Curious Gem unveils Edinburgh uni jewellery and silversmithing bursary

Edinburgh supplier the Curious Gem has launched a new bursary for jewellery and silversmithing students in partnership with the University of Edinburgh’s Edinburgh College of Art.

The annual award will support a third-year student as they move into their final year of study on the BA (Hons) jewellery and silversmithing course.

The scheme is intended to help students meet tuition, materials and living costs during their final year, with selection made by an academic panel on artistic merit and the expected impact of the funding on a student’s development.

Victoria Brown, founder and director, said: “It is a privilege to be able to support a new generation of jewellers and silversmiths through our bursary at Edinburgh College of Art.”

The 2025 award has gone to third-year student Roo Nicholson, whose practice explores themes of memory, home and everyday experience through reflective, narrative-led pieces. Nicholson’s work was described by the panel as thoughtful and imaginative.

Nicholson added: “It’s an honour to have been chosen for this award and to have the growing support of the Curious Gem team. I’ve been able to stop my part-time job and dedicate more of my time to improving my studio skills and developing my final-year project. With the rising cost of silver and the expense of exhibiting at New Designers in London, this bursary has given me the freedom to fully engage with my studies.”

The Curious Gem, founded in Edinburgh, supplies materials, tools and gemstones to makers and supports both established jewellers and emerging designers. The company said the bursary forms part of its wider commitment to craftsmanship and education.