University News Last updated 13 September 2016
Every year the International Jewellery London (IJL) event announces a shortlist of Bright Young Gems, an award for emerging young jewellers. This prestigious award provides the opportunity for talented students at the forefront of their career to showcase their work at the event.
This year, three of the five Bright Young Gems announced at the event were final year students from Birmingham City University’s School of Jewellery. This is an exceptional accomplishment for both the students and the school, given that the exclusive event gains attention on a global scale where buyers attend from 64 counties.
The three gifted students, who graduated from our Jewellery and Silversmithing - Design for Industry - BA (Hons) course, were; Katy Tromans, Stephanie Willis and Rebecca Wilkes. Katy Tromans, who created highly detailed jewellery based on stories, expressed her excitement at being selected and stated:
Stephanie Wills, who was inspired by patterns made by a Spirograph, created 3D mechanical Jewellery using precious metals and gemstones. Stephanie expressed her appreciation at being selected:
“This prestigious award provides me with the opportunity to meet some very inspiring designers and jewellers at IJL. Being able to showcase my collection to them will help to grow my knowledge of the jewellery industry and help to establish my career as a jeweller and designer.”
Rebecca Wilkes, who uses 3D printing to create modern jewellery, she expressed her delight at being selected, stating:
“I look forward to using this prestigious platform to exhibit and discuss the potential of my new collection to those who may help to make my dream a reality. It really is an honour to have been given this opportunity at such an important UK based jewellery trade show.”
Claire Price, Course Director of BA (Hons) Jewellery and Silversmithing – Design for Industry stated that: “For recent graduates to gain exposure at International Jewellery London is fantastic and such a valuable opportunity. It is significant for them to show their work to a wider audience, receiving recognition at this level and making contacts to launch their careers. This platform makes a huge impact on our graduates, whilst providing retailers with innovative products - all shaping the future of the industry.”
The Bright Young Gems awards are judged and decided by a panel of industry leading professionals including Hilary Alexander, OBE (Editor at Large Hello! Fashion Monthly Magazine), Claudia Mahoney (Executive Fashion and Beauty Director of Glamour) and Shaun Leane (British Luxury Fine Jewellery Designer) among others.
Katy, Stephanie and Rebecca attended The School of Jewellery in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter. The reputable school is the largest of its kind in Europe and staff are experts in their field, imparting their valuable knowledge to students.