Reflecting on 2024 feels like revisiting the pages of a novel overflowing with beautiful gems, inspiring stories, and poignant farewells. From the bustling streets of Hatton Garden in London, to the vibrant landscapes of Tanzania and the diamond-rich soils of Sierra Leone, every chapter of this year has been etched with unforgettable experiences, coloured with both joy and challenge.
January: A Promising Start in the Jewellery Industry
January unfolded with an exciting collaboration with Sunvil Holidays for my 2025 gemstone tours. A local enthusiast shared her life’s jewellery collection with me over coffee, each piece with history and allure. Joining the networking group Gem X opened doors to like-minded enthusiasts, further feeding my passion for all things gem-related.
Gem X is a vibrant and dynamic community that connects jewellery enthusiasts, professionals, and collectors around the world. Focused on fostering a shared passion for gems and jewellery, Gem X offers its members unique opportunities to engage with the intricate world of gemmology and jewellery-making.
Photography also took centre stage as I entered the prestigious Sony Photography Awards, showcasing the Hadzabe tribe in Tanzania from my 2023 trip. Alas, my haste led to a small oversight—a missing image description—but lessons learned often shine brighter than victories.
February: Connections and Celebrations in the World of Gems
February swept me off my feet, starting with a fascinating discussion with David Doyle, curated by Rachael Taylor at the Goldsmiths' Centre. David is an esteemed figure in the gem trade, known for his significant contributions to the industry as the Past President of The National Association of Jewellers. Throughout his career, he has been recognised for his leadership and dedication to excellence in jewellery, managing and serving as a non-executive director within the trade.
Despite facing a personal battle with terminal cancer, David Doyle has channelled his efforts into a noble cause—raising funds for children with cancer. Demonstrating resilience and empathy, he organizes charity events to support the Birmingham Children’s Hospital. It was an enriching dialogue among jewellers' elites.
The "A Love Letter To…" exhibition displayed the next generation's creative prowess in crafting jewellery. The "A Love Letter To…" exhibition was a captivating showcase of artistic innovation and creativity, highlighting the talents of students from leading jewellery design schools. This exhibition serves as both an educational platform and a celebration of the craft, where students are invited to conceptualise and create pieces that encapsulate personal interpretations of the theme, "A Love Letter To…" By participating in "A Love Letter To…," students gain invaluable exposure to industry professionals, potential mentors, and a broader audience, fostering an environment of inspiration, critique, and support. The exhibition not only celebrates the students' achievements but also reinforces the importance of nurturing creativity and passion within the jewellery design community.
A personal highlight was my trip to Bath, where I shared my thoughts on gemstones' wellness benefits Bath’s wellness event. Back in London, the Garden Club drinks wrapped up February on a convivial note, solidifying a tapestry of connections.
March: Unearthing Hidden Gemstone Treasures
March was the month of discovery, with a metal detecting venture in Merton revealing my first gold coin after three persistent years. In the spirited company of fellow GIA alumni members at the London Diamond Bourse, I deepened my bond with the gem trade.
April to June: A Tapestry of Talks and Gem Tours
I savoured the Scottish landscape during the annual SGA conference in Glasgow, and enjoyed an impromptu fish and chips with my friend and colleague Sara Brown. Sara Brown is an inspiring figure in the jewellery world, known for her innovative designs and deep connection to her Scottish heritage. Based in Glasgow, she is a jeweller who expertly intertwines traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics, creating unique pieces that resonate with both local and international audiences.
One of Sara's defining traits is her fluency in Gaelic, which not only connects her to the rich cultural tapestry of Scotland but also influences her artistic expression. This linguistic and cultural backdrop enriches her storytelling through jewellery, where each piece often reflects elements of Scottish landscapes, mythology, and history.
Beyond her craftsmanship, Sara is an inspiring woman due to her collaborative spirit and willingness to share knowledge with others in the field. Her ability to weave her cultural heritage into her designs serves as a beacon for aspiring jewellers, showcasing the power of embracing one's roots while innovatively expanding the horizons of traditional crafts. Her contributions not only enrich the jewellery industry in Glasgow but also cultivate a sense of community and cultural pride among her peers.
Agate hunting with esteemed gemmologist Alistair Tait added another jewel to my adventures. These months weren't devoid of challenges, though, as the unexpected personal loss of my Uncle honed life's fragility even further.
July to September: Gemstone Tours and Transformations
Returning to Tanzania for a second gemstone tour with Hubert Heldner was a blend of nostalgia and discovery. However, September's Quantum Leap event in Munich, despite its promise, reminded me that every venture carries lessons, and not every investment yields tangible returns.
October to December: A Year’s Reflective Journey
November's visit to Kono, Sierra Leone, set the stage for a future gemstone tour that will spark excitement for 2025. Joining Adam's Gold Circle spurred new dimensions in both my business and personal growth.
On my way to join the SGA for their annual Christmas dinner, I had the delightful opportunity to stop in Pudsey as a guest on Michelle Hands' podcast, "She Who Dares Wins." It was a warm and engaging conversation between two women who have seamlessly transformed their passions into thriving professions. We delved into the intricacies of our journeys, sharing insights and inspirations. I'm truly excited to share this enlightening episode with you once it's published.
The year concluded with an emotional farewell to my beloved cat, Elly—a decision steeped in heartache, yet strengthening in resilience. Despite life's inevitable waves of joy and sorrow, 2024 has been a testament to growth, connections, and the pursuit of passion.
As I step into 2025 with my heart full and sights set on new horizons, I'm reminded that every challenge crafts a stronger spirit, and every adventure is a story waiting to be told. Here's to continuing the journey with an open heart and unwavering curiosity.
Stay curious, explore deeply.
Gemstone Detective
Comments