Rachael Briggs, from Glasgow, won the competition open to students on the new BA Jewellery and Silversmithing Design for Industry course at the School of Jewellery, Birmingham City University

Students were tasked with creating a matching wedding and engagement ring to be sold as part of a high quality production range.

The jewellery will now be produced in precious metals and will later go on sale as part of the renowned jewellery manufactures Charles Green’s product range.

Charles Green – established in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter for almost 200 years – decided to launch the award to encourage the next generation of jewellery designers and manufacturers.

Rachael – together with other prizewinners – received their awards at a special Champagne reception at the School of Jewellery on Tuesday January 13.

As well as picking up a cash prize, Rachael will also benefit from two weeks’ work experience at Charles Green, where she will also develop a matching eternity ring and gents’ wedding ring to complement her other designs.

Rachael said: “The wedding and engagement ring set was inspired by the curves and closeness of a lover’s embrace. The lines from one ring flow into the others so two become one. It was designed to symbolise the love and commitment of two people that were made to be together.”

Student Sinade Prosser took second prize for her designs of rings depicting hearts, whilst third prize was shared between Kirsty Davies and Danielle Hall. Saima Hussain and Bronagh Mullan also won special commendations.

Tom Green, chairman of Charles Green, and one of the judging panel, said the setting up of the prize reflected the fact that Birmingham would remain a centre of excellence for the jewellery profession. He said: “We were extremely impressed, both by the students’ enthusiasm and their designs. They were involved in a realistic process throughout and had to take into account costings, marketing and promotion as well as timescales, on top of mastering rigorous technical skills. They came through with flying colours and this will undoubtedly prepare the students for a career within the industry, because the quality of what was produced was of paramount importance, and the standards displayed were of the highest order.”

Claire Price, a self-employed jewellery designer and part-time tutor on the course, said the competition helped students gain a visual insight into how new product development takes place within a jewellery manufacturing company.

She said: “The course provides a unique opportunity to understand the role and significance of a designer within the jewellery and silversmithing industry. Whilst there is clear emphasis on new technology, the course builds on existing traditional skills to enhance manufacturing potential. We are delighted to partner with Charles Green in order to encourage and nurture the very best talent Birmingham has.”

Gaynor Andrews, Course Director for the new Top-up degree programme added “ This has provided an excellent opportunity for the students who have embraced the experience and responded professionally to the brief. We hope this partnership will continue to develop and would like to thank the company for their support and generosity.

For more information please visit  Charles Green