Why aluminium for jewellery? In 1825 pure aluminium was successfully extracted from ore for the first time by Danish chemist Hans-Christian. But it wasn’t until 1889 – while the Eiffel Tower was unveiled in Paris, Vincent Van Gogh painted Starry Night in...
One of my signature styles, the Lariat necklace, is revitalised with contemporary design cues and materials while retaining its timless ability to transform the drab into the striking. The lariat evolved from one of the oldest necklace designs: the rope necklace, a...
From the first shiver of inspiration to the last polish of a beautiful handmade necklace: there is a lot that goes into the making of any piece of handmade designer jewellery. That’s why I wanted to explain in a little more detail exactly what happens in the design,...
Contemporary jewellery design is the practice of making jewellery which is strongly rooted in the present; creating pieces which reflect our current cultures, attitudes to life and ways of working. What is considered contemporary will vary from person to person; alot...
Earlier this year I had the pleasure of working with Paulin on their new watch design Neo. Their goal was to build a completely handmade watch; combining contemporary materials and technology with the age old tradition of handmade jewellery making. I hand dyed each...
Helen Swan Jewellery Oh did I mention my nomination… Really pleased to be nominated then selected as one of three finalist from a hundred entrants throughout Scotland. SCOTTISH WOMEN IN BUSINESS Scottish Woman in Business, known affectionately by all as SWIB,...
INNOVATOR AWARD FINALIST Helen Swan Jewellery As a jeweller I get great pleasure in making my clients happy but it’s not often that I get formal recognition for my achievements, that is not what motivates me, but every now and again it’s really nice for...
January- Birthstone Garnet By her who in this month is born No gem save garnets should be worn; They will ensure her constancy, True friendship and fidelity. Unknown Tiffany&Co. Pamphlet 1870. 3 Important and Interesting Facts about January’s Birthstone the...
SENTIMENTAL JEWELLERY Hi Helen I wanted to let u know I’m delighted with the earrings you designed for me, really lovely & very nice to wear. I hope your show went well Regards, Renee Bring your Past into the Present; The Circle of Life Do you have jewellery...
A MERRY XMAS from Helen Swan Designer Jewellery The Xmas season is here again and Helen wishes you a joyous time and a healthy and prosperous 2016 Pause and take a thought for Jewellers at this time of year it is a very busy time THE PLANNING. For me, the planning of...
Three Interesting Facts About November’s Birthstone The Topaz Who first comes to this world below, In dreary November‘s fog and snow, Should prize the Topaz amber hue, Emblem of friends and lovers true. Unknown. NOVEMBER’S BIRTHSTONE In this month’s...
3 IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT OCTOBERS BIRTHSTONE THE OPAL October- Opal October’s child is born for woe, And life’s vicissitudes must know, But lay an opal on her breast, And hope will lull those woes to rest. Unknown. THE OPAL BIRTHSTONE Opal is a precious...
