what is a hallmark & why does it matter?
In the UK, hallmarking is a legal requirement for precious metals over a certain weight. It’s there to protect you as a customer and make sure you’re getting exactly what you’ve paid for.
why have gold and silver prices increased so much?
Whenever the world feels unstable — politically, economically, or socially — people tend to turn to gold. Gold has been used as a store of value for thousands of years. When currencies wobble or inflation rises, investors buy gold to protect their money.
why handmade jewellery costs what it does
Handmade jewellery often costs more than mass-produced jewellery — and that can feel confusing if you’re not familiar with how it’s made. This isn’t because handmade is “luxury” in the glossy sense, or because there’s a markup for a name. It’s because of time, skill, materials, and care — and the fact that everything is done by a human, not a machine.
How long does it take to make a custom ring?
One of the most common questions people ask is: “How long will it take to make my ring?”
Because all Rare Thing jewellery is made by hand at the bench, rather than cast or mass-produced, the process takes time. Most custom rings take around six weeks from start to finish so here’s why.
what happens to your wax ring after carving?
At the end of a wax carving workshop, you are left with a wax ring — but that’s not the finished piece yet. Your wax design is the starting point for a traditional casting process that turns it into a solid silver or gold ring. This happens off-site with specialist casters, and then the finished piece comes back to us to be cleaned, polished, and checked before it’s ready to wear.
wax carving jewellery workshops - make your own ring
What is a wax carving jewellery workshop? A wax carving workshop is a hands-on jewellery making experience where you carve your own ring from jeweller’s wax, which is then professionally cast into silver or gold.
how to choose the perfect Christmas gift
Choosing a Christmas gift shouldn’t feel like a battle with your own sanity yet every December, people panic-buy bath sets and novelty socks like it’s tradition. Here’s how to pick a gift that feels thoughtful, personal, and genuinely appreciated.
How Old is Gold?
Gold has fascinated humans since the dawn of civilisation but its true story starts far earlier than any human culture. Before the Earth even formed, gold was already drifting through space, born from the explosions of dying stars. Here’s how this celestial metal became one of the most treasured materials on Earth.
joining the NAJ
When you’re choosing a jeweller, trust is everything. Jewellery isn’t just another purchase – it’s sentimental, valuable, and often tied to some of the most important moments of your life. That’s why being a member of the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) matters.
Here’s what NAJ membership means for you as a customer:
choosing your wedding bands
Your wedding bands are the one piece of jewellery you’ll wear every day, so choosing the right pair matter so here are the key things to keep in mind.
1. Metal Choice
Gold is a timeless option—available in yellow, white, and rose tones. Platinum is durable and naturally white, while silver is a softer, affordable choice. Think about which metal suits your skin tone and matches the jewellery you already wear.
designing an engagement ring
Designing an engagement ring isn’t just about choosing something pretty and shiny—it’s about creating a piece that actually means something. It’s the one ring that’s going to be worn every day, through everything, so it needs to be right. Here’s how to approach the process without losing your mind, your money, or your partner’s trust.
let’s talk money
When it comes to commissioning a piece of jewellery—especially something bespoke, handmade, and crafted with love and skill—one of the most important things we need to talk about is budget.
Lab-grown or natural?
Okay, lets talk about diamonds - pretty much everyone’s favorite rocks. These days, you have probably heard about lab-grown diamonds as a cheaper, more eco-friendly alternative to real diamonds. But are they really all that?
shopping small
In a world where we can buy almost anything with a few clicks, it’s easy to forget the value of shopping locally and supporting independent businesses. The convenience of online giants and chain stores can be tempting, but when you choose to shop small, you're making a big difference.
what’s the story of recycled gold and silver?
When we talk about "recycled" gold or silver, we’re referring to metal that’s been reclaimed from existing sources. It could be old jewellery, industrial products, or even tech gadgets. Rather than letting these items gather dust or end up in landfills, they’re melted down and re-refined to be used again.
permanent jewellery
First things first, let’s clear up what permanent jewellery actually is. We’re talking about pieces—usually bracelets, anklets, or necklaces—that are welded or clasped onto you, meaning there’s no traditional clasp to take them on and off.
sapphires..
When we think of precious gemstones that have captivated humanity for centuries, sapphires undoubtedly shine as one of the most revered. Known for their mesmerising hues and fascinating lore, sapphires have adorned royalty, inspired legends, and continue to dazzle in modern jewellery
emeralds..
Emeralds have captivated humanity for centuries with their mesmerising green hues and mystical allure. These gemstones, part of the beryl family, are treasured not only for their beauty but also for their rarity and historical significance.
gold v silver..
When it comes to jewellery, the debate between gold and silver is timeless. Both metals have their own unique charm and appeal, but which one looks better? Let's dive into the pros and cons of each to help you decide which one suits your style best.