Inspired by the Dartmoor granite rocks abundant with large quartz crystals, megacrysts. The Dartmoor Megacryst Studs are handcrafted in recycled fine silver with recycled sterling silver ear pins and scrolls, each megacryst is unique. Simple and elegant with a textured finish, they can be worn everyday for any occasion.

About

After setting up the Green Maker Initiative with MAKE Southwest, to help designer makers reduce their environmental impact, and two decades of teaching and researching art and design in universities, I knew I had to return to using my hands and heart to create beautiful, sustainable and empowering objects. I had trained as an artist and was familiar with working with all kinds of materials, usually on a large scale, so to enter the miniature world of gems and precious metals I undertook further training with the Jeweller’s Academy.

Sustainable making processes

In the making process, I use citric acid (lemon) and water, rather than using harsh acids, to remove the carbon after heating and soldering the precious metals. I use lead-free enamels with the wet packing method. Waste is minimised by collecting the lemel, (metal dust) for reprocessing, as is sandpaper. I use a water-based natural polishing compound and wash and reuse polishing cloths.

Opening your jewellery will be a pleasure! Each piece is beautifully packaged and gift wrapped, developed after much investigation into the environmentally sustainable ways to bring your jewellery to you.

Find out more about the sustainable packaging

Design Inspiration

The jewellery is inspired by the beauty and wild places of Dartmoor, the changing colours and textures as the light changes over the granite and grasslands through the seasons. 

I am drawn to the beauty of ethically sourced stones, the stories of the lands where they originate and their many amazing properties, such as Sri Lankan sapphires, the rubies of Tanzinia, and the quartz from here on Dartmoor. Each piece of jewellery is made with the intention to uplift and bring joy to the wearer.

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Expanded Skies Hinged Charm Bangle is made from high quality recycled sterling silver inlaid with recycled 9ct gold with a textured hammered finish that reflects the light. Understated and beautiful, it can be worn every day or for special occasions. The hinged bangle includes two charms set with beautiful ethically sourced Sri Lankan yellow sapphires, a star and a Vesica Piscis - two overlapping circles, used by many cultures, its meanings include harmony, balance and creation. Other charms can be added.

Bespoke commissions welcomed

Is there a piece you've always wanted to be made for yourself or for a special gift? 

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