From July 7th to 9th, Goldsmiths North collaborated with the Institute of Professional Goldsmiths (IPG) to showcase high-quality jewellery from vetted artisans. The summer fair, held at the iconic Cutlers Hall in Sheffield, provided a platform for UK-based contemporary artisans to display their beautiful work. Bibi Cheung FIPG, founder of TVRRINI, presented several jewellery pieces to highlight our application of traditional goldsmithing methods in creating unique and creative pieces.
Jewellery from the Kara, Nisi, and Lava collections took centre-stage, as well as finished pieces from the newly unveiled Regal Fantasy collection. One of the pieces most frequently asked about was our Glowing Sun pendant necklace. Crafted from sterling silver, it resembles a sun cheerfully smiling in the style of a folklore character, sparkling with rubies and a faceted citrine drop in the centre. Each piece is realised from fine sculpting techniques, and features an eclectic mix of coloured gemstones framed in precious metal, the latest pieces exemplifying our dedication to creating pieces that are as delightful to adorn as they are to look at.
The fair attracted visitors from the North and beyond, with Sheffield's rich history of manufacturing, particularly in the steelworks and silversmithing sectors, contributing to the city's appeal. Over the past two decades, Sheffield has provided business opportunities to emerging makers looking to improve their skills. Students enrolled in Sheffield Hallam University's silversmithing programme were also in attendance, likely seeking inspiration. Graduates from the university, as well as early-career makers, made their mark in the exhibiting crowd and this only gave our team renewed hope that all kinds of companies have a support network behind them to grow their presence.
The fair, in its third year, featured more than 50 of the finest craftspeople across the UK showcasing their works. Its organising company started five years ago by way of inspiration from Goldsmiths Fair, the UK’s premier destination for shopping fine jewellery, silverware, and small-works with 40 years of history. Like its older counterpart, visitors to Goldsmiths North had the opportunity to purchase unique jewellery pieces as gifts or for themselves, while also engaging with exhibitors to learn more about their process and creative stimulation. The Northern region is filled with hard-working designer-makers and we feel it will attract interest in upcoming years with the vision of the fair to promote the excellence these individuals strive for.
Although time was limited, we managed to briefly visit Sheffield's central landmarks, including the Sheffield City Cathedral and the Millennium Gallery, which features a permanent metalwork collection and offers insights into the city's industrial heritage through its high-quality objects on display.
