The inspiration for Isobel’s pieces comes from nature, with many of her finished designs being made from silver and gold. We spoke to Isobel to learn more about her work in the following interview, so read on to discover the pieces she is particularly proud of, the tool she couldn’t live without and her advice for those who are new to jewellery making…
Let us know a bit about yourself, detailing your background, study and training in the jewellery making industry.
Hello, my name is Isobel Stamford and I am the jewellery artist, designer and maker at Isabela Jewellery based in Fife, Scotland. I originally trained in Harp Therapy and have a Degree in Psychology, and have always been interested in the Arts as Therapy. That’s actually how I found my affinity with jewellery making, having attended a full-time course at my local college (Fife College) as part of my own rehabilitation after a long-term illness. I simply loved the classes and soaked up everything I could about traditional jewellery making techniques. I found that I was actually good at it and from that my confidence grew, and my business Isabela Jewellery was born.
Tell us about your work – are there any particular materials or techniques that you favour?
I tend to work with precious metals silver and gold, but have incorporated base metals such as brass and copper into some of my pieces. I also love stone setting and make all my bezels by hand. I have tried my hand at enamelling, but have a lot still to learn about this technique. The other material I like using is Keumboo, I love the flash of gold inside my cup designs.
How would you best describe your design style?
I would definitely say that I have a more modern contemporary style, and absolutely love a classic high-quality finish. Right now I am currently working on a Contemporary Celtic collection for my upcoming launch at Scotland Trade Fair Launch Gallery at the SEC, Glasgow on the 16th – 17th September 2018.
As a jewellery maker, where do you like to get your inspiration from for your pieces?
Definitely from nature, using all her elements. For example in a recent exhibition I was invited to attend, the theme was the Falls of Clyde. As I wandered around the Falls of Clyde looking for inspiration, I connected with the colours of the water and felt compelled to incorporate both copper and brass into some of my designs to represent the colours of the peat in the water.
Do you have a piece that you have made which you favour or are particularly proud of?
I actually have two pieces. The first piece I call my Rose Ring (below). It was the first ever ring I made. It is sterling silver and set with a Rhodochrosite cabochon. I think this is the piece that made me feel I am good at this jewellery making business!
The second piece is my flower brooch (below). I won Cooksongold Design of the Week with this piece and that made me feel really proud. The brooch is sterling silver and enamel.
What is the one item in your jewellery making workshop that you could not live without?
It’s got to be my Dremel – I just simply couldn’t live without it. I don’t think much explanation is needed with that!
What upcoming trends do you see being popular soon?
I am seeing a bit of a mixture of eclectic, bold and elegant designs. I know that the brooch is making a comeback, and I think long earrings too.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learnt from your time in the jewellery making industry?
Attention to detail and the finish of a piece. I have discovered that I need to take time to finish a piece properly. This is very much part of my aesthetic and makes my jewellery what it is today.
Do you have any particular advice that you would give to up and coming jewellery designers, or someone interested in getting into jewellery making?
Stick to it – if a piece falls apart or something goes wrong, which it inevitably will, don’t give up. Jewellery making can both be frustrating and exhilarating all in the one breath. There has been many a time that I’ve just wanted to throw a piece out of the window or in the bin, but just simply had to keep going – it really is worth it.
…and finally, time for a bit of fun in our quick fire round! Tell us your favourite…
…food – peaches
…city – Edinburgh
…colour – rose gold
…biscuit – digestive
…animal – dog
For more details on Isobel’s work feel free to visit her website or Facebook page. You can also find information on Scotland’s Trade Fair Launch Gallery, which Isobel will be attending in September 2018, here.
Cooksongold