A Brief History of How the Studio Came to Be

Hello, I'm Alice, and I'd love to share a little of the story behind how I came to be making and teaching jewellery.

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In my early twenties, I began attending a jewellery-making day class at Birmingham's renowned Jewellery School. I loved it so much that I packed up my life in Gloucestershire and moved to Birmingham to enrol on an HND in Jewellery and Silversmithing.

During my studies I won a work experience placement with one of the country's leading jewellery manufacturers in their design department. It was an incredible opportunity and taught me a great deal, but it also confirmed something important: I didn't want to design jewellery without being involved in the making process. For me, the true magic lies in bringing a piece to life with my own hands.

Over the next decade, I honed my craft working at the bench in fine jewellery workshops and a sculpture foundry. These experiences gave me a strong foundation in working with precious metals, gemstones, and both traditional and modern techniques.

In 2021, after having children, I decided to take the leap and start my own jewellery business. After everything we'd all experienced during lockdown, launching a new venture somehow felt less daunting than it might have before.

I began by running ring-making classes in our local village and gradually built a reputation for remodelling and repairing treasured jewellery. There is something truly special about breathing new life into a piece that holds deep sentimental value. Equally rewarding is taking a client's ideas, memories, and aspirations and transforming them into a piece of jewellery that can be cherished for generations.

Teaching jewellery-making is another part of my work that I love. Watching people discover the satisfaction and calm that comes from working with their hands is incredibly rewarding. Jewellery making has a wonderfully meditative quality, allowing you to become completely absorbed in the creative process.

Today, Alice Huggins Studio is based on the beautiful Bathurst Estate, just outside the historic market town of Cirencester. Whether you're looking to create your own rings in one of my workshops, remodel a treasured heirloom, or commission a bespoke piece of jewellery, you'll receive a warm welcome.

Visits to the studio are by appointment, ensuring every client receives dedicated time and attention. However, I'm always happy to chat, so please don't hesitate to get in touch if you'd like to arrange a visit, even at short notice.