About
Based in Southampton, Hampshire, I create handcrafted sterling silver and 24k gold jewellery inspired by the shapes, textures and small details of the British countryside.
Nature has always been at the heart of my work. Leaves, flowers and familiar woodland creatures such as foxes and hares are translated into jewellery that is tactile, contemporary and designed to be worn and enjoyed every day. I am particularly drawn to the details we can easily overlook - the pattern of a leaf, the curve of a flower or the character of a familiar woodland animal.
Texture is an important part of my work and the patterns on my work begin as my own hand drawings. These are developed into repeat designs and laser engraved into card before being transferred into sterling silver using a rolling mill. I then hand saw, form, solder and finish each piece in my Hampshire studio.
Alongside silver, I use the traditional Korean technique of Keum Boo to bond 24k gold foil to sterling silver. The contrast between the cool silver and the warmth of pure gold allows me to introduce rich golden details while retaining the textures that characterise my work.
I enjoy the slow, thoughtful nature of making by hand, particularly the meditative process of hand sawing, which cannot be rushed. This sense of slowing down and noticing the details connects my making process with the countryside that inspires it.
My aim is to create distinctive, beautifully made and comfortable to wear jewellery that brings a small connection to nature into everyday life - pieces to wear, enjoy and keep for many years.
To see details of Joanne's jewellery workshops and private tuition please visit the Teaching page.
About Hallmarking
Hallmarking is a legal requirement for all items containing 7.78g or more of silver or 1g or more of gold, although items below these weights may be hallmarked as well. Joanne's maker's mark is registered at the London Assay Office at Goldsmiths' Hall in London, the first recorded place in the world to carry out assaying (testing) and hallmarking of precious metals over 700 years ago. All of her hallmarked silver pieces carry the marks shown below.
(L to R: maker's mark, modern sterling silver mark, traditional sterling silver mark, leopard's head for London, date letter - this last mark changes each year)
