“Evolution” Success in Goldsmiths’ Competition 2025

I was absolutely delighted to receive an award for this necklace and earrings at the Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Awards. They are the latest in a series of pieces which are inspired by fossils especially ammonites. The necklace comprises a central pendant which features a gold cloisonné enamel spiral shape which also features engraving under the enamel. The silver surround is engraved to reflect the striations in rocks where they are found. The necklace is strung with freshwater pearls and also features a box snap clasp with a similar enamel design. The earrings are matching and also feature moissanites set in 18ct gold on the ear fittings. The clasp nearly didn’t make it as it was missing in action for more than a week when it pinged off whilst I was polishing it! It’s fair to say I was very upset and I can’t describe my elation when I found it sitting on a shelf behind a pot of enamel! Hidden in plain sight and I had literally dismantled my studio looking for it!

It is always an exciting night to visit the awards ceremony at Goldsmiths Hall in London and this year was even better as a number of my enamelling friends also won awards. Afterwards we went out for a meal and much wine was drunk in celebration!

Evolution has evolved from a long time fascination with fossils. We used to spend hours as a family hunting for them on beaches when my son was young. Ammonites are a theme I have been exploring through different techniques in enamel for many years. The pandemic in 2020 allowed me to take time out to develop new techniques and ways of working. Evolution arose out of this strange and difficult time.