BAJ partners with Martin’s Gems
Each learner is entrusted with one of these ‘masterfully’ crafted gemstones, which will serve as the focal point for their upcoming jewellery design
The British Academy of Jewellery (BAJ) has announced a new partnership with UKFCG-certified advance cutter Martin Prinsloo of Martin’s Gems.
Prinsloo has generously provided BAJ’s Level 5 Jewellery Design and Manufacturing students with access to his hand-cut gemstones, including varieties such as Rhodolite Garnet, Lavender Quartz and Topaz.
Each learner is entrusted with one of these “masterfully” crafted gemstones, which will serve as the focal point for their upcoming jewellery design.
According to BAJ, this project offers BAJ’s aspiring jewellers an opportunity to create a piece of jewellery that not only “captivates with innovative design and manufacturing skills but also pays homage to Martin’s extraordinary skill in the art of stone cutting”.
Martin’s Gems is a gem-cutting London-based business. Having previously worked with BAJ as a sponsor for ‘Precision and Technical Excellence’ and ‘Statement Jewellery’ Awards, they are now expanding this partnership.
Prinsloo said: “To make it interesting and challenging all ten stones are of different colour,species,size and cut design. All are fairly big gemstones between 10-14mm on average and polished to perfection.
“The brief to the students was that the gems should be the focal point of the design. The design should accentuate and compliment the gem design, cut, colour and shape. The idea is to simulate the exposure to the students of making a statement piece for a high-end customer which will prepare them better for the trade after graduation.”
He added: “Over the years, I noticed that the students really do make exceptional jewellery pieces but they often encounter the issue of low student budgets- meaning they can’t afford or source top-end high-quality gemstones for that final finishing of their pieces.
“Hopefully, by filling that missing link with beautiful Martinsgems, these students will be able to not only make exceptional pieces but also be able to position themselves better to walk into the trade after graduation.”
Lily Henderson, BAJ Jewellery Diploma coordinator, concluded: “This collaboration encourages students to showcase their creativity and technical prowess, transcending traditional boundaries in design and manufacturing. By harnessing their individual strengths and interests, each learner is poised to craft a unique and extraordinary masterpiece, destined to become a standout addition to their professional portfolio upon completion of the Level 5 Diploma with BAJ.
“This partnership not only amplifies Martin’s passion and generosity in fostering the next generation of jewellers but also enhances our learner’s learning experience and provides them with a rare opportunity to work with exceptional gemstones,setting the stage for their entry into the industry. We eagerly await the unveiling of the breathtaking creations that will emerge from this collaboration between Martin’s Gems and BAJ.”
