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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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!

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Instagram Marketing Strategies for Jewellers with Lou Chudley of Spark Social (podcast episode)

In this week's episode, Elin Horgan speaks with Instagram specialist Lou Chudley about the evolving landscape of Instagram marketing in 2025. They discuss the importance of Instagram for small businesses, recent updates to the platform, the shift towards video content, and effective strategies for engaging with audiences.

Lou emphasizes the value of showing the creative process and encourages listeners to embrace video and stories to connect with their followers. Lou also discusses common mistakes to avoid and provides creative content ideas to engage audiences.

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Get Creative with Silver Metal Clay: Join Our Free 5-Day Challenge (podcast episode)

In this week's episode, Jess and Anna discuss the exciting world of silver metal clay, a versatile material for creating beautiful jewellery at home. They introduce a free five-day course designed for beginners, covering various techniques and projects, including personalized jewellery, embellishments, eco-friendly practices, adding gold, and finishing techniques. Metal clay is a really accessible way for making silver jewellery and offers so many creative possibilities. Listen now to find out more!

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mastering the art of advanced stone setting with scott mcintyre (podcast episode)

Ready to take your stone-setting skills to the next level?

This week on the Jewellers Academy Podcast, Jess sits down with master stone setter Scott McIntyre to dive deep into the precision, tools, and artistry behind advanced techniques—especially fishtail setting.

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How Much Should Your Spend on Your Jewellery Training? - How to Finance Your Diploma & Training (podcast episode)

In this episode of the Jewellers Academy podcast, Jess and Anna discuss the financial aspects of jewellery training, exploring how much one should invest in their education and the importance of continuous learning. They share personal experiences and insights on overcoming financial fears, the value of investing in oneself, and practical solutions for financing training, including payment plans and selling jewellery.

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Upskilling in Jewellery: The Power of Masterclasses for Learning Advanced Stone Setting with iain sainsbury (podcast episode)

In this week's episode of the Jewellers Academy podcast, jeweller Iain Sainsbury shares his journey from corporate career to full-time jeweller, covering his unique signature style that incorporates advanced techniques like sand casting and stone setting. He reflects on his experiences of the Jewellers Masterclasses, the importance of community support, and the motivation behind his creative process. Iain also delves into the challenges of learning new skills and the satisfaction that comes from overcoming obstacles and mastering jewellery making techniques.

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