Blog Modules

Capturing the Allure of Pearls on Camera

Blog, Education, Products

Capturing the Allure of Pearls on Camera

By Lucy Davies of Raw Pearls Product photography is fast becoming an essential sales tool for retail jewellery outlets and, in particular, those with online platforms. Yet sourcing imagery good enough to maximise engagement and sales is difficult for many retailers. ... Read More
Capturing the Allure of Pearls on Camera

Blog, Education, Products

Capturing the Allure of Pearls on Camera

By Lucy Davies of Raw Pearls Product photography is fast becoming an essential sales tool for retail jewellery outlets and, in particular, those with online platforms. Yet sourcing imagery good enough to maximise engagement and sales is difficult for many retailers. ... Read More

Blog, Industry, News, Trends

The Essential AW18 Jewellery Trends from London Fashion Week and Beyond

by IJL • • 2 Comments

Look past all the glamour, celebrity-sightings and Amazonian models at New York, London, Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks and you will discover a whole host of essential insights into upcoming jewellery trends. 

At IJL, we make it our mission to distil these trends into usable information and insights for your jewellery business, helping you to decide whether that extra pair of statement earrings, choice of gemstone or quirky shape are really worth your time and investment.

Related Blogs: 5 Jewellery Industry Trends For 2018

To find that delicate balance between commerciality and fashion-forward credentials, we’ve scoured the catwalks of London Fashion Week AW18 and beyond to discover what jewellery trends will sparkle in the winter months. Discover why it is definitely the season for earrings below:

AW18 Jewellery Trends from the Catwalk

Pearl Power

The humble pearl has been given a makeover for AW18 with oversized earrings, ear-cuffs and statement asymmetrical designs at Paul Costello, Erdem, Burberry and Prabal Gurung, as well as daintier pearl drop earrings at Emilia Wickstead.

Prabal Gurung AW18 Image Credit Prabal Gurung Instagram
Image Credit: Prabal Gurung, Instagram

Oscar de la Renta took an artistic approach with beautiful pearl necklaces in the style of alternating moons and stars, while Michael Kors layered duo pearl strands over simple Breton t-shirts and chunky knitwear.

The sense that pearls will be relevant for both casual and evening looks should inspire pearl jewellery designers and those considering new collections or designs moving forward. We predict peacock pearls (especially those with an almost metallic, oil slick colour-play) will be especially popular. Don’t miss pearl specialists Di Perle, Lido Pearls, Raw Pearls, ORA Pearls, and Claudia Bradby at IJL 2018.

Heavy Metal

Lustrous metallics, plenty of glitter spread across hairlines, eyelids and foreheads, plus full length sparkling gloves, holographic fabrics and heavy metals… this winter harks back to the glory days of Glam Rock! Turn to Mary Katrantzou, Coach, Hellessy, Tom ford, Marta Jakubowski, Ashley Williams, Zadig & Voltaire and Kate Spade for inspiration, but look out for chunky cuffs at Christopher Kane, shimmering ‘Ultra Violet’ shades at AV Robertson, and layers of subtle shimmering fabrics at Marc Jacobs.

In terms of jewellery, we predict interesting doublets like Stephen Webster’s iconic Crystal Haze collection, plus labradorite, moonstone, lustrous baroque pearls, rich purple gemstones and combinations of enamel, glitter and black rhodium finishes. Textures will also play a role, with the current trend for tassels likely to continue. Bring your jewellery ideas to life with the loose gemstone and pearl companies exhibiting at IJL 2018.

A post shared by TOM FORD (@tomford) on

Related Blogs: How Will the Pantone Colour of the Year 2018 Impact Jewellery?

Eighties Earrings and Chandeliers

If you thought the days of big shoulder pads and even bigger hair were behind us, think again! Eighties fashion proved a big hit on the AW18 catwalks, especially with the likes of Burberry, Halpern, Simone Rocha, Mulberry, Brock Collection, Jason Wu, Alexander Wang and especially Marc Jacobs.

Mulberry statement earrings Image Credit Mulberry, Instagram
Image Credit: Mulberry, Instagram

To keep up with the ostentatious clothes, designers chose statement, shoulder-skimming earrings in bold hoop and chandelier designs. Many designs were packed with geometric shapes, all layered together to create something akin to an art-piece, not just the humble earring. Plus, stories were told through earrings with palm leaves, tropical birds of paradise and lion’s heads all recreated in sparkling form.

Multi-Pierced Madness and Colour Co-ordination

With the ear proving to be the ultimate canvas, many designers experimented with ear cuffs, ear climbers and multi-pierced designs that turned the whole ear into a statement. Prabal Gurung excelled at this, as did Mary Katrantzou who led a trail of hoop earrings from the lobe all way to the hairline.

A post shared by PETER PILOTTO (@peterpilotto) on

The catwalks also buzzed with a sense of colour coordination – where jewellery was purposefully chosen to match the colours of a dress or blouse perfectly. Suites also showed signs of being a ‘thing’ as fashion-forward women seek to look completely in-tune. Look to Peter Pilotto, Simone Rocha, Anna Sui and many more.

KEY TREND AW18: Asymmetrical Statements

Undoubtedly, the biggest jewellery trend for AW18 is asymmetrical earrings – the bigger the better. Almost every designer experimented in some way with asymmetrical hoops, chandeliers, geometric shapes, pearls and crystals to great effect.

Burberry AW18 model picture
Image Credit: Burberry, Instagram

This trend has evolved from the obsession with tassels, fringing and unique ‘mobile’ earrings made popular by Becca Jewellery and many others. And there are plenty of fine and fashion jewellery brands already experimenting with this trend, including IJL Editors’ Choice Winner, The Rock Hound, Swarovski, Chanel, Alex Monroe, Trollbeads, Lara Bohinc, Amanda Coleman, and Astley Clarke.

As winter party shopping begins in September, we recommend having an array of asymmetric earrings ready for your customers. Don’t miss your chance to see some of the best options from across the globe with IJL 2018.

Related Blogs: 5 Top Tips to Create a Stronger Jewellery Brand

If you are a jewellery brand or business owner, showcasing your wares in London is a key stepping-stone – not just for securing sales and signing orders, but for getting valuable feedback and networking with industry leaders, buyers and press. Find out more here.

IJL is #withyou curating the biggest and most influential fashion and jewellery trends to support your brand development. Discover the IJL Trends Catwalk at IJL 2018 from September 2-4. 

Blog, Education, News

Celebrating 100 Years of Sparkling Suffragettes

by IJL •

It’s been 100 years since the first British women won the right to vote, thanks to the tireless efforts of the Suffragettes.

In honour of this we decided to take a closer look at the women behind the movement and the jewellery that they used to identify themselves, get noticed and make a stir.

Image Credit: ebay – lillybumblebeevictorianjewels

Worn in the years preceding the First World War, Suffragette jewellery came in many forms, including homemade, mass-produced, fine and one-off arts-and-crafts pieces. Its primary purpose was to demonstrate its wearer’s allegiance to the suffragist cause.

Related Blogs: How Will the Pantone Colour of the Year 2018 Impact Jewellery?

The colour scheme, adopted by the WSPU (Women’s Social and Political Union) from 1908, signified the key missions of the movement. This is thought to have been the first campaign group to use specific colours and styles to further their cause.

The violet represented the dignity women were fighting for; Green identified the hope for a brighter future and White symbolised the purity of the women fighting for the cause. Many items of Suffragette jewellery feature peridot, amethyst and diamond. 

Image credit: ebay – mondiall_123

The co-editor of the Votes for Women newspaper, Mrs Pethick Lawrence, was quoted in 1908 explaining her interpretation of the colours of the WSPU: “Purple as everyone knows is the royal colour. It stands for the royal blood that flows in the veins of every suffragette, the instinct of freedom and dignity… white stands for purity in private and public life…green is the colour of hope and the emblem of spring.”

Related Blogs: 5 Top Tips to Create a Stronger Jewellery Brand

When it came to using styles to further the cause, it was in fact Sylvia Pankhurst, daughter of Emmeline Pankhurst – one of the women’s rights advocates behind the movement, whom designed the iconic Holloway Brooch (Meryl Streep wore a copy in the 2015 film, Suffragette). The brooch depicts the ‘portcullis’ symbol of the House of commons, hanging chains and an arrow – symbol of convicts – in honour of the suffragists who served time in Holloway Prison.

Image credit: Rowan and Rowan

Fashion at the time of the Suffragette movement had an emphasis on delicate femininity – a language that the suffragists successfully captured in order to increase the appeal of the movement and to dodge any stereotype of ‘masculine’ women’s rights campaigners.

Image credit: ebay – top-banana-tetbury

Cally Blackman, a fashion lecturer at Central Saint Martins, noted in the article, “How the suffragettes used fashion to further the cause” (The Guardian, 8 October 2015): “Membership numbers grew, and it became fashionable to identify with the struggle for the vote, even if only by wearing a small piece of jewellery picked out in semi-precious coloured stones or enamel.”

What you can take away from these beautiful pieces is that there was definitely more to them than meets the eye. Worn by some of the most inspiring, influential women in the world, they were a powerful tool in the fight for women’s rights.

Image Credit: ebay – dragonheartantiquejewellery

IJL is #withyou offering essential jewellery industry advice, guidance and support for emerging companies, designer-makers and international brands. Speak to our team to find out more. 

Industry, News

IJL Reveal New VIP Judging Line-Up for BRIGHT YOUNG GEMS 2018

by IJL • • 1 Comment

NEWS

January 28 2018

 

IJL REVEAL NEW VIP JUDGING LINE-UP FOR BRIGHT YOUNG GEMS 2018

Applications now open

 

IJL has announced that two new judges have been appointed to join the prestigious panel for Bright Young Gems 2018 – on the press side, Liza Urla, influencer and founder of Gemologue and, for the first time representing retailers, guest judge Henry Graham, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Wolf & Badger. They join long standing panellists, Hilary Alexander OBE, Editor-at-Large Hello Fashion Monthly; Annabel Davidson, Editor of Vanity Fair on Jewellery and Alice Edwards, Jewellery Editor for Sunday Times Style and The Times LUXX magazine.

 

The IJL Bright Young Gems initiative has evolved over the past thirteen years to become the foremost industry-recognised platform for new talent. The four winning designers, final year students at UK colleges/universities or recent graduates, will win the unique chance to exhibit at IJL in September, as well as attend a one-day mentoring workshop with leading jewellery experts in June. This workshop will help the winners maximise their IJL experience, reaping the benefits of exhibiting at the UK’s premier jewellery industry show.

 

Sarah Kitley-Spencer, Event Manager IJL, comments: “Both Lisa and Henry bring very valuable skill sets to the Bright Young Gems judging panel for 2018 and I am really pleased to welcome them on board. My thanks go also to both Charlie Boyd and Shaun Leane for all their input and support last year. The Bright Young Gems stand is always one of the IJL highlights and we look forward to providing these stars of the future with their first commercial platform, so they can take their first steps into business. I encourage all final year students to apply and they too could find themselves in the Bright Young Gems Hall of Fame alongside the likes of Tomasz Donocik and Imogen Belfield!”

 

Liza Urla, Jewellery Influencer, Jewellery Editor and Founder of Gemologue, Author of “Street Jewellery Styles & Styling Tips, said: “I am always on the lookout for exciting and innovative emerging designers for Gemologue. Bright Young Gems is an important initiative for young and up-and-coming designers who are about to dazzle the jewellery world with their exceptional talent and creativity. I am excited to help handpick the best of the new crop of talented designers that jewellery lovers need to know about!”

 

Henry Graham added: “The opportunity to be part of a great initiative like Bright Young Gems that so closely complements what we do at Wolf & Badger by also supporting independent brands, was one we couldn’t easily pass up. Like all of the brands we choose to work with, I will be looking for superlative quality of craftsmanship, differentiation in design approach and an element of commerciality.”

 

Bright Young Gems winner in 2017, Kristina Ferenchuk, concluded: “Bright Young Gems was a great opportunity for me to present my work in a very professional setting and get invaluable feedback on my work from the industry. The mentoring day that was organised prior to the show was incredibly useful, and during IJL I felt more confident and prepared, as well as making meaningful contacts.”

Applications are now open for the Bright Young Gems 2018.  Final year students at colleges and universities across the UK as well as graduates who are one to two years out of college can apply now.  Details of how to apply can be found at http://www.jewellerylondon.com/brightyounggems. The closing date for Bright Young Gems 2018 is May 9. 

 

For more information about Bright Young Gems at IJL 2018 please contact: Jennifer Hall-Thompson or Suzanna Hammond: +44 (0) 7770 802442  suzanna@hammondpr.co.uk

 

-ends-

Notes to Editors:

 

IJL 2018 will run from 2 to 4 September 2018 at Olympia GRAND, London.

For more information about IJL 2018 please contact:

Jennifer Hall-Thompson or Suzanna Hammond +44 (0) 7770 802 442 IJLPressoffice@reedexpo.co.uk

 

About International Jewellery London:

 

International Jewellery London is the UK’S leading trade event for the international jewellery industry. The event showcases the latest product ranges from over 520 high-end, finished jewellery manufacturers, designers, loose gemstones, and retail services suppliers. IJL attracts an unparalleled range of jewellery-focussed and pre-qualified buyers from 71 countries in an exclusive trading environment to do business, share knowledge and network in the heart of London, the UK’s style capital. Inspiring the industry for over 60 years, IJL showcases future industry trends, provides 100% free education and attracts an unrivalled selection of consumer and trade press.

 

IJL is sponsored by the NAJ and supported by the GIA, Gem-A, The Houlden Group, The Company of Master Jewellers, The Responsible Jewellery Council, The Goldsmiths Company and CIBJO. For further information, please visit www.jewellerylondon.com

 

About Reed Exhibitions

 

Reed Exhibitions is the world’s leading events organiser, with over 500 events in 30 countries. In 2016, Reed brought together over seven million event participants from around the world generating billions of dollars in business. Today Reed events are held throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific and Africa and organised by 40 fully staffed offices. Reed Exhibitions serves 43 industry sectors with trade and consumer events. It is part of the RELX Group plc, a world-leading provider of information solutions for professional customers across industries.

 

Jewellery and Fashion Accessories events are: Jewelers International Showcase (JIS) in January and April; Girls Jeweller Tokyo (IJT); Bijorhca Paris; JCK Tuscon; Tokyo Fashion Jewellery Expo (April); Garderobe; International Jewellery & Watch Show (JWS); International Jewellery Kobe (IJK); Luxury and JCK Las Vegas. For further information, please visit: www.reedexpo.com

 

 

Blog, Exhibiting, Industry, News

The IJL Journey: Discover the Career-Boosting Benefits of KickStart

by IJL • • 1 Comment

Our landmark initiative for emerging brands and talented designers is back for 2018! But in a change to previous years, we are looking for just SIX exceptional design stars to join us on the IJL Journey.

Since launching in 2009, KickStart has given jewellery designers the chance to start their industry careers in the most vibrant and engaging way possible; giving them access to our leading trade-only audience, buyers, retailers and leading mentoring programme.

What’s different about KickStart 2018?

It’s all change for KickStart in 2018. Our landmark initiative gives emerging UK-based designer jewellers  the chance to launch their concepts in the most dynamic way possible. We are looking for just SIX stand-out stars this year. Are you one of them?

KickStart is judged by IJL, the NAJ and London Jewellery Exports consultant, Aldyth Crowther.

How will KickStart benefit my emerging jewellery brand?

A shared KickStart stand slashes the cost of exhibiting, while our programme of promotion, benefits and complementary training increases your ROI. If you’ve got ambitions to be the next Stephen Webster, Shaun Leane, Solange Azagury-Partridge, ChloBo or Sif Jakobs, then KickStart is for you.

IJL 2017 KickStart
The IJL 2017 KickStarters are all smiles!

Some of the most innovative and inspiring jewellery designers working today started their careers with the help of KickStart, including Imogen Belfield, Jessica De Lotz, Phoebe Sherwood Moore of Phoebe Jewellery, Jenny Llewellyn, Mandana Oskui, Beth Gilmour, Kristjan Eyjolfsson, Sammi Jo Coxon, Hannah Bedford, Sian Bostwick, Gina Melosi, Anna Loucah, Cara Tonkin, Emily Richardson, Flora Bhattachary.

Still not convinced? Here are some other ways KickStart can benefit your small business and help it grow.

  • Guaranteed promotion to an international trade press audience, plus a dedicated KickStart web page, blog posts and social media campaign from IJL.
  • A KickStart Training Day in London that brings together leading industry advisors and specialists to guide you through business planning, pricing, intellectual property, PR and marketing, branding and more.
  • An invitation to the IJL Curated evening event, giving you to the chance to network with journalists, industry commentators and bloggers.
  • A London travel and accommodation bursary courtesy of the National Association of Jewellers. International applicants will be hosted by IJL.
  • Continued guidance and support after IJL 2018 to ensure you can make the most of your investment with us.

What is the KickStart People’s Choice Award?

Every KickStarter will be automatically entered into the People’s Choice Award, which gives the IJL community the chance to vote for their favourite new star via social media. The winner of this important accolade enjoys a dedicated press campaign, social media posts and trade coverage.

KickStart stand at IJL 2017
The KickStart shared stand at IJL 2017.

How do I apply for KickStart 2018?

KickStart opens for entries on January 22, 2018 and closes for entries on April 10, 2018.

Conditions for entry are as follows:

  • UK-based entrants must prove that their products are designed and made in the UK.
  • You must be able to take and fulfil orders from retailers.
  • Participants will be required to become a member of the NAJ (£181+VAT) – check out their website naj.co.uk to find out more.
  • You will need to be available to attend out KickStart Training Day on June 13, 2018.
  • All precious jewellery should be legally hallmarked.
  • Your business must be more than 12 months, but less than five years old.
  • Successful KickStarters will be required to pay £650 + VAT for the price of a stand at IJL.

To apply for KickStart, please click here. 

What is the IJL Journey?

As part of our IJL 365 approach, the IJL Journey extends far beyond our three-day trade event. It offers myriad career-boosting benefits, including a mentoring package, workshop days, ongoing pricing, branding and marketing support, and introductions to key industry figures.

This invaluable advice prepares each Bright Young Gem, KickStarter and Design Gallery Exhibitor to meet the 9,000 strong jewellery audience at IJL 2018, from September 2-4.

Discover more about the IJL Journey, here. 

IJL is #withyou offering career opportunities and the chance to grow your jewellery business, whether you are a student, recent graduate, emerging brand or established player. Speak to our team to find out more. 

Blog, Industry, News, Trends

The Essential AW18 Jewellery Trends from London Fashion Week and Beyond

by IJL • • 2 Comments

Look past all the glamour, celebrity-sightings and Amazonian models at New York, London, Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks and you will discover a whole host of essential insights into upcoming jewellery trends. 

At IJL, we make it our mission to distil these trends into usable information and insights for your jewellery business, helping you to decide whether that extra pair of statement earrings, choice of gemstone or quirky shape are really worth your time and investment.

Related Blogs: 5 Jewellery Industry Trends For 2018

To find that delicate balance between commerciality and fashion-forward credentials, we’ve scoured the catwalks of London Fashion Week AW18 and beyond to discover what jewellery trends will sparkle in the winter months. Discover why it is definitely the season for earrings below:

AW18 Jewellery Trends from the Catwalk

Pearl Power

The humble pearl has been given a makeover for AW18 with oversized earrings, ear-cuffs and statement asymmetrical designs at Paul Costello, Erdem, Burberry and Prabal Gurung, as well as daintier pearl drop earrings at Emilia Wickstead.

Prabal Gurung AW18 Image Credit Prabal Gurung Instagram
Image Credit: Prabal Gurung, Instagram

Oscar de la Renta took an artistic approach with beautiful pearl necklaces in the style of alternating moons and stars, while Michael Kors layered duo pearl strands over simple Breton t-shirts and chunky knitwear.

The sense that pearls will be relevant for both casual and evening looks should inspire pearl jewellery designers and those considering new collections or designs moving forward. We predict peacock pearls (especially those with an almost metallic, oil slick colour-play) will be especially popular. Don’t miss pearl specialists Di Perle, Lido Pearls, Raw Pearls, ORA Pearls, and Claudia Bradby at IJL 2018.

Heavy Metal

Lustrous metallics, plenty of glitter spread across hairlines, eyelids and foreheads, plus full length sparkling gloves, holographic fabrics and heavy metals… this winter harks back to the glory days of Glam Rock! Turn to Mary Katrantzou, Coach, Hellessy, Tom ford, Marta Jakubowski, Ashley Williams, Zadig & Voltaire and Kate Spade for inspiration, but look out for chunky cuffs at Christopher Kane, shimmering ‘Ultra Violet’ shades at AV Robertson, and layers of subtle shimmering fabrics at Marc Jacobs.

In terms of jewellery, we predict interesting doublets like Stephen Webster’s iconic Crystal Haze collection, plus labradorite, moonstone, lustrous baroque pearls, rich purple gemstones and combinations of enamel, glitter and black rhodium finishes. Textures will also play a role, with the current trend for tassels likely to continue. Bring your jewellery ideas to life with the loose gemstone and pearl companies exhibiting at IJL 2018.

A post shared by TOM FORD (@tomford) on

Related Blogs: How Will the Pantone Colour of the Year 2018 Impact Jewellery?

Eighties Earrings and Chandeliers

If you thought the days of big shoulder pads and even bigger hair were behind us, think again! Eighties fashion proved a big hit on the AW18 catwalks, especially with the likes of Burberry, Halpern, Simone Rocha, Mulberry, Brock Collection, Jason Wu, Alexander Wang and especially Marc Jacobs.

Mulberry statement earrings Image Credit Mulberry, Instagram
Image Credit: Mulberry, Instagram

To keep up with the ostentatious clothes, designers chose statement, shoulder-skimming earrings in bold hoop and chandelier designs. Many designs were packed with geometric shapes, all layered together to create something akin to an art-piece, not just the humble earring. Plus, stories were told through earrings with palm leaves, tropical birds of paradise and lion’s heads all recreated in sparkling form.

Multi-Pierced Madness and Colour Co-ordination

With the ear proving to be the ultimate canvas, many designers experimented with ear cuffs, ear climbers and multi-pierced designs that turned the whole ear into a statement. Prabal Gurung excelled at this, as did Mary Katrantzou who led a trail of hoop earrings from the lobe all way to the hairline.

A post shared by PETER PILOTTO (@peterpilotto) on

The catwalks also buzzed with a sense of colour coordination – where jewellery was purposefully chosen to match the colours of a dress or blouse perfectly. Suites also showed signs of being a ‘thing’ as fashion-forward women seek to look completely in-tune. Look to Peter Pilotto, Simone Rocha, Anna Sui and many more.

KEY TREND AW18: Asymmetrical Statements

Undoubtedly, the biggest jewellery trend for AW18 is asymmetrical earrings – the bigger the better. Almost every designer experimented in some way with asymmetrical hoops, chandeliers, geometric shapes, pearls and crystals to great effect.

Burberry AW18 model picture
Image Credit: Burberry, Instagram

This trend has evolved from the obsession with tassels, fringing and unique ‘mobile’ earrings made popular by Becca Jewellery and many others. And there are plenty of fine and fashion jewellery brands already experimenting with this trend, including IJL Editors’ Choice Winner, The Rock Hound, Swarovski, Chanel, Alex Monroe, Trollbeads, Lara Bohinc, Amanda Coleman, and Astley Clarke.

As winter party shopping begins in September, we recommend having an array of asymmetric earrings ready for your customers. Don’t miss your chance to see some of the best options from across the globe with IJL 2018.

Related Blogs: 5 Top Tips to Create a Stronger Jewellery Brand

If you are a jewellery brand or business owner, showcasing your wares in London is a key stepping-stone – not just for securing sales and signing orders, but for getting valuable feedback and networking with industry leaders, buyers and press. Find out more here.

IJL is #withyou curating the biggest and most influential fashion and jewellery trends to support your brand development. Discover the IJL Trends Catwalk at IJL 2018 from September 2-4. 

Blog, Education, News

Celebrating 100 Years of Sparkling Suffragettes

by IJL •

It’s been 100 years since the first British women won the right to vote, thanks to the tireless efforts of the Suffragettes.

In honour of this we decided to take a closer look at the women behind the movement and the jewellery that they used to identify themselves, get noticed and make a stir.

Image Credit: ebay – lillybumblebeevictorianjewels

Worn in the years preceding the First World War, Suffragette jewellery came in many forms, including homemade, mass-produced, fine and one-off arts-and-crafts pieces. Its primary purpose was to demonstrate its wearer’s allegiance to the suffragist cause.

Related Blogs: How Will the Pantone Colour of the Year 2018 Impact Jewellery?

The colour scheme, adopted by the WSPU (Women’s Social and Political Union) from 1908, signified the key missions of the movement. This is thought to have been the first campaign group to use specific colours and styles to further their cause.

The violet represented the dignity women were fighting for; Green identified the hope for a brighter future and White symbolised the purity of the women fighting for the cause. Many items of Suffragette jewellery feature peridot, amethyst and diamond. 

Image credit: ebay – mondiall_123

The co-editor of the Votes for Women newspaper, Mrs Pethick Lawrence, was quoted in 1908 explaining her interpretation of the colours of the WSPU: “Purple as everyone knows is the royal colour. It stands for the royal blood that flows in the veins of every suffragette, the instinct of freedom and dignity… white stands for purity in private and public life…green is the colour of hope and the emblem of spring.”

Related Blogs: 5 Top Tips to Create a Stronger Jewellery Brand

When it came to using styles to further the cause, it was in fact Sylvia Pankhurst, daughter of Emmeline Pankhurst – one of the women’s rights advocates behind the movement, whom designed the iconic Holloway Brooch (Meryl Streep wore a copy in the 2015 film, Suffragette). The brooch depicts the ‘portcullis’ symbol of the House of commons, hanging chains and an arrow – symbol of convicts – in honour of the suffragists who served time in Holloway Prison.

Image credit: Rowan and Rowan

Fashion at the time of the Suffragette movement had an emphasis on delicate femininity – a language that the suffragists successfully captured in order to increase the appeal of the movement and to dodge any stereotype of ‘masculine’ women’s rights campaigners.

Image credit: ebay – top-banana-tetbury

Cally Blackman, a fashion lecturer at Central Saint Martins, noted in the article, “How the suffragettes used fashion to further the cause” (The Guardian, 8 October 2015): “Membership numbers grew, and it became fashionable to identify with the struggle for the vote, even if only by wearing a small piece of jewellery picked out in semi-precious coloured stones or enamel.”

What you can take away from these beautiful pieces is that there was definitely more to them than meets the eye. Worn by some of the most inspiring, influential women in the world, they were a powerful tool in the fight for women’s rights.

Image Credit: ebay – dragonheartantiquejewellery

IJL is #withyou offering essential jewellery industry advice, guidance and support for emerging companies, designer-makers and international brands. Speak to our team to find out more. 

Industry, News

IJL Reveal New VIP Judging Line-Up for BRIGHT YOUNG GEMS 2018

by IJL • • 1 Comment

NEWS

January 28 2018

 

IJL REVEAL NEW VIP JUDGING LINE-UP FOR BRIGHT YOUNG GEMS 2018

Applications now open

 

IJL has announced that two new judges have been appointed to join the prestigious panel for Bright Young Gems 2018 – on the press side, Liza Urla, influencer and founder of Gemologue and, for the first time representing retailers, guest judge Henry Graham, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Wolf & Badger. They join long standing panellists, Hilary Alexander OBE, Editor-at-Large Hello Fashion Monthly; Annabel Davidson, Editor of Vanity Fair on Jewellery and Alice Edwards, Jewellery Editor for Sunday Times Style and The Times LUXX magazine.

 

The IJL Bright Young Gems initiative has evolved over the past thirteen years to become the foremost industry-recognised platform for new talent. The four winning designers, final year students at UK colleges/universities or recent graduates, will win the unique chance to exhibit at IJL in September, as well as attend a one-day mentoring workshop with leading jewellery experts in June. This workshop will help the winners maximise their IJL experience, reaping the benefits of exhibiting at the UK’s premier jewellery industry show.

 

Sarah Kitley-Spencer, Event Manager IJL, comments: “Both Lisa and Henry bring very valuable skill sets to the Bright Young Gems judging panel for 2018 and I am really pleased to welcome them on board. My thanks go also to both Charlie Boyd and Shaun Leane for all their input and support last year. The Bright Young Gems stand is always one of the IJL highlights and we look forward to providing these stars of the future with their first commercial platform, so they can take their first steps into business. I encourage all final year students to apply and they too could find themselves in the Bright Young Gems Hall of Fame alongside the likes of Tomasz Donocik and Imogen Belfield!”

 

Liza Urla, Jewellery Influencer, Jewellery Editor and Founder of Gemologue, Author of “Street Jewellery Styles & Styling Tips, said: “I am always on the lookout for exciting and innovative emerging designers for Gemologue. Bright Young Gems is an important initiative for young and up-and-coming designers who are about to dazzle the jewellery world with their exceptional talent and creativity. I am excited to help handpick the best of the new crop of talented designers that jewellery lovers need to know about!”

 

Henry Graham added: “The opportunity to be part of a great initiative like Bright Young Gems that so closely complements what we do at Wolf & Badger by also supporting independent brands, was one we couldn’t easily pass up. Like all of the brands we choose to work with, I will be looking for superlative quality of craftsmanship, differentiation in design approach and an element of commerciality.”

 

Bright Young Gems winner in 2017, Kristina Ferenchuk, concluded: “Bright Young Gems was a great opportunity for me to present my work in a very professional setting and get invaluable feedback on my work from the industry. The mentoring day that was organised prior to the show was incredibly useful, and during IJL I felt more confident and prepared, as well as making meaningful contacts.”

Applications are now open for the Bright Young Gems 2018.  Final year students at colleges and universities across the UK as well as graduates who are one to two years out of college can apply now.  Details of how to apply can be found at http://www.jewellerylondon.com/brightyounggems. The closing date for Bright Young Gems 2018 is May 9. 

 

For more information about Bright Young Gems at IJL 2018 please contact: Jennifer Hall-Thompson or Suzanna Hammond: +44 (0) 7770 802442  suzanna@hammondpr.co.uk

 

-ends-

Notes to Editors:

 

IJL 2018 will run from 2 to 4 September 2018 at Olympia GRAND, London.

For more information about IJL 2018 please contact:

Jennifer Hall-Thompson or Suzanna Hammond +44 (0) 7770 802 442 IJLPressoffice@reedexpo.co.uk

 

About International Jewellery London:

 

International Jewellery London is the UK’S leading trade event for the international jewellery industry. The event showcases the latest product ranges from over 520 high-end, finished jewellery manufacturers, designers, loose gemstones, and retail services suppliers. IJL attracts an unparalleled range of jewellery-focussed and pre-qualified buyers from 71 countries in an exclusive trading environment to do business, share knowledge and network in the heart of London, the UK’s style capital. Inspiring the industry for over 60 years, IJL showcases future industry trends, provides 100% free education and attracts an unrivalled selection of consumer and trade press.

 

IJL is sponsored by the NAJ and supported by the GIA, Gem-A, The Houlden Group, The Company of Master Jewellers, The Responsible Jewellery Council, The Goldsmiths Company and CIBJO. For further information, please visit www.jewellerylondon.com

 

About Reed Exhibitions

 

Reed Exhibitions is the world’s leading events organiser, with over 500 events in 30 countries. In 2016, Reed brought together over seven million event participants from around the world generating billions of dollars in business. Today Reed events are held throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific and Africa and organised by 40 fully staffed offices. Reed Exhibitions serves 43 industry sectors with trade and consumer events. It is part of the RELX Group plc, a world-leading provider of information solutions for professional customers across industries.

 

Jewellery and Fashion Accessories events are: Jewelers International Showcase (JIS) in January and April; Girls Jeweller Tokyo (IJT); Bijorhca Paris; JCK Tuscon; Tokyo Fashion Jewellery Expo (April); Garderobe; International Jewellery & Watch Show (JWS); International Jewellery Kobe (IJK); Luxury and JCK Las Vegas. For further information, please visit: www.reedexpo.com

 

 

Blog, Exhibiting, Industry, News

The IJL Journey: Discover the Career-Boosting Benefits of KickStart

by IJL • • 1 Comment

Our landmark initiative for emerging brands and talented designers is back for 2018! But in a change to previous years, we are looking for just SIX exceptional design stars to join us on the IJL Journey.

Since launching in 2009, KickStart has given jewellery designers the chance to start their industry careers in the most vibrant and engaging way possible; giving them access to our leading trade-only audience, buyers, retailers and leading mentoring programme.

What’s different about KickStart 2018?

It’s all change for KickStart in 2018. Our landmark initiative gives emerging UK-based designer jewellers  the chance to launch their concepts in the most dynamic way possible. We are looking for just SIX stand-out stars this year. Are you one of them?

KickStart is judged by IJL, the NAJ and London Jewellery Exports consultant, Aldyth Crowther.

How will KickStart benefit my emerging jewellery brand?

A shared KickStart stand slashes the cost of exhibiting, while our programme of promotion, benefits and complementary training increases your ROI. If you’ve got ambitions to be the next Stephen Webster, Shaun Leane, Solange Azagury-Partridge, ChloBo or Sif Jakobs, then KickStart is for you.

IJL 2017 KickStart
The IJL 2017 KickStarters are all smiles!

Some of the most innovative and inspiring jewellery designers working today started their careers with the help of KickStart, including Imogen Belfield, Jessica De Lotz, Phoebe Sherwood Moore of Phoebe Jewellery, Jenny Llewellyn, Mandana Oskui, Beth Gilmour, Kristjan Eyjolfsson, Sammi Jo Coxon, Hannah Bedford, Sian Bostwick, Gina Melosi, Anna Loucah, Cara Tonkin, Emily Richardson, Flora Bhattachary.

Still not convinced? Here are some other ways KickStart can benefit your small business and help it grow.

  • Guaranteed promotion to an international trade press audience, plus a dedicated KickStart web page, blog posts and social media campaign from IJL.
  • A KickStart Training Day in London that brings together leading industry advisors and specialists to guide you through business planning, pricing, intellectual property, PR and marketing, branding and more.
  • An invitation to the IJL Curated evening event, giving you to the chance to network with journalists, industry commentators and bloggers.
  • A London travel and accommodation bursary courtesy of the National Association of Jewellers. International applicants will be hosted by IJL.
  • Continued guidance and support after IJL 2018 to ensure you can make the most of your investment with us.

What is the KickStart People’s Choice Award?

Every KickStarter will be automatically entered into the People’s Choice Award, which gives the IJL community the chance to vote for their favourite new star via social media. The winner of this important accolade enjoys a dedicated press campaign, social media posts and trade coverage.

KickStart stand at IJL 2017
The KickStart shared stand at IJL 2017.

How do I apply for KickStart 2018?

KickStart opens for entries on January 22, 2018 and closes for entries on April 10, 2018.

Conditions for entry are as follows:

  • UK-based entrants must prove that their products are designed and made in the UK.
  • You must be able to take and fulfil orders from retailers.
  • Participants will be required to become a member of the NAJ (£181+VAT) – check out their website naj.co.uk to find out more.
  • You will need to be available to attend out KickStart Training Day on June 13, 2018.
  • All precious jewellery should be legally hallmarked.
  • Your business must be more than 12 months, but less than five years old.
  • Successful KickStarters will be required to pay £650 + VAT for the price of a stand at IJL.

To apply for KickStart, please click here. 

What is the IJL Journey?

As part of our IJL 365 approach, the IJL Journey extends far beyond our three-day trade event. It offers myriad career-boosting benefits, including a mentoring package, workshop days, ongoing pricing, branding and marketing support, and introductions to key industry figures.

This invaluable advice prepares each Bright Young Gem, KickStarter and Design Gallery Exhibitor to meet the 9,000 strong jewellery audience at IJL 2018, from September 2-4.

Discover more about the IJL Journey, here. 

IJL is #withyou offering career opportunities and the chance to grow your jewellery business, whether you are a student, recent graduate, emerging brand or established player. Speak to our team to find out more.