Grief changes us. It arrives quietly for some, suddenly for others, but when we lose someone we love, life never quite returns to the way it was before. The world continues moving, while a part of us stands still, holding memories, conversations, gestures and moments that suddenly become precious beyond words. Throughout history, people search … Read more
As the year draws to a close, I find myself pausing for a moment to take in everything that 2025 has brought. The turbulence, the surprises, the opportunities, the challenges, and the many moments of gratitude. The world of precious metals is unpredictable. With gold prices rising steadily and uncertainty shaping the broader landscape. Yet, … Read more
main image: Fairmined website My Reflections on Rising Prices, Ethics, and the Future of Jewellery Have you ever stopped to consider what truly happens when you invest in gold? I ask myself this question often—more than most, perhaps—because gold is not only my material of work but also a living thread that connects miners, artisans, … Read more
Lost wax casting is one of the oldest jewellery-making techniques known to humanity. It dates back around 6,400 years, and remarkably, the fundamentals of the process have hardly changed. Ancient goldsmiths worked with beeswax and clay, while today we benefit from modern tools and rubber moulds. Yet, the soul of the technique remains the same: … Read more
As summer shifts from July to August, one gemstone shines with the season’s vitality: Peridot. With its radiant green hue, Peridot is the perfect gift to celebrate August birthdays and the vibrant energy of high summer. This unique birthstone boasts a rich history, deep spiritual symbolism, and a personal significance that has stayed with me … Read more
A New Perspective on Engagement Rings Traditionally, engagement rings feature solitaire diamonds. The first recorded diamond engagement ring was commissioned in 1477 by Archduke Maximilian of Austria for Mary of Burgundy. This marked the beginning of a fashionable trend among the elite. In 1886, Tiffany & Co. introduced the solitaire diamond engagement ring as we … Read more
Valentine’s Day celebrates love, affection, and meaningful gestures. Every year, people exchange gifts as symbols of devotion. Jewellery remains one of the most treasured choices. But today, sustainability and ethical responsibility matter more than ever. The way we express love through gifts is evolving. Fairmined gold, ethical gemstones, and handmade craftsmanship create a truly meaningful … Read more
image caption: grandparents wedding rings melted down and turned into the couple’s wedding rings. Celebrating their union and commemoration their grandparents. Commemoration jewellery creates a deeply personal and meaningful way to honour and cherish the memories of loved ones. These pieces let you carry their essence with you and celebrate the unique stories they leave … Read more
Gemstone Inclusions: Nature’s Unique Touch Gemstone inclusions are natural imperfections that make each gemstone one-of-a-kind. Often called “nature’s fingerprints,” they tell the story of a gemstone’s journey from formation to discovery. Rather than detracting from the stone’s beauty, inclusions enhance its character and make it truly unique. What Are Gemstone Inclusions? Inclusions in gemstones are … Read more
A 25 Year Journey of Passion and Crafstmanship This year, I am proudly celebrating 25 years of craftsmanship in jewellery. It’s a milestone that gives me the chance to reflect on my journey. The challenges, and the countless moments of joy that shape my career. I begin my journey in London, at the iconic Oxo … Read more
What do Diamonds For Peace do? Diamonds For Peace was set up in 2014, founded by Chie Murakami, in Japan. There aim is to improve the working conditions and social status of the workers in the diamond supply chain and to promote ethics and fairness in the diamond industry. They provide support to improve the … Read more
Why I Choose Fairmined Gold for My Jewellery As a Fairmined licensee, I believe it’s important to know exactly where the gold for my jewellery comes from. That’s why traveling to Peru and visiting the Fairmined gold mines myself is important. Seeing the mining process firsthand gives me a deeper appreciation for the people … Read more
The Royal Bleu Did you know that most of the French Crown jewels or ‘Diamants de la Couronne de France’ have been destroyed over the Centuries and only 1 of the 20 documented royal crowns survived. King Louis XVI is depicted here, with the Royal French Blue. Originally set in gold and suspended on a … Read more
Diamond for Life: A Story of Grief, Memory, and Jewellery that Lasts Forever Introduction Some of you may have already read my previous blog post, Little Pleasure, the beginning of my series Stories Behind the Jewel. If so, I hope it gave you a small glimpse into the intimate and emotional world that often lies … Read more
Personal choices First of all, choosing jewellery is an extremely personal affair. The choices we make, are influenced by our taste, mood, purpose and occasion. For what ever reason, buying jewellery is very specific to each individual… Buying a piece of jewellery from an artisan jeweller like myself, opens other doors. Therefore, you can realize your dream jewel. Customers … Read more
My inspiration I love the simplicity of a line or the curve it makes. There is an elegance in the way a line flows, look at a river or a hilly landscape. I believe the design for a jewel should flow easily. The curves and forms are the strength of a jewel’s characteristics. The elegance in its … Read more
Exciting news Exciting news. Over the summer, I received the label of certified craftsmanship. So, this is what happened… During the month of June 2016, I put together a portfolio of my work and career. It was this portfolio which was sent to the “Ambacht Commissie” (Board for craftsmen). So, after presenting my portfolio and defending … Read more
Design September month First of all, what is Design September? Design September is an organisation with a strong reputation. It engages a multitude of venues to participate within its various concepts. A yearly event, during the month of September. Another exciting time of year in our capital. This event consequently makes Brussels buzz. Most of all, … Read more
Meesterlijk Event The month of November is upon us, hence it’s an exciting time at Saskia Shutt Designs. An open-door workshop event with Journée de Artisan, on Sunday 22/11. Also an expo with Meesterlijk, the last weekend of November, held in Amsterdam, which sees the launch of Saskia’s new collection of jewellery. Unveiling of new work … Read more
Design September 2015 Celebrates Its 10th Anniversary As summer ends, autumn begins to make its way in. September is a buzzing month filled with creativity. This year, Design September celebrates its 10th anniversary. It promises to be the most exciting one yet. A Month of Design and Creativity Design September 2015 brings a fresh lineup … Read more
