The Soldersmith

Jewellery

2 May

Written By Sophisticated Cloud

The Soldersmith - SOPHISTICATED CLOUD Global Lead Best Squarespace Web Designer expert in Basingstoke, Winchester, London, Hampshire, UK. Bespoke websites for celebrities, personalities, elite and influencers - UK artisans

The Soldersmith website

Tell us a bit about yourself

Hi, I’m Alf.

I worked as a PA for 32 years, making jewellery in my spare time for about 14 years. In 2021 I decided to leave my full-time job and pursue my passion in Silversmithing and am absolutely loving it!
I’m inspired by the metal itself - primarily sterling silver, so I literally play with the shapes, add a bit of fire and solder and see where the designs go. There are also influences from Brutalist architecture and forms/shapes I see when I’m out and about, but mostly it’s about what the metal can do. I also embrace mistakes and use them in my work as I find that they push some designs into very interesting new ideas!

What type of craft do you specialise in?

Jewellery.

Describe your creations:

Everything is handmade from 100% recycled sterling silver (largely recycled offcuts that I melt down and re-use), I primarily create ‘conversation’ pieces, i.e. jewellery that starts a conversation. It’s all designed to be noticed, whether it’s an oversized ring or a pendant cast in spaghetti! Every piece is a one-off, so you won’t find anything identical anywhere else.

What would you like to share with our audience?

I don't believe that jewellery is just an accessory, I believe it's always a statement.
And the statement my jewellery makes is a bit bold, a little imperfect, but unapologetically original.
I like to think it’s where craftsmanship meets character, with handmade pieces that refuse to blend in and that speak to the person who chooses it.
Every piece I make is a one-off, designed to be worn hard, loved endlessly and talked about often.
I'm not selling sparkle for sparkle's sake. I'm creating conversation pieces with soul, humour and a bit of grit. The kind of jewellery that feels like it's got a story to tell...because it does.
I'm hopefully carving out a space for people who like their jewellery with a little edge and a lot of attitude.
I’m an introvert myself, but I express myself through big, bold, interesting jewellery and I hope to inspire others to do the same.