The Process

Most designs begin with a stone. Collections curated around striking high quality natural stones, expertly cut and selected from lapidary artists and small independent retailers who offer transparency at the forefront of their values. There’s a real issue with the retail of cheap unethically mined and imitation stones masquerading as the real deal. I pride myself on sourcing quality materials from reliable vendors, the calibre of which truly is reflected in the finished article. RWW wouldn’t be here without the wonderful work of these independent miners, lapidary artists and retailers.

 

With stone in hand the design process begins. I find my inspiration from all kinds of avenues. Living on the Welsh border there’s so much beauty to draw from. Scenic landscapes of the Shropshire and Welsh hills, vast open meadows, thick woodlands, mountain ranges and coastlines. I strive to encapsulate either visual elements or impressions that I experience when composing and crafting these designs. There’s absolutely a right frame of mind to be in to encourage the creative flow and I endeavour to create from this mindset throughout the process.

 

I largely work with recycled sterling silver, incorporating mixed metal accents into some designs. All bullion is procured locally from a well established retailer who now predominantly manufactures and sells recycled metals. I also refine any additional material left over from the process and reclaim and repurpose existing previously loved articles when available. The creation process is slow and mindful. It’s so easy to rush in a society driven by productivity, but one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced working in this medium is to slow right down - the more consciously I craft the more I resonate with the finished piece and I truly hope you do too.

 

The metal undergoes many processes from sheet metal and rolled wire. It’s sawn, hammered, textured, formed, soldered, sanded, oxidised, polished and set where applicable with the stone. The transition from sketch to physical item, concept to reality, is hugely rewarding. Once a piece is finished the UK and EU regulations require the application of a series of stamped or lasered marks called hallmarking where, in the case of sterling silver, the article meets or exceeds the 7.78g threshold. Once the marks are applied the piece is ready to be sent to its forever home.

 

I package all works in minimal, simple packaging. Recyclable cotton bags and kraft paper boxes, ideal for storing and protecting your new jewellery, with card outer packaging and paper padding for transit.

 

Thank you for taking an interest in how we craft our wares. With fast fashion posing a real concern it’s more important now than ever that we as producers and consumers revert back to more traditional processes and direct increased value in handcrafted, meaningful goods that become part of our forever collections.

 

Sustainably sourced. Crafted with love. Made to last.