As headline subject partner of the National Saturday Club Art&Design programme, the Goldsmiths’ Company will play a key role in supporting the next generation of creatives.

This year, the Art&Design programme has enabled over 1,000 young people to explore more than 200 creative disciplines at free Saturday Clubs in 49 locations across the UK.

A report jointly published by organisations including the Design Council and Design and Technology Association in the summer of 2024, found that the number of pupils studying Design and Technology at GCSE had fallen by 68% in the last decade following its removal as a compulsory subject,

Lucy Kennedy, chief executive of the National Saturday Club, said: “We are deeply grateful to the Goldsmiths’ Company for their generous support of the National Saturday Club’s Art&Design programme. Their commitment helps us provide young people across the UK with the space to explore their creativity, build confidence, and imagine new futures.

“Art and design spans every aspect of the creative industries, and we are especially appreciative of partners like the Goldsmiths’ Company who recognise the long-term value of nurturing creative talent, not only for their own sector, but for society at large.”

Annie Warburton, CEO and clerk of the Goldsmiths’ Company said: “Our partnership is rooted in a shared ambition to equip young people with skills and connections to thrive in future careers in the creative industries, and beyond.

“We are excited by the opportunity to support the sustainability and growth of the Art&Design programme over the next three years, with the generous support of Goldsmiths’ Company members – reaching more young people, in more communities, across the UK. Together, we aim to spark curiosity and inspire experimentation and exploration by nurturing creative skills and design thinking – crafting careers for the next generation.”

Founded in 2009, the National Saturday Club gives 13 to 16-year-olds an opportunity to study subjects for free at their local university, college, and cultural institution.

The 10 recipients of the 2025 Emerging Business Bursary will each receive a gift of 400 grams of AgAIN silver bullion, made from reclaimed medical x-ray films, along with a 15% discount on tools.

The Emerging Business Bursary (EBB), launched in 2024, reimagines the Fair’s longstanding support for early career makers in recognition of the different routes that lead craftspeople into the trade.

The 2025 Emerging Business Bursaries have been awarded to Monica Findlay, Lucy Anderson, Isabella Bedlington, Wenyin Jiang, Liu Yang, Alice Biolo, Emma Lawrence, Francisca Onumah, Alewijn Slingerland and Gillian Finlay.

Harriet Scott, head of Goldsmiths’ Fair, said: “Goldsmiths’ Fair has proudly supported early career makers through bursary schemes since the year 2000. Whilst establishing yourself as an independent craftsperson has never been easy, over the last 25 years the rising costs of equipment, energy, materials, rates and rents, combined with record high prices for precious metals, have made it more challenging than ever before.

“Through this partnership with The Betts Group, and their generous gift of four kilograms of AgAIN silver bullion, the 10 recipients our 2025 Emerging Business Bursary are receiving a comprehensive package of support that will help them to have the first of many fantastic years exhibiting at Goldsmiths’ Fair.”

Charlie Betts, managing director of The Betts Group, added: “We’re thrilled to partner with Goldsmiths’ Fair in support of early career makers through the 2025 Emerging Business Bursary.

“The future of our trade relies on transparency and sustainability, and the 400 grams of AgAIN silver bullion that each of the bursary recipients will receive sets them on a course to make positive choices about their practice and its impact on the environment.”

The 15-piece range was designed and made by The Royal Mint’s craftspeople and draws on traditional techniques alongside contemporary styling. The collection is being sold exclusively through Mappin and Webb.

It forms part of a broader shift by The Royal Mint – historically known for producing UK coinage – to expand into new commercial areas, including jewellery manufacturing.

The pieces are made from gold extracted at The Royal Mint’s Precious Metals Recovery facility in south Wales, which uses technology developed by Canadian firm Excir to recover precious metals from discarded circuit boards.

The Royal Mint launched its own fine jewellery brand, 886 by The Royal Mint, in 2022.

Sean Millard, chief growth officer at The Royal Mint, said: “The Royal Mint’s collection for Mappin and Webb showcases our evolution as a heritage brand that is innovating and applying centuries of craftsmanship to new opportunities.”

Craig Bolton, president UK and Europe at The Watches of Switzerland Group, which operates Mappin and Webb, added: “We’re honoured to present this collection in Mappin and Webb’s 250th anniversary year.  It’s the perfect pairing as a commemorative expression of the work of two historic British brands, which share a commitment to excellence and sustainability.”

Kesah Trowell, group head of Sustainability and ESG, Watches of Switzerland Group, concluded: “We are proud to launch this exciting collection in partnership with The Royal Mint, which exemplifies our commitment to circularity and offering clients fully traceable fine jewellery. These striking pieces, created using a combination of cutting-edge technology and traditional techniques, tell a fascinating story of responsible sourcing, skilled craftmanship and sustainability.”

Purvi Shah from De Beers Group and Gaetano Cavalieri from CIBJO were re-elected to represent the producer and trade association forums respectively. Meanwhile, Antonio Samaniego of Minera Chalhuane joined Shah in the producer forum as a new board member.

New appointments also included Aagam Sanghavi of Accur8 Diamonds for the diamonds and gemstones trader/cutter/polisher forum, Alice Vanni of Italpreziosi for the precious metals traders, refiners and hedgers forum, and Leo Daguet of LVMH for the jewellery and watch manufacturer/wholesaler forum.

Additionally, Marianne Zani of Chanel was elected to represent the jewellery and watch retailer forum, while Didier Backaert of Bonas joined the board through the service industries forum.

The newly elected board members will be responsible for guiding the organisation’s strategic direction and ensuring its standards continue to meet the expectations of consumers, stakeholders, and the wider community. 

Dave Meleski, RJC chairman, said: “We are thrilled to welcome our new and returning Board members. Their collective experience across the entire jewellery and watch value chain will be invaluable as we continue to drive positive change and uphold the highest standards of integrity and sustainability within our industry. This diverse representation ensures that the RJC remains responsive to the needs and challenges of all our members.” 

John Hall, interim executive director, added: “The dedication and commitment of these individuals to the principles of responsible business are truly inspiring. We look forward to working collaboratively with them to advance the RJC’s mission and ensure that the jewellery and watch industry continues to be a force for good in the world. Their insights and leadership will be crucial as we navigate the evolving landscape of sustainability and ethical practices.” 

The pendant illustrates Chaumet’s desire to drive enhancements to ethical jewellery standards, combining “excellence”, “transparency” and “sustainability”.  

According to Chaumet, nature has been at the “heart of Chaumet’s identity since its founding more than 240 years ago”. 

The maison is a member of the Responsible Jewellery Council and conforms to the Kimberley Process, and actively contributes to the momentum of the LVMH Group’s LIFE 360 environmental programme through a host of concrete initiatives. 

As part of its responsible sourcing strategy, in 2025, it joined the Swiss Better Gold Association (SBGA), an organisation that supports artisanal mines in their sustainable development.

Additionally, Chaumet is already a partner of Reforest’Action and works to minimise its greenhouse gas emissions and the impact of its packaging. 

Now the jeweller is going even further by guaranteeing total traceability of the gold used in the new pendant creation. 

The pendant, embellished with a bee motif, as well as the chain, clasp and rings are made from 100% traceable gold derived from sustainable sources. 

Across the entire value chain, from the mine to the final creation of the jewellery, each step of the gold sourcing process is 100% verified, in accordance with strict specifications. 

Chaumet is therefore able to ensure that every gramme of gold making up the pendant comes from sources carefully selected in collaboration with trusted partners. 

 This step towards more ethical jewellery concretely advances Chaumet’s goal of progressively rolling out this principle across all its jewellery and High Jewellery collections.

Chaumet said: “Ambitious and assured, these multiple actions demonstrate the extent to which meaningful Chaumet jewellery is much more than just jewellery, the extent to which humans and nature are at the heart of all its projects and creations.” 

These collections will be on display and available to purchase at Dinny Hall’s flagship Notting Hill store.

La Maison Couture is an online platform dedicated to showcasing socially and environmentally conscious brands in the jewellery and lifestyle sector.

Dinny Hall, founder and creative director, said: “La Maison Couture have a brilliant and environmentally sound way of selecting jewellers that they exhibit. Our shared vision on sustainability and ethics lead us to this collaborative pop-up and we are so thrilled to be hosting at our Notting Hill store.”

Tania McNab, founder and CEO of La Maison Couture, added: “This is a milestone year for both Dinny Hall and La Maison Couture – celebrating 40 years and 10 years respectively – and we couldn’t be more thrilled to collaborate.

“It’s a celebration of Dinny’s incredible journey and an opportunity for us to support our brands as they continue to champion sustainability within their craft. Together, we are proud to shine a light on some of the most exciting and responsible jewellery makers shaping the future of the industry.”

Rare launched with the Desert Collection, which includes three designs: Desert Rose, Dune, and Desert Snow. Dune and Desert Rose are made from 18K gold sourced from LBMA-approved refineries and hallmarked by the BIS. Desert Snow is made from Pt950 platinum.

Each ring is produced through manufacturing processes that include the integration of PCBs, 6-axis motion sensors, and medical-grade temperature sensors. Technology is embedded using a resin casting process. The rings are available in sizes 5 to 14 and go through testing and quality control procedures.

Ultrahuman’s firmware is installed on each ring. Firmware updates are applied to support software functionality.

Jewelex integrates sustainability into every facet of its Rare’s manufacturing, operating on 100% renewable energy since January 2023.

Rainwater harvesting at its corporate headquarters further supports resource conservation. By continuously investing in clean energy and eco-friendly practices, it reaffirms its commitment to a “greener future” in fine jewellery.

Each Rare ring is first processed by Jewelex, then sent to Ultrahuman’s manufacturing facilities in Plano, Texas, and Bengaluru, India.

The new Ultrahuman Rare ring is now available at Selfridges in London and Pritemps Paris is Paris.
Bobby Kothari, jewellery CEO at Jewelex India Pvt Ltd, said: “The power of collaboration lies in the ability to bring together diverse strengths. This partnership demonstrates that when traditionally separate industries unite, the potential for growth and innovation is limitless. This is a prime example of how cross-industry synergy can redefine consumer experiences.”

Mohit Kumar, founder and CEO of Ultrahuman, added: “Our collaboration with Jewelex brings together two worlds: their legacy of craftsmanship and our expertise in cutting-edge health technology, redefining fine jewelry in the age of wearables.

“With Rare, we’re catering to individuals who want their health journey to be as elegant and meaningful as the rest of their lives. The possibilities ahead are limitless.”

The nationwide survey found that 25–34-year-olds buy jewellery nearly four times more often than those aged 65+, yet they favour quality over quantity and versatility over trend.

The research also found that for millennials, the figure is two-thirds, with many people adopting a “fewer and finer” approach.

Millennials spend an average of £245.70 per piece, 47% more than baby boomers, yet only 13% of millennials say they buy jewellery for trend or fashion reasons.

Alongside this, the research found that 56% of all consumers now shop exclusively for jewellery designed to be worn every day.

The data also reveals that Wales, South East England, and Central England lead the UK in jewellery purchase frequency.

Kate Hardcastle MBE, consumer expert and broadcaster, said: “Millennials are not buying jewellery to impress others—they’re buying to express themselves. The pieces they choose are intimate extensions of who they are and who they are becoming. After years of digital overload and throwaway culture, they’re seeking something tactile and lasting.”

Stephanie Cliffe, brand director at Azora, added: “One of the strongest signals from our research is that consumers have moved from impulse to intention. Creating a capsule collection is becoming a symbol of modern style, emotional maturity, and sustainability.”

Located at 58 King Street, M2 4LY, the new store marks an important milestone in the brand’s UK expansion, offering an immersive shopping experience for the local community.

The decision to open in Manchester follows years of cultivating a strong, engaged customer base in the city through Monica Vinader’s digital presence.

Drawing inspiration from organic textures and natural materials, the boutique incorporates elements such as stone, wood, and other thoughtfully sourced materials.

The design aligns with the brand’s values of “conscious design and long-lasting quality”.

Additionally, the boutique will offer a variety of personalised services including piercing, welding, engraving, and monogramming.

In line with Monica Vinader’s sustainability commitment, the boutique will also offer a gold and silver jewellery recycling programme, enabling customers to exchange old jewellery for a gift voucher towards their next purchase.

The brand also offers a five-year warranty and lifetime repair guarantee, with repairs and exchanges available at the new site.

Monica Vinader, founder of the eponymous brand, said: “We’re beyond excited to open our first boutique in Manchester, a city that has been such an important part of our journey. Over the years, we’ve been fortunate to build a strong, engaged community here, and we’re thrilled to bring the Monica Vinader experience to life for both our loyal customers and those just discovering our brand.

“This space is more than just a place to showcase jewellery: it’s about creating a meaningful, hands-on experience that reflects our passion for craftsmanship, sustainability, and personal connections. We can’t wait to see how customers engage with the store, its design, and the opportunity to make our pieces their own.”

It has been awarded in recognition of his “outstanding contributions” to the jewellery industry, particularly within the city of Birmingham, and his dedicated support for future generations through education.

Wroe has led Hockley Mint through a period of transformation, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of ethical manufacturing and innovation while staying true to its heritage in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.

Under his leadership, the business has not only grown but also strengthened its commitment to sustainability, apprenticeship development, and education within the industry.

This has been reflected in his support for numerous educational initiatives, including partnerships with local schools, colleges, and universities, and the development of in-house training and apprenticeship programmes.

His efforts have helped shape the next generation of jewellery professionals and ensured that skills and opportunities remain rooted in the local community. The award will be presented to Gary during the graduation ceremonies this December.

Wroe said: “Being recognised by The University of Birmingham with an honorary doctorate is extremely humbling and an absolute honour. Working in the jewellery industry for nearly 40 years has taught me a lot, and ensuring we have the skills and capabilities for a thriving industry in the future is key. Working with the Business School at the University of Birmingham over recent years has been rewarding and will always hold a special place in my heart.”