Get Your Rocks On at contemporary jewellery exhibition

Curated by jewellery expert and lecturer Joanna Hardy, ten designers from around the world will have work featured in the show. The exhibition aims to showcase ‘the vast potential and diversity of contemporary jewellery and its rightful alignment with the world of fine art’, according to organisers.

Among the beautiful pieces on show are those from UK-based designer Sophia Mann, a graduate of Central Saint Martins. Mann creates sculptural-looking beaded jewellery using an array of materials including rough diamond, ruby, coral, shell and antique glass beads.

Fellow UK designer Kevin Coates bases his creations on symbolic imagery, using items such as brooches as a form of narrative with miniature creatures and characters. For instance, his Notebook of Pins collection references the ancient pin form, with each piece set into its own notebook page, which details its materials and inspiration.

Hardy curated the show around the principles of showing distinctive, original pieces.

‘I believe jewellery should reflect the wearer’s individuality but to find well made, unique jewels is often not easy’, she says.

‘These ten eclectic international jewellery designer/makers, some of whom are established master craftsmen and others that are emerging or have never showcased in the UK before, have this talent.

‘This exhibition puts jewels on a platform where they can be appreciated as wearable art.’

Art Rocks: Contemporary Jewellery runs from 1 December 2011 – 30 January 2012 at Shizaru, 112 Mount Street, Mayfair, London, W1K