique for your love?鈥�
There are other reasons, too, says Kiya.
"Not only does it help boost the local economy and have a positive impact on the carbon footprint of a product, but shopping locally also gives clients the amazing opportunity of working directly with a maker rather than buying from a big chain鈥�.
Like Kiya,听Fei Lui studied Jewellery and Silversmithing, graduating in 2001.
He established听听in 2006, operating out of the heart of 探花直播鈥檚 Jewellery Quarter, which he praises for its 鈥渟ense of community鈥�.
Fei relishes the ability to personally connect with clients, adding: 鈥淚n turn, we get to work with local craftsmen, so it becomes a full circle.鈥�
It鈥檚 a sentiment echoed by .
A self-proclaimed lover of heavy metal music and the macabre, she studied for a National Diploma in Design and Crafts at 探花直播鈥檚 School of Jewellery in 2011.
鈥淎ll our jewellery is handcrafted using traditional techniques in our workshop and our materials are sourced locally, so when supporting a local business like ours you are also supporting our historic Jewellery Quarter,鈥� she says.
So what鈥檚 the ideal gift on Valentine鈥檚 Day?
According to Kiya, an engagement ring remains the ultimate present: 鈥淚f you are not quite ready to pop the question, I have a beautiful selection of earrings and pendants.鈥�
Fei鈥檚 perfect Valentine鈥檚 gift is harder to pin down.
鈥淭his is a tough one to answer,鈥� he says.
鈥淎 lovely pair of earrings always make for a nice gift because they can be worn every day and always make a wonderful addition to any jewellery collection.
鈥淚鈥檇 recommend a pair of 18ct gold opal drop earrings. The striking colour play adds a beautiful glow, complemented by the diamonds.鈥�
Jo has something more unusual to recommend.
鈥淎 silver heart ring or our anatomical heart necklace,鈥� she says.
For more inspiration, the School of Jewellery is also hosting a听free exhibition of unique student-made engagement rings, sponsored by Jewellery manufacturer Weston Beamor.
The public can see the exhibition until March 1st听at the School of Jewellery, Vittoria Street Gallery, Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm.