Silversmith vicar develops her own hallmark
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co-ordinator at The Birmingham Assay Office.
A female vicar who also has a keen interest in jewellery making has worked with The Birmingham Assay Office to develop her own hallmark.
Reverend Mary Gilbert, vicar at St Paul’s Church in the Jewellery Quarter, has been making jewellery for the past ten years but earlier this year enrolled on a silversmithing course at the Midlands Art Centre (mac) in Birmingham.
Mac provides hobbyists and aspiring designer markers with an opportunity to develop or extend their jewellery making skills, while exploring processes such as modern casting techniques.
The Birmingham Assay Office on Newhall Street – the largest assay office in the world – tests and hallmarks precious metal items as required by the Hallmarking Act.
Mary’s hallmark – MRG – is made up of her initials and will be engraved on all of her silver jewellery items.
Mary, who has been based at St Paul’s Church for the past six years, said: “I’ve always liked shiny things and, after starting with bead jewellery, I wanted to test myself with a new skill – so I tried silversmithing. It’s very exciting to have my own hallmark to demonstrate the quality of my products.
“I absolutely love being in the Jewellery Quarter among the creative industries, which is the perfect place for me to get inspiration for my designs.
“There’s such a wide range of people here who are very supportive of the church and the local community. This was demonstrated at last month’s Macmillan coffee morning where businesses in the Quarter raised more than £7,500. There’s certainly never a dull moment!”
Mike Mounfield, executive director for the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust (JQDT), said: “St Paul’s Church is very active in the community, hosting a monthly film night and craft club, due to start in November, alongside regular church services and events.
“Mary is also one of many much loved characters in the Jewellery Quarter community and we are delighted she has her own hallmark.”
Mary’s silver earrings and bracelets range from £15- £50 and commissions are welcome.
“I’m constantly learning new techniques and looking at ways to develop my jewellery. Next I’d like to try making more intricate pieces,” added Mary.
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