Kate's Gembead Story
A Love for Jewellery
I have had a passion for beads and making jewellery for as long as I can remember. Aged 8, I was sitting on the school steps with friends swapping beads and the contents of my mother’s jewellery box.
My first sale happened ten years later when a London boutique purchased a board of New Wave inspired earrings.
Since then, my style and technical abilities have moved on with a focus on using gemstone beads and knotted stringing techniques.
Attention to Detail
Each piece is made with care and a love for the natural beauty and metaphysical energy of stones. I use tonal threads to highlight the colours and textures, of gemstones which include amethyst, morganite, aquamarine, rose quartz, opal, obsidian, chalcedony, and more.
I see jewellery as an ancient form of artistic self-expression. Trade bead history fascinates me and I reflect upon those powerful little nuggets of beauty travelling the world, being touched and loved by so many generations of people.
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Custom Designs
Having a passion for antique, vintage and preloved jewellery means that I rarely pass up an opportunity to restring, repair or remodel. Vintage jewellery is often well crafted, with unique designs rather than mass produced. Choosing a second-hand piece is good value and a great way to embrace sustainability.
I encourage customers to be involved in decision making when refurbishing or redesigning, which genuinely brings these items back to life. This means that customers can wear previously broken bead strands or “Granny’s” pearls with flair, and confidence in the strength of a restrung piece.
The only time I use plastic or resin formed beads is for up - cycling or repair projects.