A workshop introducing the concept of ethical jewellery; an opportunity to learn about the context and to learn how to make something new.

With the world the way that it is today, it’s no longer okay to just continue on our way and ignore the effect that current consumption (of everything) has on the world and the folks who live within it. Where the most capacity for big change is held by the big corporations, an individual - the entire population of individuals - has so much power just in where they spend their money. We have so many finite resources used at renewable rates, a huge waste problem, and so many people who are not responsible for the problem are left having to deal with the repercussions.

If you want to make a change, the trouble is often not knowing where to start.

So here we are, a start! Here is your introduction to Ethical Jewellery.

Jewellery is often considered one of the world’s oldest art forms; it’s had a long time to develop processes, understanding, materials but also, unfortunately, do a fair bit of damage. We’re lucky that there are some positive areas of the industry that have been running for a long time, but there are also some negative elements that have a considerable impact on the world. It’s important that we share the information, make some individual decisions and push for change!

The session will begin with an overview of what’s going on in the world in the context of jewellery (making and purchasing). You'll learn about the various origins of metal, gemstones and jewellery, and gain an assortment of knowledge on harmful jewellery practises and things to avoid. You’ll find out more about good jewellery initiatives and the people who are saving the (jewellery) world one little bit at a time!

Part two of the session will feature a little insight into the industry: how to identify what your jewellery is made from! This section requires that you bring your jewellery with you - whether it's something old and broken that you don't wear any more, or something that you're just curious about. Bring it along and learn what it's made from!

For the final part of the workshop, it is very important to separate what you want to keep from what you don't want any more, as the last section will see us melting some of your jewellery down and turning it into something new! Due to the nature of the workshop (its suitability for beginners and the introduction beforehand), there won’t be time to make anything complex, or forge out a ring. We shall be keeping the processes relatively simple - a bit of melting, a bit of shaping, a bit of soldering and the option to turn your little piece of metal into a pendant, earrings, or an embellishment for a simple silver ring.

If there is time, we can talk about what else you wish to do with it/with the remainder of metal. You could commission me to make something with the rest, or you could book in a workshop to make yourself something more complex!

***You will need to bring old jewellery with you. If you don't have any jewellery to melt, you're welcome to purchase some scrap from Emily to melt down, but you will need to let her know in advance.***

This workshop runs from 10am to 4pm. The workshop will take place at The Colour Factory in Winchester.

This workshop costs £100 per person; it includes all of the tools needed, and any silver or small gold findings** that may be required. Silver chains, silver rings and large gold components will be subject to an additional cost, if needed. These costs start at £10; please get in touch if you’d like to know more prior to the workshop.

To book, head to Emily's website: www.the-metalsmith.co.uk/workshop-bookings/introduction-to-ethical-jewellery
 
*This is all quite general information; there are certain situations where using plastic is necessary, and accessibility and affordability can impact peoples’ ability to make choices but for the great majority of people, this is not a reason.

**Findings are jewellery making components; this includes items like the loop that a pendant hangs from (running ring or bail), ear wires, butterfly backs, etc.