Developing a unique signature style as a jeweller
Blog
As part of the new book ‘Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business’ with Jessica Rose, a handful of talented and successful, handmade jewellers were invited to be interviewed about various different elements of their business.
In the second chapter of the book Jess looks at the importance of having a standout signature style as a jeweller, something which all established, successful jewellers have in common and will have been developed over time.
Jess explains what having a signature style means, how to work out what your style is and what makes you unique, as well as how to build a cohesive collection. And to give an example of a jeweller who has mastered their own unique style, Jess invited the lovely Angela Benjamin of Ange B Designs to talk a bit more about how she found her identity as a jeweller.
This is what Angela had to say…
Angela in her studio
How long have you been a jeweller for?
I’ve only recently (past 2 years) started calling myself a ‘jeweller’. Not being formally trained, I’ve had to talk myself out of a lot of imposter syndrome.
How did you start making jewellery?
I signed up to a local jewellery making evening class back in 2008. The first project was making a silver ring, with a lot of piercing (not my favourite thing) and I was hooked after the first term!
How would you describe your signature style?
My signature style as a jeweller is very eclectic, sculptural and driven by my love of strong shapes and traditional processes.
How long did it take you to define your style?
For ages I didn’t think I had a signature style: I love the making process and as a result a lot of my work is influenced by the particular technique I’m using at any one time.
When did you realise you had a signature style?
Following a discussion with another jeweller friend, where I was sharing my frustrations with not having a specific style (I don’t often produce ‘collections’ of work), she pointed out that my style was easily recognisable. We talked about the common features in my pieces and how I could develop those. That’s one of the great things about the jewellery community: on the whole it’s very generous and supportive.
How did you discover your signature style?
The above conversation with my jeweller friend helped to give me the confidence to embrace my way of working. I’m a process-driven maker and I’m now more comfortable with that.
How does having a strong style help you connect with your customers?
As makers I think we all have our ’tribe’ - those people that connect with what we do and appreciate how it can be worn. I think it’s important not to acknowledge that you can’t please everyone and not everyone will like/understand what you do. Ultimately, I make things that are pleasing to my own eye and I’ve learned that there are people out there that get my vision and want to wear it!
Is it something you feel is still evolving?
Definitely! I’m getting braver in terms of making some of the more wild ideas that I have in my head. Feedback from returning customers has also been a great way of developing my ideas and evolving as a maker.
Want to know more?
If you’d like to learn more about how to develop a strong signature style for your jewellery business and read Angela’s top tip for new jewellers, then you’ll find it all here in the new book - ‘Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business’ with Jessica Rose.
Want to develop your signature style?
If you’re just starting out in your jewellery making journey and would like to develop your signature style then why not consider signing up to our Diploma in Silver Jewellery? It’s a great way to not only learn basic silversmithing skills but to play around with different techniques and designs that will in turn help you figure out where your passion lies and what your signature style might be. Click below to find out more.
