Jewel Envy – Jewel Envy

Materials and Finishes….

August 8, 2026Jewel EnvyGeneral

I thought I’d spotlight some of the less usual materials and finishes that our goldsmiths use in their work at the studio.

(Starting from the left)

ribbon earrings by Eunice Lin with e-ceramic coating over sterling silver

steel inlay ring by Hyewon Jang

glass micromosaic earrings by Alexis Kostuk

Copper and sterling silver mokume gane ring by Gillian batcher

Steel rust brooch by Alex Kinsley Vey

Acrylic and pearl earrings by Edna Milevsky

Needled felt and sterling silver pendant by Robin Cassady-Cain

Come visit us and check out what else is here! Don’t forget, the studio is celebrating its 20th anniversary, with fun swag and jewellery for lucky golden ticket winners. Get a chance to win with all online purchases in August!

Exploring Wax Carving

July 30, 2026Jewel EnvyGeneral

Hello again blog readers. I recently dove into wax carving, inspired by antique Italian plaquettes and bronze reliefs. With my background in painting and fine art, this sculptural approach to jewelry and casting feels incredibly natural. Continuing my focus on avian imagery, I incorporated bird silhouettes and organic forms into each piece. All three designs are crafted in sterling silver, i hope you enjoy them they were tons of fun!

Highlights from SNAG x Detroit 2026

July 26, 2026July 26, 2026Jewel EnvyGeneral

The 2026 Juried Student Exhibition

Jasmeen Al Rayyes – The Land Cries for its Roots – Cast bronze, ancient bronze, steel, cement – 2025

Margaret Schupp – ISABEL – Fabric, wood, enamel, sterling silver, copper, brass, peridot – 2025

Gonzalo Gutierrez – Me and my spoons – Copper, Steel, epoxy claw – 2025

Gideon Hermann – Lessons of the Hand – Wood, brass, steel, 2025

Hello Jewel Envy readers, Ruby here!

July 21, 2026Jewel EnvyGeneral

Previously, I promised to share some of the projects I’ve been working on, and I’m excited to give you a glimpse into my recent explorations.

Lately, I’ve been drawing inspiration from nature and birds, turning those influences into a series of pendant designs. I’ve been focusing on broad, wing-like shapes while incorporating bird-inspired details such as beaks and feathers. For this pendant, I was inspired by natural forms that resemble trees, ribs, and figures, and I incorporated two lapis gemstones at its centre, one of my favourite stones!

I’ve been having a lot of fun exploring these ideas and have really appreciated access to the facilities here, which have allowed me to experiment and develop my designs further. In the studio, I’ve been soldering jump rings, cleaning up rings, taking apart old jewellery to reuse materials, and learning more about the industry every day.

Later this week, with Gillian’s help, I’ll also be working on some repair projects, something I have very little experience with. Wish me luck

Sunny Sunday at the studio

July 19, 2026July 19, 2026Jewel EnvyGeneral

I’m low-key obsessed with this emerald drop necklace by studio member Shafiq Sarwari. Drop in to see it in person (as well as the other amazing pieces he has available!).

The Pink That Pops, Rocks.

July 18, 2026July 18, 2026Jewel EnvyGeneral

Coming into the Big Blue House today was a very welcome difference to the dreariness of the weather. I wasn’t the only one, as we had lots of new vistors today, looking to be cheered and inspired by something beautiful.

As I dusted the bubble cases holding our gems, I pledged to bring attention to the brightest, cheeriest pieces which caught my eye and would do there best to turn our weather’s frown upside down.

Of course, it was, once again, Eunice’s beautiful pink expressions of joy and hope to stop the rain…

There’s nothing finer than work from a great designer!

The Birth of Sterling Silver

July 12, 2026July 12, 2026Jewel EnvyGeneral

What is sterling silver? Sterling silver, also known as S925 is an alloy made up of 92.5% fine silver and 7.5% other alloys, mostly copper. Fine silver, although pure is super soft, malleable and prone to damage.

It is said that sterling silver originated in 12th century england. The name is said to be derived from the Old Norman word “esterlin,” which meant “little star.” This term was used to describe the small silver coins that were in circulation at the time, known as “sterlings” or “pennies.” Eventually, the term “sterling” became synonymous with high-quality silver.

In 1300, King Edward I of England passed a law that required all silver items, including jewelry, to meet a certain standard of purity. This standard was set at 92.5% pure silver, the same composition as modern-day sterling silver S925. The remaining 7.5% was typically made up of copper, which added strength and durability to the silver without compromising its beauty.

Nowadays, sterling silver is still going strong and used by goldsmiths in their work, adding gemstones, enamel and making intricate designs that are a lot more affordable than gold but just as beautiful .

Enamelling at Jewel Envy

July 5, 2026July 5, 2026Jewel EnvyGeneral

Students at our one-day enamelling workshop are putting together some complex compositions.

Designs start out on tracing paper, and are then realized in copper wire forms made with pliers, and laid onto copper sheet. Enamel in liquid form is used to fill the copper form, and when heated in the kiln, becomes solid.

Check out our class in action!

Hard at Work

June 21, 2026June 21, 2026Jewel EnvyGeneral

Here is a sneak peak of award-winning Jamie, preparing for her return to high profile exhibitions this summer, including TOAF, at Nathan Phillips Square.

Giveaway Winners!

June 14, 2026June 14, 2026Jewel EnvyGeneral

This month when you purchase a class you have the chance to win a piece of jewellery. It’s an exciting day in the studio today as two winners got to select from our jewellery giveaway wall, scroll down to see what they chose.