Client Spotlight - Fiona Lewis
Sustainable & responsible jewellery
March newsletter 2020
Could you give us a little introduction to yourself?
“I am a self-employed designer/maker of Fiona Lewis Jewellery. I live in Chipping Sodbury, a pretty Cotswold market town that has independent shops, cafes, pubs and bars. It is well worth a visit for an afternoon out. I love the countryside in all winds and weathers, the peace and space provide my inspiration… my mind is constantly forming shapes and movement into designs, and probably a source for a lifetime of jewellery and some more!
When I am not working, I am walking, travelling abroad, sewing, gardening, socialising, and spending time with my fabulous partner David, who encourages me in everything I do. My son and daughter are both creative so family conversation is often about our next projects. I keep chickens, and Prudence the cat who has decided the feral lifestyle is not for her, she prefers my sofa and a warm lap. ”
Tell me about how you came to be a jeweller?
“I attended a senior school where the pupils were all taught metalwork. I found my niche and was in my element during those lessons; forging, using the lathe, soldering and cutting, and unusually for me was top of the class. However, to my great disappointment, when the time came to select my options, I was informed Engineering and Metalwork was the ‘boys only’ option. I was disappointed to say the least but I stored in my mind some idea that one day I would revisit metalworking. In 2010 after quite a few decades of waiting for the right time, I booked an evening class in silversmithing. I learned to design and make jewellery and my passion for metalwork was reignited. Within 18 months, and due to popular demand from friends wanting to buy from me, I was selling my creations. I have continued to refine my skills, design, make and sell my jewellery in my online Etsy shop and through my Facebook page.”
How do you define yourself?
“I am a magpie for shiny metal, and beautiful stones but also have a passion for a sustainable, responsible approach to my business. The gold and silver I use is either recycled by my suppliers, or I reuse my customers’ gold to create bespoke pieces for them. I source diamonds and precious stones from ethical suppliers and use recycled materials in packaging.”
Tell me about the evolution and range of your styles of jewellery.
“I began by making jewellery that was inspired by nature and my love of the outdoors. Over time, I have concentrated on pure form, and more contemporary abstract shapes. Learning to set my own stones is a challenge, but also a delight, those are my hands that have touched each piece from start to finish. I make everything using traditional methods of silversmithing, using hand tools. I love the forged shaped look, and adding droplets of gold, the technical term for ‘droplets’ is an unromantic ‘granulation’. Adding the sparkle of my favourite diamonds and sapphires creates a unique, contemporary look in a piece.”
What is the greatest recognition of your work so far?
“I talk to my customers and like to have a feel for who I am making for… so my recognition is from them, their reviews and feedback. I think this review is one of my favourites so far:”
“From the very moment I saw her work, I knew Fiona was the person I wanted to make a very special gift for my daughter. The communication between Fiona and myself was brilliant as she responded positively and instantly knew what I envisaged. Her patience and eagerness to supply me with a pendant that would match my idea was amazing; nothing was too much trouble. Once Fiona had confirmed all the details, she gave me a time frame and the pendant was made and dispatched within the time. It arrived securely packaged and beautifully presented in a gift box. The pendant is exquisite and has surpassed my hopes and wishes. It is a piece of art and will be treasured for years to come. If the reader needs someone with skill and vision, Fiona is this person”.
What can we expect next from you?
“I will soon be learning to carve wax to create shapes to be cast. In my imagination I have a variety of beautiful, tiny birds that will become gold and silver jewellery, I am sourcing tiny black diamonds for little beady eyes, and peacock sapphires to flush set on wings.
My dream is to create a collection of kinetic jewellery and boxes with meaning; to celebrate life, a lost love, a friendship, special moment or emotion etc. I would incorporate a series of cogs or perhaps a chain to provide movement. Doors would open, hearts would spin and birds fly around the sun. Yes, there I go again…. Another lifetime and more of ideas!”
Best of luck with your endeavours Fiona and thank you for being this months client in the spotlight.
If any other clients would like to feature in a future newsletter with a story, profile, charitable fundraising or discussion on a topic you would like to share please do get in touch.