Five minutes with London based goldsmith and designer, Jessie Thomas.
Who inspired you to become a goldsmith?
I inherited the craft from my father, David Thomas, he’s a master goldsmith and has been making handmade jewellery for over 40 years.
What materials do you use?
I use a mixture of recycled gold and fairtrade metals as well as a range of ethically sourced diamonds and antique stones.
Who is your typical customer?
I share a shop with my father in a prime location in Chelsea and as a result of this, I receive a high volume of business from passers-by. I make a lot of bespoke engagement rings for couples as well as repairs or reworks for those that have been married for 50 years or more. My jewellery appeals to a wide range of people, it’s one of the things I love about creating such pieces, they transcend trends and generations.
What sets you apart from your competitors?
Every goldsmith has different tips and tricks they have picked up and passed down over the years; we all have a unique skill set. I hand carve pieces in wax to cast which is a tradition that goes back thousands of years. It’s a great way to ensure fine details and complex components are created accurately and it’s fairly unusual.
What influence has your father had on your career?
He’s had a huge impact on my career as he taught me everything I know. He’s reiterated the importance of the need for a piece to be wearable and beautifully made, it’s at the core of what I do.
What do you love most about creating bespoke pieces?
Working with a client and turning a vision into a reality. I find it creatively fulfilling to constantly work on new pieces, it pushes me forward in my designs and techniques. I love that I’m always learning and developing.
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minkajewels.com
@minkajewels
Garrard, W1S
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garrard.com
@garrard
Rachel Boston, E2
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rachelboston.co.uk
@rachelbostonjewellery
David Morris, W1S
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davidmorris.com
@davidmorrisjeweller
Stephen Webster, W1K
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stephenwebster.com
@stephenwebsterjewellery
Jessica McCormack, W1K
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jessicamccormack.com
@jessica_mccormack
Liv Luttrell, EC1
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livluttrell.com
@livluttrell
Kiki McDonough, SW3
Elevating everyday jewellery that combines colourful gemstones and traditional styles, Kiki McDonough showcases her passion for jewellery through innovative and contemporary designs. Her Signatures Collection exudes light and warmth alongside colour and vivacity and includes Lemon Quartz, Amethyst, Peridot and Blue Topaz. Kiki’s work displays pure feminine elegance.
kiki.co.uk
@kikimcdonough
Theo Fennell, SW1W
In hopes their work will delight and enchant for generations, Theo Fennell creates unique jewellery to suit every style including some incredibly unique pieces such as their Ruby Venymn Ring collection. With a great appreciation for technical skill and craftsmanship the team at Theo Fennell follow the great traditions of British jewellery while at the forefront of new techniques and materials.
theofennell.com
@officaltheofennell
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