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lynnm
26-01-2010, 08:11 PM
I read a post about a show, exhibition... in Birmingham in February? can't find it now though
ps_bond
26-01-2010, 08:21 PM
Spring Fair (http://www.springfair.com/)?
lynnm
26-01-2010, 08:31 PM
thought it was more jewellery making orientated... probably me :( but thanks
ps_bond
26-01-2010, 09:31 PM
It's quite big, and a large chunk of it is devoted to jewellery from what I understand.
Emerald
26-01-2010, 09:37 PM
The NEC Spring Fair is a huge trade show for buying mainly gift ware, manufactured jewellery and components, there are also some jewellery tool trade stands and there always used to be a handful of artisans but i dont know wether this is the case anymore but no its not about making as such, some of the big manufactureres may have some of there chain making machines there though behind glass for demonstration purposes :)
lynnm
27-01-2010, 01:39 AM
oh right... is it worth the trip then?
MuranoSilver
27-01-2010, 08:17 AM
Definately worth the trip!
lynnm
27-01-2010, 08:26 AM
well must see what I can do!
mizgeorge
27-01-2010, 08:28 AM
Depends on your perspective. If you're looking to buy finished jewellery (mostly imported) for resale, then definitely worth it. There are some findings suppliers for things like hill tribe silver and some gemstones and beads. Chains too, but they're not going to be huge bargains.

It can be fun to have a wander round and meet up with people if you like, but I'm unconvinced it's necessarily worth a long journey. A really good bead/gem fair can be a better bet for a lot of makers.
lynnm
27-01-2010, 08:40 AM
was thinking that it isn't to far from the Jewellery Quarter anyway ...
mizgeorge
27-01-2010, 08:59 AM
It isn't, though I'm not sure I'd try to do both in a day. If you're just wanting to look at tools or collect catalogues, then it might be worth it - though IJL in London in September would probably be better.
MuranoSilver
27-01-2010, 10:37 AM
There are quite a few good cabouchon suppliers and also people who do some interesting silver findings. I also find it useful to see what colours & trends are coming through.
I agree with George re the Rock n Gem shows but it's good to see the finished jewellery and some of the higher end contemorary stuff too ;)
Nic x
lynnm
27-01-2010, 11:17 AM
but it's good to see the finished jewellery and some of the higher end contemorary stuff too ;)
Nic x

and what makes you think I'm not High End???

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y148/lynnwithoutane/smilies/lol/giggly.gif
Ominicci
29-01-2010, 06:40 PM
Lynn there is a Rock, Gem & Bead Fair (http://www.rockngem.co.uk/) over here in Chepstow Racecourse this weekend Sat & Sun. From you it would be less than 45 mins drive (plus £5.50 for Bridge and £3.50 entry). It is usually quite good with a good variety of things for sale including beads (glass, semiprecious, lampwork etc), pliers, precious cut stones, cabochons. In the 'rock' bit there are fossils, crystals and rocks to buy to cut (lapidary) and is quite entertaining for kids (if you have/need to take them).

I'll be going on the Sunday so give me a shout if you decide to come that day. I'll PM you my number.
lynnm
29-01-2010, 06:43 PM
Lynn there is a Rock, Gem & Bead Fair (http://www.rockngem.co.uk/) over here in Chepstow Racecourse this weekend Sat & Sun. From you it would be less than 45 mins drive (plus £5.50 for Bridge and £3.50 entry). It is usually quite good with a good variety of things for sale including beads (glass, semiprecious, lampwork etc), pliers, precious cut stones, cabochons. In the 'rock' bit there are fossils, crystals and rocks to buy to cut (lapidary) and is quite entertaining for kids (if you have/need to take them).

I'll be going on the Sunday so give me a shout if you decide to come that day. I'll PM you my number.

Oh thanks Nicci, will let you know if I can! :D