About Me

My name is Hilary Gleaves.  I am a jewellery designer and maker based in the West Midlands in the City of Birmingham UK which has a famous, historic Jewellery Quarter and School of Jewellery.  I studied Silver and Jewellery and Industrial Design at Birmingham UCE and I have also been involved in education at different levels, where I hope I helped to inspire and empower others on their creative journey.

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I grew up in the Wye Valley and The Forest of Dean, surrounded by nature and later moved to Birmingham where I found myself in the built environment.  I probably shouldn't be surprised to find that my sources of inspiration include natural and man-made forms, particulary sculptural form, pattern and texture.  ​

 

On my own creative journey I like to explore scale and prefer to make bold jewellery with presence that makes a statement and expresses the individuality of the wearer.

 

At the bench I use traditional making techniques and hand processes to carefully make jewellery that will stand the test of time. I enjoy using the 'lost wax process'' which I first discovered at college, years ago. I like the freedom it provides and the sculptural effects that are possible. I shape the wax by hand and have th waxes cast in the Jewellery Quarter here in Birmingham U.K.  I often include "lost wax" cast elements in my work. 

 

​I use mainly silver, sometimes gold, precious and semi-precious stones and occasionally natural and found materials. 

 

To minimise my environmental impact I use recycled silver and gold and simple but elegant, recyclable packaging, made from recycled materials.

 

​I make a range of jewellery items including one-of-a-kind pieces and small, curated, themed collections.

 

The statement skulls collection was originally inspired by a commission in 2016 to design and make a pair of skull cufflinks. The skull is an enduring symbol used historically with many meanings and not influenced by fashion, which appeals to me. I really liked the sculptural qualities of the skulls and enjoyed the making processes involved. I decided to experiment with skulls of varying sizes and incorporate them into my jewellery in different ways.

 

​All of my jewellery is made with care and attention to detail and because it is handcrafted each piece is unique and individual, with it's own characteristics. 

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Precious metals are hallmarked by the Assay Office as required, here in Birmingham U.K.

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