University News Last updated 04 November
探花直播 (BCU) graduate Ruby Lanigan has landed a prestigious Bright New Gems award thanks to her bold and architecturally inspired jewellery designs.
A recent graduate of BCU鈥檚 renowned Jewellery and Silversmithing programme, the 25-year-old from Ludlow impressed judges of the 鈥楽how Off - Statement Pieces鈥� category with a series of collections rooted in architectural influence.
鈥淏aroque architecture has always captivated me,鈥� said Ruby, pictured.
鈥淪ince I began designing jewellery, I鈥檝e been drawn to its intricacy and grandeur. It鈥檚 just so ornate and attention-grabbing. I love translating that kind of visual drama into wearable art.鈥�
As part of her award, Ruby will showcase her designs at the UK Jewellery Festival in London this March, where all winners will have the opportunity to exhibit their work.
鈥淲hen I found out I had won, I was in complete shock,鈥� said Ruby.
鈥淎 current colleague of mine, Daisy Grice, won back in 2019 and really encouraged me to apply, but I never expected I鈥檇 actually be selected.鈥�
Ruby credits BCU for a large chunk of her success, adding that studying there has been a transformative experience.
鈥淏efore university, I was self-taught, just learning from YouTube, but BCU gave me access to professional teaching, incredible opportunities, and real industry exposure,鈥� she said.
鈥淭his year alone, we showcased our work in Paris, which was a huge milestone for me.鈥�
Ruby also credits the broader jewellery design community for keeping her inspired.
鈥淒esigners like Tessa Metcalfe really stand out to me. She creates such cool bespoke work. I鈥檝e also met amazing creatives running their own brands. It's inspiring to be part of that world.鈥�
Looking ahead, Ruby is excited to build on her recent success.
鈥淭he past few months have been a whirlwind, from finishing university, to showing in Paris, landing my job, and now this award,鈥� she said.
Ruby has also secured a position as a Junior CAD Designer at Weston Beamor, a leading UK jewellery manufacturer, while continuing to develop her own designs.
鈥淚鈥檓 just trying to take it all in and keep creating,鈥� she said. 鈥淢y ultimate goal is to launch my own collections and put more of my personal work out into the world.鈥�