The Hands Behind the Jewels

I chose this conversation for its attention to apprenticeship, restoration and practical knowledge accumulated over a lifetime. I am interested in the patience behind a finished piece, and in how experienced makers pass that judgement to the next generation.

I want viewers to look closely at the settings as well as the gemstones. Scott McIntyre discusses techniques and tools, including pavé, tension and channel settings. This episode gives practical context to the precision I explore visually in my macro studies.

Finishing was a recurring concern as I developed The Sovereign Within. I selected this interview to give space to the specialist who shapes how a surface meets the light. Stephen Goldsmith discusses professional polishing, common mistakes and his experience with Theo Fennell and the Royal Mint.

I chose Michelle Lierre’s account of filigree because intricacy has an emotional presence for me. Her conversation explores different traditions, inspiration and passing knowledge on. It invites a closer appreciation of the fine metalwork behind an elaborate design.

This historical episode brings Lalique’s jewellery into conversation with literature and character. I selected it because I want the detail in my own piece to support feeling and meaning. It offers a different kind of listening from the practical interviews: a story centred on a particular jewel.

Fabergé is an inspiration for my interest in ambitious, carefully considered objects. This programme follows the Celtic Egg commission and visits the world of workmaster Marcus Mohr and the craftspeople maintaining traditional enamelling techniques. I chose it to bring workshop collaboration into the collection.

The programme is documented by Fabergé. BBC playback availability could not be independently confirmed when this collection was prepared. Read Fabergé’s programme note.