BAJ Graduate Show 2026 Celebrates Emerging Jewellery Talent, Craftsmanship and Industry Recognition

BAJ Graduate Show 2026 Celebrates Emerging Jewellery Talent, Craftsmanship and Industry Recognition

13 Jul 2026

The British Academy of Jewellery (BAJ) celebrated the achievements of its BA (Hons) Jewellery Design & Production graduates at the BAJ Graduate Show 2026.

Held at KOPPEL Collective in London, the exhibition showcased final collections developed through live industry projects, collaborative briefs and independent research, highlighting the creativity, technical skill and critical thinking of this year's graduating cohort.

A milestone for the graduating cohort

The exhibition opened with a Private View attended by industry guests, family and friends, welcoming visitors throughout the weekend to explore the graduates' collections and meet the makers behind the work.

Opening the exhibition, Course Leader and Director of Research Dr Sofie Boons highlighted the significance of the occasion,

"To see the graduating cohort here on display is a big milestone. For us as educators, these graduates have been our trailblazers."

Exploring contemporary themes through jewellery

The graduating collections explored themes including identity, remembrance, consumer culture, mortality and human experience. Through jewellery, objects and installation, students demonstrated how contemporary jewellery can communicate ideas, challenge perspectives and tell powerful stories.

Discussing the graduates' journey, Dr Boons said,

"We have witnessed these students gain confidence in making and thinking. The work on display has dared to take on some big themes - objectification, mortality, consumerism, remembrance and grief."

Industry awards and recognition

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of industry-sponsored awards recognising technical skill, conceptual development, branding and critical engagement. - Technical Excellence Award sponsored by Cooksongold - Blue Twyman - Brand Visionary Award sponsored by Forge, Hatton Garden - Veronika Dika - Critical Consciousness Award sponsored by Just Castings - Emily Murphy - Conceptual Depth Award sponsored by Ward Gemstones - Emily Murphy - Innovation Award sponsored by Cece Jewellery - Natalie Asher-Martin Additional awards and prizes were presented with the support of industry partners, reflecting the strong relationship between BAJ and the wider jewellery sector.

Education and industry working together

The Graduate Show brought together sponsors, employers and jewellery professionals to celebrate the achievements of the graduating students. Industry partnerships provide students with opportunities to engage with real-world briefs, develop professional networks and gain recognition as they begin their careers.

Addressing the graduating students, Dr Boons concluded,

"Craft your path, don't forget to care and please stay in touch. We believe you will all do great things."

BAJ extends its thanks to the teaching team, industry sponsors, judges, family and friends whose support contributed to the success of the graduating cohort.

View The British Academy of Jewellery

Source: BAJ