Wongs Jewellers has clinched the Social Storytelling award at the 2026 Liverpool Celebrates Awards, celebrating their creative collaboration with local eatery Derek’s. This partnership produced a unique sandwich honoring Chinese New Year, resonating with the community and reaching a wider audience through an engaging social media campaign. The initiative earned Wongs recognition in three award categories, underscoring the brand’s growing prominence in the industry. Mr. Wong praised the fusion of food and culture as a significant aspect of the project, reflecting the vibrant spirit of Liverpool.
Category: Events
Duke of Gloucester marks 250 years of hallmarking in Sheffield
The Duke of Gloucester visited the Sheffield Assay Office on September 4, 2026, to mark the 250th anniversary of hallmarking in the city, an essential part of its rich silversmithing heritage. The Duke engaged in demonstrations of both traditional and modern hallmarking techniques, including advanced X-ray technology for precious metal analysis. Celebrations emphasized the Assay Office’s dedication to blending historical craftsmanship with contemporary innovations, ensuring the ongoing relevance and preservation of Sheffield’s iconic Tudor Rose hallmark.
Goldsmiths’ Centre to showcase traditional Korean jewellery technique this autumn
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.
Nudie named emerging brand of the year at professional jeweller awards
Herefordshire’s Nudie jewellery brand has been named Emerging Brand of the Year at the 2026 Professional Jeweller Awards, celebrating its innovative designs for those with sensitive skin. Founded by Eckley, who faced personal challenges with jewellery irritation, Nudie creates hypoallergenic and waterproof pieces, donating £1 from each sale to the British Skin Foundation. Since its inception in mid-2025, the brand has gained significant recognition, including awards and a presence on the BAFTA red carpet, showcasing a remarkable ascent within the competitive jewellery industry.
Jewellery retailers prepare for growth at 2026 Retail Congress
The National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) is set to host its Retail Congress 2026 on June 2 at Drayton Manor, aimed at supporting jewellery retailers grappling with diminished consumer spending. The event will feature a host of expert speakers, including Bank of England representative Glynn Jones and former UK Small Business Commissioner Liz Barclay, who will share crucial insights to help businesses thrive. Additionally, attendees can look forward to a networking dinner the night before, fostering collaboration and community within the industry. With a focus on actionable strategies, the congress promises to equip retailers with the tools needed to navigate today’s challenging retail landscape.
Hong Kong to host twin jewellery exhibitions in March 2026
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) has unveiled plans for its jewellery exhibitions in March 2026, featuring the International Jewellery Show and the Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show. Taking place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and AsiaWorld-Expo respectively, these events will embrace a hybrid model, incorporating the innovative Click2Match AI platform. Highlights include a renewed focus on gold jewellery and specialized displays such as the Hall of Extraordinary and the Hall of Fine Diamonds. A design competition themed “Pure Elegance – Natural Beauty” aims to harness big data and social media’s growing influence in the industry. Attendees will benefit from an enhanced mobile app for streamlined entry, aimed at improving the overall visitor experience.
Somerset craftsman named precious metalworker of the year
Stephen M Goldsmith, a skilled metal polisher from Somerset, has been named Precious Metalworker of the Year at a ceremony held at Wentworth Woodhouse. The award, which includes a £2,000 prize and a trophy from The Royal Mint, acknowledges Goldsmith’s outstanding contributions to the craft over his 50 years of experience, working on prestigious items such as the Premier League trophy. Finalists for the accolade included esteemed silversmiths Angela Cork and Alice Fry, highlighting the importance of preserving traditional craft skills in the face of modern challenges. Goldsmith expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the need to inspire the next generation of artisans.