here are the winners of the BAGUE EXTRAORDINAIRE AWARD , chosen by me among the over 130 artists/designers participating in the Cluster Jewellery Fair, which took place in London in December 2024. it was not an easy task and I must say that there were inumerous incredible rings and so much more! i will soon share interviews with the three artists on Instagram, so stay tuned. GRACE MIELL CARMEN VOLLEBERGH SANDRINE DIODATI

Janine reached out to me over three years ago, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the connection we’ve built since then. Her work is absolutely stunning, and her passion is truly inspiring. Over the years, we've bonded over our shared love of rings, cats, and so much more. I always enjoy following her adventures—she travels often, and I love "tagging along" virtually. Her Top Tip Tuesday  series is a gem (don’t miss it—it’s practically a public service), and of course, I’m constantly in awe of her beautiful cluster ombré rings and all the colorful pieces she creates. We’ve shared plenty of laughs, whether it’s over the occasional rude comments that show up on our pages, the frequent use of tweezers that comes with our age, or the delightful chaos our fur babies get into. It’s been a joy to support her, and I deeply appreciate the support she’s shown me in return. When my daughter traveled to South Africa last year, Janine kindly offered to welcome her for a studio visit—which, unfortunately, didn’t pan out due to timing. But next time, for sure! This self-proclaimed mermaid is fabulous, funny, and full of energy, and I’m so glad she’s sharing her story here today. JANINE BINNEMAN I have been an independent jewelry designer for nearly thirty years- I can’t believe it’s been that long! I am a qualified goldsmith and gemologist BUT it is a world that I fell into ALMOST by accident.   I took a gap year after school and ended up in Southern Italy as an au pair; I wanted to study Graphic Design and did my university portfolio whilst living in Italy- my inspiration was influenced by the opulence and colors of Italian Design- especially living on the Amalfi coast with its incredibly bright and beautiful Ceramics. The University loved my portfolio but decided I would be better suited to studying jewelry design and manufacture- and voilà! here I am!   I am obsessed with Colored gemstones and sharing the never-ending variety and array of these magical creations of Mother Nature is my passion – most of which I find myself from dealers or mines themselves all over the world. I will only source via transparent and ethical supply chains and if it’s a woman owned business, I get even more excited. One on my most treasured connections is with a group of Artisanal Women Miners in Kenya who I buy my Mermaid Sapphire rough from.   I am an inherently curious and excitable soul and being given an opportunity to explore and express someone’s story through the unique jewelry I create for them is both a passion and a privilege. My heart literally does star jumps. My design process leans into the connections I make with my clients, be it in an in-person design consultation or an online conversation and from there the magic begins – exploring the colors, the meanings, shapes and sizes of the stones that speak to the client. It’s an organic process and no two Janine Binneman multi-colored, cluster rings have ever (or will ever) be the same.   Some of the rings I create may include stones from a client’s inherited jewelry or I may source a specific focal gem for their cluster – either way, there is always a story to tell about each final piece. Importantly, the recipient will have been on the sourcing and design journey with me – I believe this is what makes each and every cluster so much more valuable to the wearer, they are deeply embedded in the process. I have clients choose stones according to their intentions, their children’s (or dogs) birth months, because ‘green is their good luck color’ and blue the color of their partner’s eyes. The important thing is that the story is theirs and theirs alone. @janinebinnemanjewellery

Armach 1ct Oval White Diamond Organic Engagement Signet Ring Ellis and I first connected on Instagram back in 2022 — I came across her work and was immediately captivated. Fast-forward a couple of years, and we reconnected through Clio Saskia , who had kindly invited me to meet her and other artists at the Goldsmiths' Centre in London (I was there in December for a few days of events and visits). Ellis is such a confident young woman with extraordinary talent and impeccable taste. It was an immense treat not only to meet her in person but also to be welcomed into her atelier, to try on her stunning pieces, and to dive into wonderful conversations about jewelry and creativity. I took several beautiful photos, which I shared both on Instagram and on the blog. It brought me so much joy when she accepted my invitation to be featured in the Spotlight — her deep passion for her heritage shines through all of her work. It has truly been a pleasure to stay in touch with her and to continue sharing her incredible artistry. ELLIS MHAIRI CAMERON I create sculptural gold & diamond jewelry, inspired by Scottish heritage. Originally from the Highlands of Scotland, I grew up surrounded by the seascape and mountains; places filled with history that feel primal and beautifully raw. These early experiences formed my love for imperfect beauty, erosion, and began my research into topophilia*; the term for a bond with one's environment - a person's mental, emotional, and cognitive ties to a place.   In terms of my journey into jewelry, I initially moved from the Scottish Highlands to Glasgow in 2010 to take up a place on an art foundation course. I initially applied with an intent to study sculpture or painting, but discovered jewelry and fell in love with its potential. For me, jewelry encompassed a little bit of everything; I could collage and paint in design sketchbooks, before moving into small scale three-dimensional ''sculpture'', through creating jewelry. I then went on to learn technical skills through a BA in Jewelry & Silversmithing at The Glasgow School of Art, before moving to London in 2015, to study for a Masters in Jewelry Design at Central Saint Martins.  I launched my jewelry brand in 2018, with a desire to create jewelry inspired by my heritage, a belief in the beauty of imperfections, hand craftsmanship and to provide clients with jewelry to be handed down the generations. Today in 2025, my team and myself are based in a by appointment studio at The Goldsmiths Centre, London. Stockists such as Twist and Liberty London now sell my work internationally and I have been lucky enough to be featured in articles and photoshoots in publications such as VOGUE, Financial Times HTSI, Sunday Times Style & FORBES.  In terms of upcoming events, we show twice a year at Melee in NYC and in August we also travel for trunk shows at our stockist Esqueleto - this year we will be travelling to all four Esqueleto locations; NYC, LA, Mill Valley & Oakland.  I am currently working on a new collection of work, to launch August 2025. In March 2024, The Goldsmiths Company awarded me a Large Bursary Grant to continue my engraving studies, so I am really enjoying this process of bringing new techniques into my work. April - June is normally my design development time, so this is always an exciting time for research for me.  Armach Diamond Eternity Ring Armach Diamond Eternity Ring Armach Diamond Eternity Ring @ellismhairicameron

Time truly flies! I first spoke with Marion back in 2022 when she reached out to share her work with me. From the beginning, she was warm, enthusiastic, and incredibly kind. Her pieces instantly stood out—there’s something unmistakably “Marion” about them. She has a bold approach to design, blending metals, stones, and unexpected shapes in a way that feels both fresh and personal. I’ve really enjoyed watching her creative journey evolve, and I’m so happy to have played even a small part in helping her share her work with a wider audience. It’s always a joy to support artists who create with such sincerity and dedication. You can feel the love and intention behind every piece—and that kind of authenticity is something worth celebrating. MARION STERNER It’s a bit like falling in love: an idea takes hold—you try to bring it to life, discover how to make it real, and then finally see it materialize before your eyes. That feeling, I believe, lies at the heart of every creative process. In my professional life, I develop innovative processes for the paper industry. It’s an interesting and international field, but progress moves slowly—it can take years for a new idea to reach the market. I longed for something more immediate, something that allowed me to express emotions and ideas with my own hands, to work with tangible materials, and to experience the emotional impact of a finished piece—first on myself, and then on others. That’s when I realized jewelry was the right path for me. Like anyone, I find inspiration in the world around me, and sometimes an image or concept forms so vividly in my mind that I feel compelled to make it real—something wearable, infused with all the passion of that exact moment. For me, this is a personal luxury: the joy of creation, the uniqueness of expression, and the hope that the future wearer feels that same spark. I was born in Germany, where I studied interior architecture. Later, I moved to Venice, Italy, to pursue a postgraduate degree in architecture—an experience that deeply shaped my creative journey. @marion_sterner_bijoux

Barbara and I began talking back in 2021, when she was just graduating from FIT – the Fashion Institute of Technology – and transitioning into jewelry after working as a photographer. She wanted to share her work with me, and I found it instantly captivating—especially a delicate flask in the shape of a fish (pictured above) I loved it and remember thinking it would look incredible as a ring – I actually did give her the suggestion. Fast forward a couple of years, and we reconnected—Barbara had, in fact, transformed that very fish flask into a ring! Since then, her work has evolved remarkably. Her pieces all carry a whimsical, magical, and delicate style that feels both personal and enchanting. It’s always gratifying to witness an artist grow, find their voice, and create pieces that are truly pleasing to the eye. That’s exactly the case with Barbara—this exchange reflects not only her evolution as an artist, but also the connection I’ve felt to the work she’s created. Looking forward to much more! BARBARA SALINAS My name is Barbara Salinas and I am the designer and founder of the New York based brand BEA .  I’ve always been a natural artist. I studied at the International Center of Photography and the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. My artistic journey began with photography—capturing the beauty of the world through my lens. That experience opened my eyes to the intricate details and textures in everyday life, sparking a deep passion for creating something tangible. As I immersed myself in photography, I found myself increasingly drawn to making things with my hands. This shift led me to jewelry design—a natural evolution that allowed me to merge visual storytelling with the tactile joy of crafting unique, meaningful pieces. My creative path has also been deeply influenced by my father, a talented blacksmith artist. Growing up, I spent countless hours watching him transform raw metal into beautiful, expressive objects—each one a testament to his skill and imagination. That early exposure to metalwork shaped the way I approach jewelry: with an appreciation for craftsmanship, attention to detail, and emotional depth. For me, design is all about telling a story—one that the viewer can feel emotionally connected to. When someone sees a part of themselves reflected in a piece, that connection becomes powerful. My work is filled with symbolic elements that invite people in and resonate on a deeper level. Wearing jewelry that one identifies with is empowering. It’s a brave form of expression—a visual extension of the inner self, a wearable piece of the soul. Just before I enrolled in the jewelry design program at FIT, I bought a classic 1962 vintage Airstream and have been restoring it ever since. The Airstream has become a part of my story, too. My grandfather had a vintage camper, and I was always fascinated by it growing up. That memory stayed with me and eventually sparked the idea: what better way to share and sell my jewelry than from a beautifully restored vintage Airstream? It’s more than just a mobile studio—it’s a living, moving piece of my personal and creative journey. @beasalinas.art

Smoky Quartz ring - Finalist Retailer Choice Awards Renata and I crossed paths through a page that showcases beautiful jewelry on Instagram. I came across one of her creations and felt compelled to share it. In response, she sent me the most thoughtful message of thanks and from that moment on, our conversations never stopped. Almost two years later, we've yet to meet in person, but our bond continues to grow. Renata, like me, is Brazilian, though she’s been living in the U.S. for many years. She visits home frequently, keeping a strong connection to her roots. What truly stands out about her is her unwavering commitment to creating ethical and stunning jewelry. Her belief in positivity and her ability to see the good in others is incredibly refreshing, especially in a world where many of us often struggle with self-doubt and skepticism toward others. She channels the energy of nature, cosmic forces, and her own boundless creativity into crafting jewelry that is not only beautiful but also deeply tactile. Her rings are phenomenal, but it’s her crocheted gold (or silver) pouches, adorned with crystals, gems, or pearls, that are simply out of this world—mesmerizing in their beauty. Renata has taken inspiration from her grandmother’s artisanal work and transformed it into a powerful amulet, a tangible connection to her heritage. Words can't capture how much her friendship means to me; she has become a significant part of my life, both personally and professionally. It is both a pleasure and an honor to share her work and a glimpse into her world with you today. RENATA CAMBAÚVA A Human Being, Being Human.  Awe Inspired and Ever Evolving.     Renata Cambaúva’s passion for non-traditional and raw gem jewelry shines through as she shares insights of the sacred geometry of life into her collections. Each piece, infused with Latin American influences and mystery, tells a story of connection, self-acceptance, and spiritual awakening. Renata Cambaúva’s journey, from her background in design and advertising in Brazil to her ethical sourcing practices, underscores her commitment to creating not just jewelry, but purposeful artifacts that inspire and empower.  Fostering community and embracing diversity, Renata envisions more than just a brand—it’s a movement toward self-discovery and collective growth. Join us as we delve into Renata Cambaúva’s world of beauty, valor, and integrity, where jewelry becomes a conduit for personal transformation and human connection. Renata's fine jewelry pieces tells a story of connection, spiritual awakening, transformation and ultimately self-acceptance, where the designer asks the wearer - “You are a human, a parent, a friend, a partner, a multitude of avatars, so why should your jewelry be only one thing?” Petite Elo Necklace Amethyst and Birthstone CASE Awards 1st place Third Eye + Heart Chakra Unity Ring Portal Ring in Amethyst Ascension Garnet Rhombus Ring Petite Elo Necklace African Duotone Tourmaline Finalist Retailer Choice awards INSTORE MAG @renata.cambauva

Jessica and I started talking about four years ago… about knots! I had been following her account (her rings completely knocked my socks off), and one day, she shared an image in her Stories of tangled chains. I absolutely love undoing knots—yes, I know, a bit weird! That moment sparked our connection. :) Since then, I’ve shared many of her stunning rings, and we’ve stayed in touch, exchanging thoughts on jewelry, life, and the challenges of navigating an often unfair world. I deeply admire Jessica’s work—her extensive studies, her relentless pursuit of beauty, and her unwavering dedication to her craft. But beyond that, it’s her powerful and determined attitude that truly sets her apart. To me, that’s what defines a successful and noteworthy artist. It’s not easy, but it is  completely possible—and Jessica is living proof of that! JESSICA PASS Since launching my business in 2018, I have become known for my bold statement pieces inspired by the natural world. My work draws on the Victorian era and its many fascinations. The Victorians had a penchant for intricate trinkets and jewelry with hidden meaning. They collected insect specimens and other natural treasures, displaying them in Curios Cabinets—ornate showcases of the rare and unusual. This avocation extended to jewelry, particularly after Napoleon’s conquest of Egypt in 1798, which sparked the Egyptian Revival. The trend saw an influx of scarab-set jewels, intricate Egyptian motifs, and the use of richly colored yellow gold. A renewed fascination followed the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in the 1920s. Echoes of these influences can be seen throughout my collections - articulated pieces, scarab rings, and the striking contrast of rich gold against deep blue sapphires. The concept of Curios Cabinets remains central to my work, most recently reflected in my ‘Creatures of the Deep’ collection, which draws on the fascination with rare shells and coral specimens seen in early Curios Cabinets. Even the way I photograph my pieces is inspired by these historical displays. Over the years, I have refined my techniques and expanded my collections. My journey into jewelry making was driven by a deep love for hands-on craftsmanship rather than commercial ambitions. As a result, I have focused on private commissions and limited-edition designs rather than mass production. I currently work from my quiet studio in Fulham, accompanied by my dog Otto, where I can fully immerse myself in the creative process. Looking ahead, I aim to release a new collection each year while continuing to take on bespoke commissions. Commissioned work gives me the privilege of working with exquisite, high-end materials, which I deeply appreciate. In working with solid gold, I know I’m creating heirlooms that can be passed down for generations, often re working a client’s inherited stones so the sentimentality can live on. My recent trip to Jordan, and the breathtaking rock formations of Wadi Rum, left a lasting impression on me - I suspect these landscapes will influence my upcoming designs. What excites me most is large-scale, sculptural jewelry with a strong narrative. I love designing with a character in mind, bringing stories to life through form and texture. One of my future aspirations is to collaborate with the film industry in costume design. Cinematic projects allow for unrestrained creativity and dramatic, boundary-pushing designs. @erykahbadu wearing jessica pass jewelry photo by @sophographylondon for @i_d link to full article: HERE ON ID MAGAZINE

I first came across Monika’s work on Instagram back in 2020 when I had just launched my page. At the time, I had no more than 100 followers, but I shared one of her rings—and, to my surprise, she immediately reached out to thank me and started following my page. As my page grew, so did my admiration for Monika’s work. Over the years, we’ve stayed in touch, exchanging ideas and supporting each other. She has shared many of her stunning pieces with me, and because I love her style and vision, I’ve been more than happy to share them with others. It’s rare to maintain an online connection for five years, but our relationship has lasted thanks to mutual respect and a shared passion for jewelry. Recently, I nominated Monika’s work for the DISCOVER program at NYC Jewelry Week because her creations deserve to be seen. Beyond their unique beauty, her jewellery reflects a deeper story—one of dedication, craftsmanship, and an endless pursuit of innovation. Monika is a true one-woman powerhouse, and I can’t wait to see where her journey takes her next. MONIKA SEITTER I learned jewelry making from scratch, first training as a goldsmith before completing a master’s degree in product design. From the beginning, I have had a strong drive to bring my own ideas to life. This passion led me to start my own business while still studying, dedicating time to researching and experimenting with ways to bring my collection to reality. My goal has always been to introduce color into jewelry in a way that goes beyond traditional colored stones. I have explored and tested countless materials—an exciting yet challenging process—since only a select few meet the standards required for jewelry collections in terms of durability, skin compatibility, functionality, aesthetics, and ergonomics. Jewelry is a beautiful fusion of craftsmanship, design, originality, and carefully chosen materials. I find it fascinating how so many essential design principles can be encapsulated in a small piece, like a ring—my personal favorite. One of the biggest challenges today is finding the right marketplace. Over the past decade, many exceptional jewelry shops have disappeared, and there aren’t enough new ones that truly appreciate unique, handcrafted pieces. As a result, I have chosen to focus more on one-of-a-kind jewelry. Producing mass-market jewelry at consistent quality and pricing is becoming increasingly difficult, especially with the ever-rising cost of materials. For these reasons, my future jewelry collections will consist more and more of exclusive, individually crafted pieces made from carefully selected materials. Each piece will be unique—just like the people who wear them.

Victor reached out to me on Instagram a while back to share his work, and I was immediately captivated by his style. We started chatting —first in English—but after noticing his last name, I asked where he was from. It was no surprise to learn he’s also from Latin America, specifically Colombia! From there, our conversation naturally shifted to Spanish, and everything just flowed. I knew I had to share his story—an artist who feels deeply and channels his emotions through his work, inspired by the Portuguese literary classics he discovered after moving to Portugal. Victor's passion for drawing is at the heart of his creative process, bringing his pieces to life. He also collaborates with another talented Colombian artist, designer Carolina Salazar —be sure to check out her Instagram for stunning textile prints and patterns! VICTOR TOMIC I come from Colombia and I have been in the jewelry world for many years. Currently I am living in Portugal, where I am working towards reopening my own space in Colares (a whimsical villa near Lisbon, where the sea and the mountains come together – the perfect setting for an artist). Yet, beyond craftsmanship, my work is about communication. It is a language of emotions, thoughts, and reflections on society—an intimate expression of what words often fail to capture. Rather than writing, I have learned to shape my ideas in silver and gold, allowing metal to speak where language falls short. One might think writing would be easier, but I believe meaning is often best understood through beauty—through form, texture, and symbolism—rather than through endless words. Jewelry, for me, is more than adornment. It is a dialogue, a simple yet profound conversation about life, about us. I have also immersed myself in the works of Luís de Camões, the father of the Portuguese language. Before truly knowing his work, I instinctively chose three of his poems. Now, I see them as three diamonds. As I read further, I realized that Camões’ life was a relentless pursuit—intense, passionate, yet without a clear destination. That is why the ring I designed takes the shape of a star, a sun. It represents the unattainable, that distant light we all look up to with both madness and hope. But by wearing it, we remind ourselves that this light must also be found within. Camões: passion to the core. A longing for peace within. A living poem—where his story ends, and ours begins. Not perfect, just human. Not a brand, just myself. Not mass-produced, just one at a time. No customers, only friends. Not fear, only trust. Not luxury, just life.No illusions, only truth. No envy, only love. No secrets—everything to share! @victorstomic

Sometimes, life presents unexpected opportunities—and I, for one, always try to stay open to these little ‘unicorns’ when they appear. One such moment arrived simply because I dared to ask. Yes, dared —because you never really know how things will turn out. But I'm an incorrigible optimist, so I went for it: I invited renowned jewelry artist Philip Sajet to be featured in my Artist’s Spotlight. As it turns out, boldness and positivity do pay off. Not only did he accept, but he also generously shared an extraordinary collection of his thoughts and works with me—archives reaching back to 1981. I was deeply honored to read through this treasure trove and to select the pieces that resonated with me most. We connected over FaceTime, exchanged stories, and I must say—Philip is an absolute delight. He’s witty, warm, and incredibly generous. I've admired his work for years, never imagining that one day we’d be chatting like old friends, let alone collaborating. And speaking of collaboration—the best part is still under wraps. While I can’t reveal the details just yet, I’m thrilled to share that Philip has invited me to join him on a very special project. It’s an incredible honor, and I can’t wait to tell you more when the time comes. In the meantime, I invite you to enjoy some of Philip’s reflections—his words of wisdom, aphorisms, and heartfelt advice for young creators. PHILIP SAJET My name is Philip Sajet, and I create Contemporary Classical Jewelry—one-of-a-kind pieces that bridge time and culture."Contemporary" because my work responds to the present moment we live in."Classical" because I strive to craft jewelry with a timeless, borderless quality—pieces that can be appreciated across cultures and eras. That said, I also allow myself the freedom to stray from this path, playfully and with pleasure. My aim is to speak in a visual, international language—open and unopinionated—and I hope that, in some way, I succeed. These are wearable works: rings, necklaces, and earrings—pieces designed to touch the body, to connect with the skin. I have been making jewelry since 1978. After graduating from the Gerrit Rietveld Academie in Amsterdam in 1981, and navigating four years of creative confusion, I held my first solo exhibition at Galerie Louise Smit in Amsterdam. Since then, my journey has continued—first within the Netherlands, and later on, internationally—through continuous work and exhibitions. As for the future, I will be giving a workshop in Art Up Bucharest Jewelry school from May 5th  until the 9th . HOLY SACRILEGE AND OTHER APHORISMS/THOUGHTS “Religious ceremonies are actions which one undertakes without the prospect of financial gain. It's the act in itself, which is the gain. This has a similarity to art, it is an enterprise which serves no gain. it should survive on donations, by those humble enough to realize that this is an action they can't undertake, by lack of time, energy or conviction. It is the responsibility of a class of people who have dedicated themselves to show the significance of life.”     “Jewelry. Consider it as a painting; don't consider it as a sculpture.”     “The power of the artist is that they control the process of creation: at first there was nothing, and then there was something".   “Advice to the young creator: You are insecure about your art. Our bases are all the same, if we strip ourselves of all the nature and nurture, back to the absolute basic of our being. If you can feel that, know that, then all you have to do is ask; "Why am I here? What is the purpose of this machinery that has been given to me?" So, the whole question is not to learn something but to unlearn a LOT. Then when you are back from where you came, you know you have to do something. If you can't, you look for guidance, until you don't need the guidance anymore, and you can become a guide yourself. Simple logic, agree? What is our task? Again simple, TO GROW, TO EXPAND. To become bigger, larger, the Universe has to expand. WHY? How the fuck do I know? All I know is that God, Gaia, Gabriel, Buddha, Allah, Adonai, Universal intelligence wants it. We each choose our medium, be joyful in material. Jewelry. Or be healthy, and help other people be healthy. What is your Key? You see? That is soul searching and that is fun. How would that translate into a personal, universal jewel? Why do I use broken red glass? Apparently, something broke somewhere. Why red? My mother’s favorite color. And blood and life. And the fire of life. Why rust? Rust in psychology stands for the deteriorating personality. Something I am apparently afraid of. Those are the ingredients. Now put them together and you have a nice dish. How to get to that key? Before you go to sleep, tell your brain to show it to you. Write down EVERY idea. The more "stupid" the better, that is a process you can do alone. (takes many years.) Or someone helps you, goes much faster. You are a child of God. Nothing you do with the intention of honesty and sincerity can be wrong. Impossible, once you have this trust, it's ok. There can be no insecurity anymore.”     “To give the material (gold specifically) the guarantee that it has found its final form. Rest and make changes no more.”     “Years from today in another culture maybe, I imagine a work of mine being found by a stranger.”   “To show the presence of light itself. Due to the absence of the Material. The residual space is available.”     “Actually, I don't have lot to say. I say the same thing all the time, but I do so in different languages (styles) then it looks as if I have a lot to say.”   @philipsajet