Jewellery Design BA (Hons)

Jewellery Design at Hereford College of Arts is for creative makers who want to <strong>explore contemporary jewellery through material experimentation, craftsmanship and personal expression</strong>. You will investigate how jewellery functions as adornment, narrative object and creative statement <strong>developing strong technical skills</strong> alongside an exploratory, design-led approach.<br/><br/>Across three years, you will explore metalworking, fabrication, casting, forming, surface treatments and mixed-material experimentation. You will learn how ideas move from sketchbook research to prototype to finished pieces, supported by tutors who are practicing jewellers and designer makers. The course encourages curiosity, critical thinking and a willingness to push beyond traditional approaches into sculptural, conceptual or interdisciplinary work.<br/><strong>A supportive studio environment</strong> allows you to test ideas, develop your artistic voice and build confidence as you grow into an independent contemporary jeweller.<br/><br/>You will:<br/><br/>● Develop strong technical skills in metalworking, forming, fabrication and finishing<br/>● Experiment with plastics, wood, textiles and found materials<br/>● Learn how to design, prototype and refine wearable pieces<br/>● Build confidence responding to briefs and communicating design ideas<br/>● Produce a portfolio and collection that reflect your personal design identity<br/><br/><strong>FACILITIES</strong><br/>You will work in specialist studios equipped with individual jewellery benches for soldering, forming, polishing and fabrication. Alongside these is industry standard enameling, etching, PUK welding and lathe machining equipment. You will also access wood, metal and digital fabrication workshops to support experimental or interdisciplinary approaches. CAD software, 3D modelling and prototyping tools expand the possibilities for contemporary jewellery design.<br/><br/><strong>INDUSTRY LINKS</strong><br/>You will learn from practicing jewellers, metalsmiths and designer-makers through talks, workshops, studio visits and live projects. Students often collaborate with craft galleries, design studios, independent makers and cultural partners, gaining insight into the wider craft industry. Demonstrations and critiques with visiting jewellers and applied artists provide continuous insight into contemporary practice and help you refine your techniques, develop your portfolio and build confidence as a professional maker. Guest speakers have included Lin Cheng, Juliette Bigley and Emily Kidson. <br/><br/><strong>CAREERS</strong><br/>Graduates progress into roles such as jeweller, designer–maker, metalsmith, production designer, workshop technician, CAD designer, gallery assistant or freelance craft practitioner. You will build a portfolio and collection that demonstrate your technical fluency and creative direction. You will be supported to understand what success looks like for you and build your own plan with this in mind. Alumni have exhibited and won international prizes and the courses professional links include a graduate support scheme with Alloy. <br/><br/><strong>SUSTAINABILITY & ETHICAL PRACTICE</strong><br/>You will explore responsible approaches to contemporary jewellery, from ethical sourcing and low-impact processes to reuse, upcycling and circular design. Projects may encourage experimentation with sustainable materials or concept-led approaches that highlight environmental or social themes. Live briefs include working with the likes of Precious Collective and Fairlux. <br/><br/><strong>EXTERNAL OPPORTUNITIES</strong><br/>Students are supported to take part in craft fairs, online showcases, international networks and collaborative projects that expand professional visibility and offer insight into global jewellery practice. Modules include entries to Goldsmiths Craft & Design Award and British Arts Medal Society Student Award – both of which have seen students win awards and recognition. Trips to COLLECT, London and Birmingham Jewellery Quarter also enhance learning.<br/><br/>For information about modules: www.hca.ac.uk/courses/bahons-jewellery-design