Sustainable Jewellery

Sustainability is foremost in the minds of many designer-makers at the moment; there has been a surge of environmentally-sustainable developments in the collections shown worldwide. Jewelers are very aware of sustainability issues, as such a large proportion of their traditional materials come from non-sustainable sources (precious stones and metals) and they have traditionally used acids, dyes, and other techniques not renowned for their eco-friendliness. This book will encourage makers to recycle and show how 'pre-loved' or traditionally throw-away materials can provide new inspiration. Includes stunning photos of the work of established and experimental jewelers from around the world.

Julia Manheim is a jeweler by training, but became well-known in the 1980s for her large-scale but light sculptural bodywear, made from materials such as painted newspaper and plastic. She is also a sculptor and installation artist with a passion for sustainability and recycled materials.  Julia is Senior Lecturer on the BA Jewellery Programme at Middlesex University in the UK where her students are encouraged to explore the concept of jewelery broadly, using new materials to fulfull artistic expression rather than employing conventional standards.

"Packed with witty photography and commentary from leading designers in this area, this may make you see recycling in a new light."—Crafts magazine  "An open and inviting selection of work in an eclectic mix of materials from discarded and distorted found objects, everyday plastics, curious and well as conceptual and ephemeral manifestations."—Findings