On Becoming a Freeman and Giving Back to the Community - TVRRINI Jewellery

Shaping the jewellery world

August 1, 2024 Katerina Spinos

On 3rd July, we were thrilled to see Bibi become admitted into the Freedom of the Goldsmiths' Company in London, a significant milestone for any craftsperson. It is a seal of approval, a recognition of skill and dedication to the craft, further having a place among the Great Twelve Livery Companies of the City of London. But what does that mean for us to be among this prestigious organisation?

It's a cause for reflection because it reminds us of why we started our jewellery brand. Through a story echoed by so many: a global pandemic, the dawn of lockdown and its sporadic extensions, and a desire to respond in some way with 21st-century values.

In late 2019, Bibi was beginning to flesh out the concept of TVRRINI as a pivot from being a producer for the jewellery trade. The pandemic was an opportunity to build it further.

Bibi signing her name at the Goldsmiths' Hall

Bibi signs her name in a book with other members' names, presented by Anne-Christina Warburton, Clerk and CEO of the Goldsmiths’ Company. Image credit: The Goldsmiths' Company.

Having developed her craft of goldsmithing in London, her journey with precious metal began in 1989 and since then has been multi-faceted: establishing a successful jewellery school in Hong Kong, and then almost 20 years providing bespoke services and manufacturing for brands across Southeast Asia, Europe, and the United States. While this was a varied path that built trusted global relationships, she wanted to create a brand grounded in an authentic vision. In other words, a new chapter was ready to happen.

Classic design with thoughtful craft is at the heart of what we do. From our artisanal process to scale of production, our small, family-run business is placed in London with concept and quality in mind, to ensure our jewellery is made for people -- the kind who think "I will keep this ring for my entire life." Beyond that, supporting future precious metalworkers is key for TVRRINI.

Bibi, displaying her certificate, stands next to Richard Reid, the 697th Prime Warden of The Goldsmiths’ Company. Image credit: The Goldsmiths' Company.

The youth of today need to be in the right place to learn new skills from trade professionals. Talent only thrives when there is a flourishing support network. On the other hand, Heritage Craft states that finding young apprentices for specialist areas like engraving, polishing, and plating is a challenge that grows by the day on a national level.

That is why, besides leading our design and production, Bibi has been working with The Goldsmiths' Centre to train people in design and production. From day-release apprentices to professionals wanting to develop their technique, all the knowledge TVRRINI is sharing is helping support the community who keep craft alive. In the last two years, we’ve helped tens of day-release apprentices and designer-makers develop their techniques with visible.

Bibi with Katerina and Harris at the Freedom Ceremony in Goldsmiths' Hall.

This prestigious honour is a testament to the values TVRRINI is built on: craft, design, and versatility. Our work doesn't stop here. We look forward to how the Goldsmiths' Company community will hold each of our team members to the high expectation that is needed to be admitted into Freedom, but also challenge us to evolve and extend our aims to grow our design-led practices.

Special thanks to The Goldsmiths' Company.