Polishing Secrets for Jewellers: Tools, Techniques & Finishes (Podcast Episode)

In this week’s episode of the Jewellers Academy podcast, Jess and jeweller Kelly Twigg dive into the often underappreciated craft of polishing and finishing jewellery. Drawing on Kelly’s experience from the Diploma in Silver Jewellery, they explore the techniques, tools, and creative choices that bring a piece to life.

From filing and sanding to hand polishing and finishing styles, this conversation covers the essentials for jewellers at all levels. You’ll learn why quality tools matter, how different finishes influence the final look, and what safety measures are crucial in your workspace. Whether you’re refining your skills or just getting started, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration to enhance your jewellery-making journey.

Jessica RoseMay 19, 2025Comment

Look at what can be created with silver metal clay

Silver metal clay might feel simple at first — soft, malleable, easy to shape.

But in the right hands, it becomes something extraordinary.

In this post, we’re sharing a few pieces created by tutors on the Diploma in Silver Metal Clay. These are artists who started where you are now - and now create work that’s exhibited, sold, collected, and loved.

Jessica RoseMay 17, 2025Comment

win £1000 to spend on jewellery tools, materials or training - the jewellers academy support fund for may

It's time for the Jewellers Academy Support Fund – May edition. Every other month, we’re giving £1,000 to a jeweller to invest in growing their business – and how you spend it is entirely up to you. Plus, the winner will also receive a 1-hour mentoring session in either business or jewellery making to help take things to the next level.

Diploma Diaries - Kelly Twigg's thoughts on the Diploma in Silver Jewellery

Artisan jeweller Kelly Twigg of Willow and Twigg Jewellery has been taking the Diploma in Silver Jewellery with us this year (2024/25) and sharing her journey weekly via her Instagram Diploma Diaries. We took the opportunity to ask her about why she chose the Diploma in Silver Jewellery, what her experience has been like and her tips for navigating the course successfully.

Jessica RoseMay 14, 2025Comment

Discover the Diploma in Silver Metal Clay — Insights from Students, Mentors, and Tutors

If you’re curious about the Diploma in Silver Metal Clay, this video of our live open day offers an inside look at what the course has to offer.

Hosted by Anna Campbell (Community Manager and Tutor on the course), the panel includes mentors Vicky Ralph and Jo Richards, graduates Samantha and Julia and current student Niloo. Together, they share their experiences and insights about the Diploma journey exploring the course content, support on the course and the benefits of working with silver metal clay.

Jessica RoseMay 13, 2025Comment

How to Build a Jewellery Business You Can Leave Your Job For (Podcast Episode)

In this week’s episode of the Jewellers Academy podcast, Jessica Rose dives into what it really takes to build a sustainable and fulfilling jewellery business - one that can eventually replace your day job. From mastering your finances and identifying bestsellers to setting realistic salary expectations, Jessica shares practical insights and strategies for making the leap into full-time entrepreneurship. You’ll learn why staying under the VAT threshold can benefit small businesses, how strong profit margins keep your business sustainable, and why continuous learning and creativity are key to long-term success. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, this episode offers valuable advice, honest reflections, and encouragement for every step of the journey.

Jessica RoseMay 12, 2025Comment

10 Steps to Building a Jewellery Business You Can Leave Your Job For - Free Webinar

Do you dream of a more creative life? One where you get to wake up every morning and be excited to start your day?

Where you don’t dread Mondays anymore? Where you get to work with your hands and your creativity to create wearable art?

If the answer is yes, I have a brand new very exciting free training for you.

Jessica RoseMay 7, 2025Comment

10 Things No One Tells You about Setting Up and Running a Jewellery Shop with Tori Foster (podcast episode)

In this week’s episode of the Jewellers Academy Podcast, Anna Campbell sits down with jeweller and shop owner Tori Foster to talk about the real journey of opening a jewellery shop — the trials, the joys, and everything in between. Tori shares how she made the leap from maker to shop owner, revealing the ten things no one tells you about setting up and running a jewellery store.

PodcastJessica RoseMay 4, 2025Jewelry businessComment

lifelong learning for diploma students: a look at new projects for 2025 (podcast episode)

In this week’s episode of the Jewellers Academy Podcast, we’re diving into all the exciting updates to our Diploma program. Join us as we explore the new projects, enhanced techniques, and fresh resources designed to take your jewellery-making skills to the next level.

We share insights on the journey from beginner to skilled jeweller, with a focus on mastering polishing, finishing, advanced stone setting, and finding making techniques. Plus, we highlight the importance of recycling silver and introduce brand-new projects, including the much-anticipated solitaire ring as well as sea glass jewellery.

You'll also hear more about the lifetime access students have to course materials, ongoing updates, and the powerful community support that makes the Diploma experience so special. If you're considering starting or growing your jewellery journey, this is your invitation to take the leap!

Jessica RoseApril 28, 2025Comment

Meet the Diploma Graduates

If you’ve ever wondered about who does our Diploma courses and what they go on to do with their jewellery career, check out this Meet the Diploma Graduates. With a jeweller getting accepted at prestigious fine jewellery events, a jeweller opening her own shop with teaching space and one whose Instagram following has passed 50k and who is now being sent tools to promote (the dream!) - this is an inspiring watch.

Jessica RoseApril 26, 2025Comment

Learning Never Stops: The Surprising Benefits of Revisiting Jewellery Skills with Iris Van Steenwinckel (podcast episode)

In this weeks episode of the Jewellers Academy Podcast, Kim Thomson talks with goldsmith and educator Iris, whose unique journey through jewellery and cultural sciences has shaped two distinct jewellery brands and a passion for teaching. Iris shares how her creatively rich upbringing and formal training led her to a multifaceted career, balancing bespoke design with a commercial line, all while running hands-on workshops for aspiring makers. Covering the art of jewellery making, the value of continuous learning, and how the Jewellers Academy Silver Diploma helped Iris refine her skills and grow in confidence. This is an episode packed with wisdom, tips and inspiration.

PodcastJessica RoseApril 21, 2025Jewelry businessComment

Jewellery workshops worth travelling for

Thinking of learning jewellery making in person? Jewellers Academy Brighton is now open! Located on England’s south coast, we offer expert-led, in-person workshops seven days a week. Whether you're local or travelling from abroad, it’s worth the journey — with students already flying in from the USA and Vietnam for our Diploma course. Explore our Intensive Diploma, 5-day Intensives, Masterclasses, and more.

Jessica RoseApril 10, 2025Comment

Creating Fine Jewellery - Advice from a Goldsmith with April Dace (podcast episode)

In this episode of the Jewellers Academy Podcast, jeweller and tutor April Dace dives into the art and precision behind her Tiara Wedding Ring masterclass. With over a decade of experience in fine jewellery, April shares invaluable insights into bespoke design, stone setting, and how to craft bands that perfectly frame existing rings.

PodcastJessica RoseApril 7, 2025Jewelry businessComment

From Fine Art to Fret Saws: The Accidental Jewellery Journey of ‘I Am Acrylic’ (podcast episode)

If you love hearing how other jewellers found their way into the industry, this episode is for you! This week, Elin Horgan chats with Ruth and Brendan from I Am Acrylic, a duo who never planned to be jewellers but found themselves falling in love with the craft.

PodcastJessica RoseMarch 31, 2025Jewelry businessComment

10 Mistakes Jewellers Make With Their Pricing (podcast episode)

Pricing your jewellery correctly is one of the most important—and challenging—aspects of running a successful business. In this episode of the Jewellers Academy Podcast, Jess breaks down the 10 biggest pricing mistakes jewellers make and how to avoid them.

From undercharging for your time to overlooking hidden costs, we cover the most common pitfalls that could be holding your business back. You’ll learn why comparing prices with competitors can be misleading, how discounting impacts your brand value, and why pricing is an ongoing process rather than a one-time decision.

If you’re ready to take control of your pricing, increase your profits, and feel confident charging what your work is worth, this episode is for you.

PodcastJessica RoseMarch 24, 2025Jewelry businessComment

win £1000 to spend on jewellery tools, materials or training - the jewellers academy support fund for march

It's time for the Jewellers Academy Support Fund – March edition. Every other month, we’re giving £1,000 to a jeweller to invest in growing their business – and how you spend it is entirely up to you. Plus, the winner will also receive a 1-hour mentoring session in either business or jewellery making to help take things to the next level.

SEO for Jewellers: How to Optimize Your Website with Aime Cox from Studio Cotton (podcast episode)

In this week's episode, Kim Thomson chats with Aime Cox from Studio Cotton about her journey as an entrepreneur, the importance of passion in business, and how to make SEO accessible and engaging for small businesses.

They discuss the power of SEO over social media, the significance of optimizing product descriptions, and leveraging trends for product collections. Aime also shares practical tips for enhancing online presence, including the importance of product descriptions, photography, and regular website updates.

PodcastJessica RoseMarch 17, 2025Jewelry businessComment

How to make Sea Glass Jewellery

Sea glass jewellery is a lovely style of jewellery making bringing together nature and craftsmanship, transforming weathered glass fragments into stunning, wearable art. Each piece of sea glass has been naturally shaped and frosted by the ocean, making it truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you're drawn to the organic charm of tumbled glass or the timeless elegance of silver settings, there are several ways to turn your beachcombing treasures into unique jewellery. In this post, we’ll explore the most popular techniques—drilling, bezel setting, and claw setting—along with expert tips and tricks to help you create your own sea glass jewellery with confidence.

Jessica RoseMarch 12, 2025Comment

5 Top Tips for Making Sea Glass Jewellery with Kelly Twigg (podcast episode)

In this week's episode, I’m joined by Kelly Twigg, and we’re talking all things sea glass. She shares her top 5 tips including how to find the best pieces, different ways to set them, and the do’s and don’ts of drilling (because yes, sea glass can crack if you're not careful!). Whether you're just starting out or already working with sea glass, Kelly’s expert advice will help you take your designs to the next level. Plus, she spills the details on her brand-new sea glass jewellery course—currently at a special discounted price!

Opening my Dream Jewellery Shop After Completing the Diploma in Silver Jewellery - with Alice Catherine Jewellery (podcast episode)

This week on the Jewellers Academy podcast, Jess is chatting with the amazing Alice of Alice Catherine Jewellery about her journey from total beginner to running her own thriving jewellery business on the Isle of Lewis, Scotland. Alice shares the highs and lows of building her brand, growing her team, and what it’s really like to run a jewellery shop in a remote location. We also dive into her experience with the Diploma in Silver Jewellery — how it shaped her skills and gave her the confidence to go pro. Plus, we talk about the power of community, mentoring, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. If you’re dreaming of turning your jewellery passion into a business, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration!