Yorkshire's best jewellers to be take part in showcase at Ampleforth Abbey

Next month, jewellery lovers across Yorkshire will have access to some of the country’s finest makers at a prestigious fair.

Acquire at Ampleforth is set to bring a curated selection of jewellers to the grounds of Ampleforth Abbey, in North Yorkshire, from September 18 to 20.

Behind the event is fine artist jeweller Joanne Gowan, who is based in Pateley Bridge and has been working in the craft for 40 years.

It’s the first time that the jewellery fair has taken place at Ampleforth, having been previously based on two occasions in Harrogate.

Acquire has also partnered with Susan Rumfitt, the highly regarded jewellery specialist from the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow, to organise a programme of ticketed talks.

These expert-led sessions will offer enthusiasts and collectors a deeper look into wider jewellery related topics including history, artistry and allure of fine jewellery.

Speakers are set to include silversmith Brett Payne and Antiques Roadshow expert Steven Moore.

Ms Gowan said: “I’ve chosen mostly Yorkshire makers and it’s going to be a very northern based show.

“There is also a stand given to a group of graduates who have just finished their jewellery making courses, which will give them a taste of professional life.

“Then there are people like myself, who have been making and selling for decades, and everything in between.”

Explaining the difference between the work of bespoke jewellers and commercial jewellery, Ms Gowan said: “All the pieces are unique, and if they are made in batches, it’s very, very small.

“Whereas with commercial, they will make a master and then there might be 100, 1000 or even 10,000 made.

“All the makers at Acquire do commissions, so you’re able to make a bespoke connection with their style.

“If people have only ever bought jewellery from a retail shop, they will be really surprised how good the value is when you actually have something handmade.”

Ms Gowan’s work is heavily inspired by her love of nature and literature. “I trained at Central School of Art, and one of the reasons I’m here in Yorkshire is because I passionately read all the Bronte books from the age of ten.

“I love creating meaningful pieces that have a story to tell. They are my little pieces of art that people can wear. The joy for me is that after 40 years, I can still make the things I want to.

“I’m influenced by Art Nouveau jewellery which is also pictorial based, and I quite often do commissions based on someone’s favourite book or story.

“I love what I do every day.”

To book expert talks through Acquire, visit www.acquire.uk.com