Making jewellery that will interact and delight the wearer using just three components: gold, silver and gemstones, is a task that demands total knowledge of the important elements: the design aspect and precision craftsmanship.

I describe my style as contemporary, yet timeless, bold modern perhaps, often asymmetrical but always balanced. Take my combination of materials. While most goldsmiths would set diamonds and precious gems in gold or platinum, I use sterling silver with 18ct gold as detail, but what the eye sees first is the brilliant faceted Jewel in silver. There is something startling and contemporary about the juxtaposition of the precious stone and the less formal metal.

I incorporate large (some weigh 20-30cts) gemstones in most of my designs: Aquamarine, Tanzanite, Amethyst, Peridot, Topaz, Citrine, Tourmaline, Moonstone and such rare and most valued stones such as: Boulder Opals and Green and Mandarin Garnets. I'm always fascinated by natural inclusions, internal crevices and bubbles that you can detect in some of the gem cabochons. I personally like them, it seals their authenticity. Their shape is inspiration to create a sculptural piece and the translucency and vibrant colour enhance the metal. Faceted, these stones display and array of colour-play and adorn the skin.

Each piece is completely handmade by me, using few and simple tools and a lot of time. I never start with a drawing of the finished piece, it's too limited. I start with the stone and see where it leads me, changing the composition as I go along. A distinct finish is applied to the metal surface which is unmistakably recognisable and exclusive to my designs. The melting and hammering of the silver is another technique that I use to achieve reflection, movement and texture.

A record with photograph of each item is carefully catalogued. None of my large pieces are ever repeated, they remain “once-off”.

Please contact me by email nugoldsmith@gmail.com regarding purchases and commissions.
I welcome all inquiries and comments.

Niamh Utsch