Birmingham City University (BCU) graduate Ruby Lanigan has landed a prestigious Bright New Gems award thanks to her bold and architecturally inspired jewellery designs.
A recent graduate of BCU’s renowned Jewellery and Silversmithing programme, the 25-year-old from Ludlow impressed judges of the ‘Show Off - Statement Pieces’ category with a series of collections rooted in architectural influence. “Baroque architecture has always captivated me,” said Ruby.
“Since I began designing jewellery, I’ve been drawn to its intricacy and grandeur. It’s just so ornate and attention-grabbing. I love translating that kind of visual drama into wearable art.”
As part of her award, Ruby will showcase her designs at the UK Jewellery Festival in London this March, where all winners will have the opportunity to exhibit their work. “When I found out I had won, I was in complete shock,” said Ruby.
“A current colleague of mine, Daisy Grice, won back in 2019 and really encouraged me to apply, but I never expected I’d actually be selected.” Ruby credits BCU for a large chunk of her success, adding that studying there has been a transformative experience.
“Before university, I was self-taught, just learning from YouTube, but BCU gave me access to professional teaching, incredible opportunities, and real industry exposure,” she said.
“This year alone, we showcased our work in Paris, which was a huge milestone for me.”
Ruby also credits the broader jewellery design community for keeping her inspired.
“Designers like Tessa Metcalfe really stand out to me. She creates such cool bespoke work.
“I’ve also met amazing creatives running their own brands. It's inspiring to be part of that world.”
Looking ahead, Ruby is excited to build on her recent success. “The past few months have been a whirlwind, from finishing university, to showing in Paris, landing my job, and now this award,” she said.
Ruby has also secured a position as a Junior CAD Designer at Weston Beamor, a leading UK jewellery manufacturer, while continuing to develop her own designs. “I’m just trying to take it all in and keep creating,” she said.
“My ultimate goal is to launch my own collections and put more of my personal work out into the world.” From art, accounting and architecture to midwifery, media and mechanical engineering, BCU transforms the lives of its students by offering a wide range of contemporary and flexible courses at undergraduate and postgraduate level.
Home to the award-winning School of Jewellery, the internationally renowned Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, and the innovative centre STEAMhouse, BCU has a history stretching back to 1843. It is also focused on the future, with its new strategy – ‘Rooted in Birmingham, Reaching Beyond’ - committed to the regeneration of the city and to enhancing communities across the West Midlands.
