BAJ and Lewis Malka collaborate for engagement ring scheme

The British Academy of Jewellery has announced the culmination of its collaboration with Lewis Malka and the London Diamond Bourse.

BAJ design and manufacturing diploma students were challenged to design and make a ring inspired by the concept of cultural identity. The pieces were wax carved and cast in silver, with many featuring set stones.

Four students were awarded prizes for their designs. Lewis Malka presented the awards to four students, Daniela Nanii, Inti Yeung, Kate Bell, and Thea Taylor, at a recent event and pop-up exhibition in London.

The four winners were awarded the ‘Lewis Malka Award for Engagement Ring Excellence’ and received a copy of Lewis Malka’s book ‘The Engagement Ring’. The winners will also receive one-on-one sessions with the jeweller at the London Diamond Bourse, where their work will also be exhibited.

Malka said: “It was a pleasure to be involved in this wonderful project. The work the BAJ does is fabulous. There are some truly inspirational and talented people applying themselves to jewellery making at the moment.

“As someone who came through as an apprentice some thirty years ago, specialising in handmade engagement rings, it was a no brainer to be involved in the Engagement Ring project. It wasn’t easy to pick the winners. There were some incredible rings, and I’m delighted to have been asked to get involved.”

Stacey Aylott, chief operating officer at the London Diamond Bourse, added: “On behalf of the London Diamond Bourse, we congratulate all those that participated in this fantastic initiative, and we look forward to welcoming the winners to the LDB later on this month.”

The BAJ’s technical diploma coordinator, Sally Collins, said: “Working with Lewis Malka and the Diamond Bourse on this amazing opportunity for our Level 4 students has been completely invaluable; real life industry experiences make such an impact on learning and understanding of what is required out there in the jewellery industry.

“We’re so grateful for the support from Lewis and the Diamond Bourse and hope this is the beginning of an exciting and fruitful relationship for years to come.”

source https://www.jewelleryfocus.co.uk/204832-baj-and-lewis-malka-collaborate-for-engagement-ring-scheme