The Goldsmiths’ Centre in London is hosting a unique workshop on the traditional Korean jewellery technique of Keum-boo on 12 and 13 November. Led by award-winning jeweller Hendrike Barz-Meltzer, this intensive course provides 12 hours of hands-on training for a limited group of ten participants. Amid escalating precious metal costs, the workshop aims to teach efficient gold use, ensuring that artisans can adapt their practices to meet current economic challenges while enhancing their craftsmanship.
Day: 4 September 2026
London Assay Office marks third anniversary with over 500 jewellery inspections
In a concerted effort to uphold consumer protection, the London Assay Office’s Operation Stamping It Out has completed over 500 jewellery inspections across various regions, revealing numerous violations of hallmarking regulations. Notable cases include a Westminster trader who faced a warning for selling un-hallmarked gold and a Birmingham retailer now facing prosecution for similar breaches. The initiative seeks to ensure compliance with the Hallmarking Act of 1973 and safeguard consumers’ interests in the jewellery market. Director Will Evans reiterated the fundamental role of hallmarking in providing assurance to buyers regarding the authenticity of precious metals.
Breitling’s owners express confidence amid financial pressures
Partners Group remains optimistic about the future of luxury watchmaker Breitling, despite the brand’s significant €1.5 billion debt and a recent downgrade from S&P Global. CEO Georges Kern emphasized a long-term vision for the brand, even as sales fell by 11% to CHF 769 million. As Breitling expands its retail footprint to include 300 boutiques, Partners Group navigates broader refinancing challenges affecting multiple investments. While financial pressures mount, Kern’s strategic focus on brand enhancement and diversified collections reflects an ambition to reshape the company’s trajectory amidst market headwinds.
Phillips raises CHF 115,500 for watchmaking education in charity auction
Phillips has raised CHF 115,500 for watchmaking education in a charity auction held during Geneva Watch Days, bringing the total funds raised over four editions to CHF 519,400. The event featured 16 unique lots, with a standout watch by Konstantin Chaykin selling for CHF 24,000. Proceeds will support scholarships for financially challenged apprentices at l’École d’Horlogerie de Genève, Switzerland’s oldest watchmaking school, highlighting the crucial role of such initiatives in nurturing the next generation of artisans.