Jane Gowans is a Scottish-based contemporary jeweller.
When seeing her jewelry, there is no doubt she likes to experiment. And which gives fabulous results.
Jane’s jewelry are all about the details. Take a closer look and you’ll see what I mean. Plus, her pieces are quite unique.
The pieces are made by using stones, sterling silver, 18kt gold vermeil and silver finishes.
You just gotta love her pieces.
MoJ has been lucky to do a Q&A with Jane:
MoJ: What did you study?
Jane: Jewellery & Metal Design at Duncan of Jordanstone.
Have you always wanted to become a jewelry designer?
Jane: No, I always knew I wanted to be creative but it wasn’t until I went to University that I realised I wanted to work in a 3 dimensional way and jewellery seemed to be the most natural choice.
As a jeweler, do you wear jewelry much yourself?
Jane: My favourite piece at the moment is the JG Marina Knuckle Ring, it is great for layering up for the statement look or worn alone for everyday elegance.
What inspires you?
Jane: I take my inspiration form the everyday and push myself to make the ordinary into the extraordinary. Previous inspirations have included the humble matchstick, the Scottish landscape and most recently finding an old photograph of my grandfather in naval uniform.
Do you listen to music or anything while working on your creations?
Jane: I love BBC 6 Music and listen to it nearly everyday in the studio.
Until now, which piece have you enjoyed the most to work on?
Jane: The first luxury offering from JG is an 18ct Gold Matilda ring with 40 grain set diamonds. I felt like a magpie whilst creating it which was a lot of fun.
What is your favorite piece/creation?
Jane: I really like the Fathom ring- it is a bit of a showstopper.
What is your favorite material to use?
Jane: I work mainly in Silver.
Do you follow the works of other designers?
Jane: Yes there are so many talented designers in the industry: Clarice Price Thomas, Imogen Belfield, Hannah Martin, Yunus and Eliza and Smith/Grey are just a few.
What kind of public are your customers?
Jane: Chic, style concious woman who are looking for something extra special.
What is the most interesting part of your job?
Jane: Each day is different and that is what I love most.
You have been shortlisted this year for New Designer of the Year at the UK Jewellery Awards. How did it make you feel like?
Jane: It is a huge compliment and it really cements my place within the industry as one to watch.
Tell us more about the Captain collection.
Jane: The nautical-inspired collection of ten key pieces is available in polished 18kt gold vermeil and solid sterling silver.
Using the highest quality materials, each piece is handcrafted exclusively in Britain, hallmarked in Scotland and hand finished by me.
The collection has been carefully considered to create a wearable and striking range. Rooted in my fascination for sequences and repetition, small sophisticated pieces can be stacked and worn in multiples to build bold statement looks, or left solo for everyday elegance.
The discovery of an old photo of my Grandfather in naval uniform sparked my inspiration for the collection. Delving into maritime history and culture, I have united my craft with that of my Grandfather, translating the practical tools of the sea into decorative jewellery designs. Ropes, knots and compass points have been transformed into burnished rings, studs, necklaces and bracelets.
The Captain collection tells its own distinct story, with timeless pieces that can be cherished for seasons to come.