Preview: Goldsmiths Fair 2009

By suke Last edited 174 months ago
Preview: Goldsmiths Fair 2009

RauniHigson_AvocadoBowl.jpg Like a 21st century Aladdin's cave, Goldsmiths' Fair, set within the luxuriantly gilded interiors of Goldsmiths' Hall, offers a dazzling array of some of the finest contemporary jewellery and silverware craftsmanship. Accommodating every personal taste, style and budget, the choice of treasures on offer is overwhelming; from cutting-edge and flamboyant to classic and restrained. Fans of exotic and unusual gem stones, in a dazzling palette of different colours, imaginatively incorporated into stylish jewels will be in spangly heaven.

The Fair, now in its 27th year, is the largest and most inspirational selling event of its kind in Europe where 160 highly original designer-makers, from all over the country, present their latest, exquisitely crafted creations. Under four enormous glass chandeliers, established jewellers and silversmiths exhibit alongside young breakthrough talent - all eager for recognition. The Goldsmiths' Company also offers ten recent graduates free stands to help launch their careers - what a place to start!

From traditional techniques to modern technology, the designer-makers are happy to chat and tell you how they turn raw materials into stunning works of art. Whether it's an occasion to mark, a gift to give, an investment to make or an opportunity to buy yourself something really special, it would be difficult to find a more stylish and imaginative portfolio from which to choose under one roof. A lovingly, handcrafted one-off is not only a treasure to behold, but an antique of the future and a talking point for years to come.

And of course, this is also a great excuse to explore the Hall itself in all its opulent glory.

Goldsmiths' Fair is on for 2 weeks with a change of exhibitors midway. Tickets can be bought for one week or two (£7/£12 respectively, catalogue included) and there is a café to keep you going. All at Goldsmiths' Hall, Foster Lane, London EC2V 6BN. Open Mon-Fri, 11am-7pm, weekends 10am-6pm (closed Mon 5 Oct).

Image of Avocado Bowl by Rauni Higson

Last Updated 18 September 2009