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What is a Hallmark? A hallmark is a mark or symbol stamped on precious metals to certify the quality and purity of the metal. It serves as a guarantee of authenticity and is often used by manufacturers and makers alike to distinguish their products from counterfeit pieces. Why are Hallmarks Important? By looking at a hallmark on a piece of jewellery or silverware, you can determine the metal content and quality of the item as well as confirm where it was made, who by and when. This information is crucial when purchasing valuable pieces, as it ensures that you are getting what you pay for. Types of Hallmarks There are different types of hallmarks used around the world, each with its own unique symbols and meanings. Common hallmarks include the purity mark, the maker's mark, the date mark, and the assay office mark. Decoding a Hallmark The purity mark indicates the metal content, such as 925 for sterling silver or 750 for 18ct gold. The maker's mark identifies the manufacturer/ maker, while the date mark reveals the year the item was made. Next time you come across a piece of jewellery or silverware with a hallmark, you'll know that it's more than just a small stamp—it's a symbol of quality, authenticity, and craftsmanship. Understanding hallmarks can help you make informed purchasing decisions and appreciate the value of your precious metal items.

I had the privilege of creating custom jewellery for Annabel Scholey for this years’ BAFTA awards ceremony.      Taking inspiration from the beautifully androgynous dress by Alice Temperley, I created these statement Carla Earrings from sterling silver (oxidised) and freshwater pearls. Both to add contrast and to mirror the beautiful buttons on the dress. A matching ring for added statement, just one pearl on here for just a touch of contrast.    These statement earrings will be available to order soon.    Sarah 

Lab grown vs. natural diamonds When it comes to choosing a diamond, the decision between lab grown and natural diamonds can be a tough one. Both options have their own unique qualities and benefits, so it's important to understand the differences before making a choice. What are Lab Grown Diamonds? Lab grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment that replicates the natural process of diamond formation. These diamonds have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, but they are made in a fraction of the time. What are Natural Diamonds? Natural diamonds, on the other hand, are formed deep within the earth's mantle over millions of years. These diamonds are mined from the earth and have been a symbol of luxury and romance for centuries. Which is More Affordable? Lab grown diamonds are more affordable than natural diamonds. This is because the process of creating lab grown diamonds is more cost-effective than mining for natural diamonds. So, if you're looking for a budget-friendly option, lab grown diamonds may be the best choice. Which is More Environmentally Friendly? When it comes to sustainability, lab grown diamonds or Ocean Diamonds are the more suitable options. The process of creating lab grown diamonds produces less carbon emissions and has a smaller environmental footprint compared to mining for natural diamonds. However, Ocean Diamonds are dived by hand off the coast of Africa with no mining involved at all. Although lab grown diamonds are not free from mining altogether, as the minerals must be mined - the overall impact is less. So, if you're eco-conscious, opting for a lab grown diamond or Ocean Diamond are both great choices. Final Thoughts Whether you choose a lab grown diamond or a natural diamond, both options are beautiful and unique in their own way. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and what is most important to you. Whichever you choose, know that you are getting a  timeless stone that will last a lifetime.  

We are thrilled to have had our Oona Eternity Ring selected by Goldsmiths Fair to show at Collect for their 100 Rings exhibit, alongside artist-makers and galleries from around the world.  Presented by Crafts Council, Collect is the leading international art fair for contemporary craft and design. In the impressive setting of Somerset House, London, galleries and makers from around the world come together to showcase the best craft being made today, spanning disciplines including ceramics, glass, lacquer, textiles, paper, jewellery and metalwork. Visit Goldsmiths' Fair on Stand E11, East Wing, Somerset House, London from 28 February to 2 March (Previews 26 & 27 February). Book your tickets here

If you're going to be choosing a wedding ring, here’s a guide to the most important things to think about.   The design Your wedding ring is undoubtedly one of the most meaningful pieces of jewellery you’ll ever wear, so it’s important to spend time thinking about what you do and don’t want. You might have a clear idea of what you like, but equally you might find it hard to pinpoint. You might consider pairing matching bands for simplicity or mixing styles to create a more textured look. We have a range of designs you can browse for inspiration here. Traditionally wedding rings are a plain gold band, however in recent years we've made a lot of eternity rings as wedding bands. These would traditionally be given for the birth of your first child.  If you like a design of ours but would like to personalise it (perhaps with your own gemstone), talk to us about customising a ring. If you’d like to commission Sarah to create completely bespoke wedding rings, just get in touch. The balance The way your wedding ring feels and looks alongside other rings makes a big difference. Think about how it will sit next to your engagement ring, and whether you'd like to create negative space (empty space between the two) or for them to sit closely together. It’s worth bearing in mind that both rings need to be the same carat of metal to avoid wearing each other down.   The size When it comes to getting the right fit, we can post you our ring-sizing kit and talk you through how to use it. The main thing to think about is that it shouldn't be too loose. The sizer should slide on easily but be a wriggle to get off.    The materials We always suggest 18ct gold for wedding rings, for its beauty and longevity. It's technically softer than 9ct gold, however it’s much less brittle, so actually harder wearing in the long term.   The cost The prices of our ready-made designs are available on our website, while customised designs will depend on how much the original design is, as well as the level of personalisation you’d like to make. Our fully bespoke process starts at £2,000 and will depend on the design and materials you have in mind. Before getting in contact about commissioning a bespoke ring, it's helpful to think about how much you might like to spend. Then we can give you some options and an idea of how we can bring your vision to life within your budget.     The lead time Our wedding ring designs take 3-4 weeks to make. However, if you’re looking to customise a design, please get in touch and we’ll be able to let you know how long it will take. If you would like to commission a bespoke piece, the process generally takes six to eight weeks. If you let us know the wedding date, we can work towards getting you the finished pieces in good time.   The process Choosing a wedding ring should feel like one of the most personal and enjoyable parts of planning a wedding. We like to work closely with our clients to really understand their style and their story, to help them find or bring their perfect ring to life. You can find out more about the way we like to work here.

With the hugely popular BBC show 'The Split' returning for a Christmas Special tonight, I'm delighted to reveal the pieces that were styled by Ray Holman for the two-part drama set in Barcelona. Nina played by Annabel Scholey wore: Harriet Necklace, Bella Ring Multiple, Chunky Ivana Hoops, Double Ivana Half Eternity Ring Liv played by Elizabeth Roberts wore: Princess Cut Diamond Ring, Ivana Ring Simple Gael played by Alex Guersman wore: 4mm Signature Wedding Band     Production company: Sister Pictures

    The incredibly talented Annabel Scholey, who played Ann-Marie Blake in the BAFTA award-winning series The Sixth Commandment, wore three of our statement pieces to the awards show on Sunday 12 May. Annabel, who also starred in the BBC drama The Split and The Serial Killer's Wife on Paramount +, paired her incredible statement dress by Alexander McQueen with our Carla Necklace, Bella Earrings Multiple and the Bella Ring Multiple.                         

We're absolutely delighted to announce that our Oona Eternity Ring was awarded Silver for 'Commercial Fine Jewellery' at the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council Awards 2024.  Inspired by our core geometry, the Oona Eternity Ring showcases one fluid, free-flowing form, featuring clean lines that interweave with one edge embellished with champagne Ocean Diamonds. Even in the unseen aspects of a design, detail matters to us. In this ring, the fluidity of form is just as evident inside as on the outside. We’ve designed this ring as an independent piece that can stand alone, so the curves have space to flow, crossover and softly taper.

We're delighted to announce that we're taking part in the beautiful annual showcase, tf LOVE Ring. You can browse our fine jewellery from Saturday 20 April to Saturday 22 June at tom foolery gallery in Muswell Hill, as part of their celebration of love in all its forms.  109 Fortis Green Road Muswell Hill  London N10 3HP  

If you're looking for a special gift for a birthday or anniversary, it can be a lovely touch to include a birthstone. The table below shows which gemstones relate to  birth months, also known as birthstones. If you'd like to commission a bespoke piece featuring one of these, please get in touch. You can find out more about our bespoke process here.  For pieces like engagement or wedding rings that are worn all the time, we always recommend diamonds and sapphires due their strength and durability. However, for earrings, necklaces/pendants or even occasional rings, other gemstones can be perfect.