.jpeg)
A bit about me...
My name is Aida, I design and make silver jewellery by hand using traditional jewellery making techniques at my studio in St. Saviour, Jersey (Channel Islands).
I am a member of Genuine Jersey, a local association which promotes the quality of local handmade products.
All sold items can be made again, similar or bespoke to your needs. You are welcome to come to my studio and discuss any commission work.
How I work
I work mainly on sterling silver, Argentium and fine silver, as well as 9-18ct gold (commission only) sometimes using pottery shards, sea glass, semi precious gemstones and pearls.
My designs are inspired both on things I see out and about Jersey and memories from growing up in Spain. Nature, animals and specially insects and sea creatures are my great inspiration and love; I love the countryside and beaches in Jersey, they are amaizingly beautiful. If you haven't been to Jersey or the Channel Islands, they are definitely worth the visit.
Finding 'treasure', such as the pottery shards found on Jersey beaches, is such fun. I sometimes shape them as hearts as close to the original size and shape and set them in sterling silver; this is why they are all different. Each piece of jewellery is made from scratch by me and is unique, always different in pattern and shape.
Did you know most of the shards come either from shipwrecks of tea-carrying vessels on their way back to London, late in the 18th century? Others seem to be part of the waste thrown to sea by the castle dwellers or tea rooms around the island during the 19th century. Most pieces belong to the Willow Pattern series, depicting a forbidden love story by the daughter of a wealthy man and his assistant who ended up being killed and turned into doves flying in the centre of the design. But I have also identified earlier pieces...
I only use traditional tools and techniques, every item I make is from my own design and inspiration. I guarantee all my work for its quality and craftsmanship and include free cleaning and maintenance of all my pieces to my customers.
On January 2016, I decided to set up as a sole trader and became a member of Genuine Jersey on March 2016.
I love what Genuine Jersey stands for and their values, specially in this modern world of cheap multi production and throw-away society. I am obviously not from Jersey but I adore this island, its beauty, history and people. Being a member of Genuine Jersey, a platform that protects good quality and craftsmanship in Jersey, means a great deal to me.
After doing summer markets at St. Aubin's, Simply Spring and Simply Christmas at the Royal Square, and a couple of other events, I decided to move to bigger premises. Renting in town is out of the question for artists due to costs, so I fixed the garage a bit, insulated it and built myself a new studio.
Since 2022 I have been teaching basic jewellery making techniques at the Philip Mourant Centre in Trinity, as part of the Highlands Adult Education scheme. I designed 3 levels that seem to be very popular with my students. My favourite part is when I hand my students their first piece straight out of the polisher... their faces light up when they see them and its a great fun feeling.
Thank you for all the support. It all makes it possible for me as an artist to do what I love.
All the best,
Aida x
Some examples of my work...
