Both men and women admire jewellery not only for its beauty, but also for what it represents. Firstly, a Van Cleef and Arpels half carat diamond ring may be a symbol of betrothal, promise and undying love. For others, an opal necklace surrounded by emeralds with matching earrings is there to accessorise an already beautiful woman. A Vacheron Constantin watch may represent a family heirloom to be passed down through the generations. At Goldsmiths’ Fair, jewellery is art, it is beauty, and it is a marvel to behold. The glitter, shine, and craftsmanship is there for all to see in this fair that puts the wonder of the artist on display. 

Goldsmiths’ Fair is an annual event celebrating, displaying, and selling the finest jewellery made by over 120 UK-based craftsmen. From dazzling diamonds to radiant rubies, you will see types of brilliant gems and materials in staggering amount of exhibitions and showrooms.   Along with jewellery, this two week fair showcases the finest silversmiths in the country.  

Goldsmiths’ Fair first started in 1982 and has run annually ever since at the gorgeous Goldsmiths’ Hall in London. The venue is grand and majestic, matching the quality of the jewellery on display. It’s a fitting place for the world’s elite to gaze upon the meticulous craft of UK’s finest jewellers and silversmiths. Alongside the exhibitions of the jewellery there are also many in-depth talks from industry experts about topics within the jewellery trade, such as “Curating Modern and Contemporary Rings” and “Sapphire: A Celebration of Colour”, to name but two. Handily, some of these talks are also available digitally. However, when there is such a beautiful venue ready to receive you, where’s the fun in that?

The exhibitions themselves are the key and the highlight. As such, being among other jewellery enthusiasts and hearing collective gasps around the room as the glint of a gorgeous emerald reaches their eyes is an experience like no other. Seeing a piece by the meticulous Alex Goodman and marvelling at the simplicity and elegance of how he balances smooth textures with brilliant gems would on any other day be considered a wondrous and unique moment of amazing luck. Not today. Today, Goodman is accompanied by scores of other magicians and masters, proud to present their very best pieces.

Another of these artists is the incomparable Francesca Marcenaro. She is a modern and experimental jeweller who specialises in creating unusual pieces by mixing different techniques to create stunning effects. Her famous “glass granulation” technique is a sight to behold, and many of her pieces have this shimmering, glittering beauty to them which is an absolute must see for any attendee. These wonderful pieces are not just pretty to look at though. Marcenaro’s philosophy is to make jewellery that is both wearable and comfortable while still dazzling the crowd.

There are plenty of different exhibitions, talks, and events over the course of the two weeks to keep you engaged and enthralled. The opportunity to meet the UK-based craftsmen themselves is exciting, having the chance to peer into the mind of these perfectionists and masters of their art. So is the opportunity to ask for an exhibitor to commission a piece especially for you. All exhibitors welcome commissions, and this is a wonderful opportunity to be able to buy a special and unique piece that would fit perfectly in your home (or of course, on your wrist). Whether it’s a tasteful set of plates, luxurious glasses, or elegant earrings, all 130+ of the exhibitors are ready to work with you on a design that fits you perfectly.

Perhaps you’re not fussed about having a specific design though. If so, browsing through the hundreds of pieces will be the most satisfying shopping experience one could ever have. Necklaces, rings, earrings, chalices, plates, cutlery. The list of beautiful local treasures you can pick up that you can’t find anywhere else is endless. For the collectors and investors out there, there are pieces from a multitude of up and coming craftsmen that are sure to become a part of the elite in the industry. Access to so many at one time is rare and very special indeed. It’s an absolute must for collectors of all levels.

Goldsmiths’ Fair is the standout exhibition of its kind in the UK. For decades the who’s who of high society frequent the Fair for the chance to see so many renowned masters of their craft in one place. It is an opportunity you cannot miss, and one you would certainly not want to.