Jessica uses a combination of patterned and textured silver, fusing it with gold whilst often adding depth through part oxidation. Her designs are translated into elegant pieces with subtle textures and complex layered finishes. Find out a bit more about Jessica and her work in this months Q&A.
Describe your work in 3 words…
Stylish. Precious. Wearable.
What inspires you/your work?
Initial ideas can come from anything – a button, plant, pebble, painting – but it is the metal-working processes which enable me to interpret these ideas, that truly inspire me.
Silver is an amazing material to use and with the combination of gold, which is applied using an ancient Korean technique, plus a raft of processes developed over many years, I have unlimited and often unexpected potential to explore my themes.
If you weren’t a jewellery designer what do you think you would be?
Jewellery making/designing is my second career. My first degree was in textile design and I worked as a surface print designer for 10 years, before attending evening classes in metalwork.
The first time I struck metal with a hammer was a real ‘Eureka!’ moment from which I have never looked back.
Jewellery is very much my chosen and only career.
What tool can you not live without?
My wonderful, trusty Durston Rolling Mill, without which I could not apply my patterns and textures to silver.
Which famous person or personality would you most love to see wearing your jewellery?
Tamzin Grieg, the actress. She’s elegant, smart and witty. Or perhaps Kirsty Wark…
What is your favourite piece on lovedazzle?
I have always loved making chains, but the long Ervine Necklace by Joanne Thompson I think is really special and I could not conceive of making it myself!
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