My Story

Charlotte Smith is an artisan jeweller whose work intertwines traditional craft techniques with the nuances of modern life. Working from a centuries-old nail maker’s cottage on the edge of a woodland in the Black Country, Charlotte draws inspiration from her surroundings and her experiences as a mother. Her jewellery collections are celebrated for their intricate details and subtle, playful movements, showcasing her commitment to slow, deliberate craftsmanship.

Charlotte’s journey into jewellery-making began in her teens. Just before starting her A-level art course, she visited an art supplies shop intending to buy paints but instead left with jewellery-making supplies. From that moment, she couldn’t stop creating jewellery. This passion led her to pursue a degree in Metalwork and Jewellery at Sheffield Hallam University, where she honed her skills and developed a deep appreciation for traditional craftsmanship.

After completing her degree, Charlotte’s love for enamel was sparked when her husband gifted her a kiln and some enamelling books. This gift ignited a new phase in her creative journey, leading her to develop a signature style that involves handcrafting and enamelling delicate ‘sequins’ which are sewn into her pieces. This meticulous process, combining metalwork with a craft traditionally associated with women, has become a hallmark of her work.

Her jewellery was inspired by a seemingly mundane moment while doing laundry—seeing the sequins on her daughter’s T-shirt. While this moment sparked the initial idea, Charlotte believes the final floral look of the pieces was subconsciously inspired by her love of gardening, particularly her admiration for dahlias. The collection is a testament to her ability to blend personal experiences with her craft, resulting in pieces that are both meaningful and visually captivating.

In addition to her creative work, Charlotte holds a PGCE and has spent 14 years teaching Design and Technology in secondary schools. Now teaching part-time, she dedicates more time to her jewellery business.

Her dedication to her craft has earned her recognition within the jewellery industry, including two silver awards at the 2023 Goldsmiths’ Craft and Design Awards for enamelling craftsmanship and innovative design. She was also awarded the Phil Barnes bursary, enabling her to further refine her skills with a master craftsman in engraving and enamelling.

In every piece she creates, Charlotte Smith honours the past while infusing it with her unique perspective as a modern female maker. Her jewellery is not just an accessory; it is a celebration of time, heritage, and the enduring art of handcrafting.