Kickstart 2026 is a free, five-day challenge designed to help jewellery makers and jewellery business owners begin the year with clarity, confidence and calm.

In this week's episode of the Jewellers Academy podcast, Jess explains how the challenge offers a gentle, structured way to reflect on your vision, set meaningful goals for your jewellery business, create simple action plans, build supportive routines and consider how money will flow into your business - without the overwhelm or pressure.

How does Kickstart work?

The FREE five day challenge features a video from Jess each day for 5 days, starting on Monday 5th January 2026. It also includes notes and a Canva template to create your own plan through the week.

Day 1 – Get Clear on Your Vision

A short exercise to reconnect with why you do what you do and what you want this year to look like. ✔️ It's time for a clearer sense of direction and motivation.

Day 2 – Choose Your Focus

You'll identify a small number of realistic, meaningful business goals. ✔️ Let's ditch the overwhelm and get clarity on what actually matters.

Day 3 – Create an Action Plan

Turn ideas into steps you can actually follow. ✔️ Leave with a simple plan instead of a head full of 'shoulds'.

Day 4 – Build a Weekly Business Rhythm

Define how you'll consistently work on your business, not just in it. ✔️ Feel more organised and in control of your time.

Day 5 – Focus on Revenue

Shift your attention to activities that help bring money into your business. ✔️ End the week knowing exactly what to prioritise next.

Join Kickstart now https://www.jewellersacademy.com/kickstart

Other programs mentioned in the podcast:

10 Days of Silver Jewellery Making - suitable for complete beginners or those who want to stetch themselves with new project ideas starting on 12th January 2026

Week of Wax five free wax carving tutorials starting on 2nd February 2026

Five Days of Silver Metal Clay free tutorials starting on 23rd February 2026

All of these free challenges are open for enrolment now and will start on the dates show above so register now.

Jewellery Business Academy 2026 - our externally accredited one-year business program featuring monthly themes, group support, starter and growth tracks. This runs from January to December and is open now for enrolment.

This week on the Jewellers Academy podcast, Jess and Anna Campbell explore their annual tradition of choosing a Word of the Year as a gentler alternative to New Year's resolutions. They reflect on the words they chose for 2025 and how the year lived up to them, before sharing their words for 2026 and what they hope for the year ahead. If you're thinking about setting intentions for 2026, they also share some tips to help you choose a word that feels meaningful and supportive. If you'd like to choose your own word of the year, there is some guidance on how to do it on our blog. As well as some alternative ideas mentioned in the podcast, including your theme song for 2026! https://www.jewellersacademy.com/blog/whats-your-word-of-the-year-for-2026

In this episode of the Jewellers Academy Podcast, Jess is joined by Liz Lloyd, founder of Liz Lloyd Jewellery, to talk about her journey into jewellery and what it takes to build a confident, professional jewellery business.

Liz shares how an early love of making jewellery led her back to the bench after a long career in teaching and creative work. During lockdown, she rediscovered jewellery making and found Jewellers Academy which helped her move from experimenting to building a business with intention.

She talks about completing the Diploma in Silver Jewellery, describing it as a key moment in finding her style, building confidence, and developing skills in a structured, apprenticeship-style way. Liz also shares how joining the Jewellery Business Academy gave her the focus and structure she needed to grow sustainably, choosing to work on one area of her business at a time.

Jess and Liz discuss the importance of communication in jewellery business, why investing in professional photography can transform how your work is perceived, and what Liz learned from creating her first full jewellery collection inspired by nature and architecture. They also explore building a website that feels calm and luxurious, pacing yourself creatively, and balancing making with promotion.

This is an inspiring listen for anyone, particularly if you are coming to jewellery making after another career.

If growing your jewellery business is your goal for 2026 then check out the Jewellery Business Academy. A one year comprehensive program designed for jewellers, this externally accredited program is exactly what you need to stay focused an on track.

Plus get one-to-one mentoring on the topic of your choice, accountability through regular small group Zoom meet ups and more.

https://www.jewellersacademy.com/the-jewellery-business-academy

About Liz

Liz Lloyd is a jewellery designer and maker creating handmade sterling silver and 9ct gold pieces from her home studio in the UK. Her work is inspired by the meeting of nature and structure, drawing on clean architectural lines and the sculptural forms of sea waves and rock strata. Using these influences, she creates minimalist jewellery designed to be worn every day as well as for special occasions. Liz works to commission and sells her collections through her website.

Completing the Jewellers Academy Silver Diploma in 2023–2024, alongside two years in the Jewellery Business Academy, was a turning point that gave her the confidence and clarity to design and launch a new 24-piece silver and gold collection.

www.lizlloydjewellery.co.uk @lizlloydjewellery

Thinking about starting a jewellery business in 2026? In this week's episode of the Jewellers Academy podcast, Jess explores the key trends, strategies, and mindset shifts shaping the future of the jewellery industry - from why authenticity is the antidote to AI, to how to market your work without burning out. Jess covers:

• How to build real connection with customers as a maker
• Why Instagram and email lists matter more than a perfect website
• The importance of getting your first sales early
• Sustainability, ethical sourcing, and custom work
• Gender-neutral jewellery and timeless design trends
• Why building a jewellery business is a marathon not a sprint - and how to keep going

Want to know more? Join Jess for a free masterclass diving into this topic in more depth. Register for free here: https://mailchi.mp/e82cff09396b/start

In this episode, Anna Campbell chats with Pinterest and SEO consultant Trona Freeman about how jewellers can use Pinterest as a powerful visual search engine - not just another social platform. Trona breaks down how Pinterest users are intentional, slower scrollers, and often ready to shop, making it an ideal place for jewellery businesses. She shares practical tips on:

• Optimising your profile and boards for search
• Creating keyword-rich, high-performing pins
• Using product shots, lifestyle content, and text pins strategically
• Leveraging Pinterest Trends and Pinterest Predicts
• Avoiding common mistakes like broken links and low-quality images

If you want long-lasting traffic, more visibility, and a platform where your jewellery can truly shine, this episode is packed with simple, actionable steps to get started. Jewellery Business Academy 2026 If growing your jewellery business is your goal for 2026 then check out the Jewellery Business Academy. A one year comprehensive program designed for jewellers, this externally accredited program is exactly what you need to stay focused an on track. Plus get one to one mentoring on the topic of your choice, accountability through regular small group Zoom meet ups and more. https://www.jewellersacademy.com/the-jewellery-business-academy If you'd like to know more, join the live open day on Tuesday 9th December 2025 at 8pm UK time GMT. Here's the link you need to register (and receive the replay via email if you can't join live) https://mailchi.mp/8a09ab0822ce/jba-2026 About Trona Trona Freeman is a Scotland-based Pinterest and SEO consultant who runs her business under the name Aye Lined Digital Marketing. Originally she started out as a beauty and lifestyle blogger, sharing content on fashion, skincare and photography and through that journey she discovered the potential of Pinterest as a powerful driver of traffic. Over time, what began as a hobby and creative outlet evolved into a full-blown service: Trona now helps small businesses , including creatives and makers, to grow online by leveraging Pinterest and smart SEO strategies. Her background as a creator and MA in Art History gives her a unique perspective on how visual artists and artisans (like jewellers) can use visual platforms to reach new audiences. Connect with her: https://services.ayelined.com/ https://www.instagram.com/trona_freeman

In this week's episode of the Jewellers Academy Podcast, Jessica Rose shares all about the brand-new Diploma in Wax Jewellery. This is the fifth online one-year Diploma to be created. Whether you're completely new to wax or an experienced jeweller ready to dive into wax jewellery, this episode gives you a full behind-the-scenes look at what to expect from this year-long programme.

Jess walks you through how the Diploma works, from the flexible weekly time commitment to the unique 'wax to metal' process where you'll carve your designs, send them to a caster, and then learn the essential skills to clean up and finish your final pieces. Unlike other Diplomas, students only submit their work once at the end of the course, giving plenty of time to refine each project. You'll also hear how termly check-ins support accountability and how every student is paired with a professional wax jeweller as a mentor for the year.

Jess explores the wide variety of projects and techniques you'll learn: from foundational wax carving and building shaped signet rings, to stone setting in wax, cast-in-place techniques, soft wax sculpting, the Mitsuro Hikime method, build-up techniques with a heat pen, and even optional sand casting for those with the tools at home. Jess also introduces you to the expert tutor team, including master stone setters and specialist wax jewellers who will guide you through each step.

You'll get a clear picture of the year, from September through to July, and discover how the final project helps you create a cohesive mini collection to kickstart or elevate your jewellery business.

If you'd like to see examples of the projects, ask questions, or explore whether this diploma is right for you, join us for the live Open Day on Wed 3rd Dec 2025 at 8pm UK time GMT. Register now to get the Zoom link and the replay https://mailchi.mp/d3d9f888b402/wax-diploma-open-day-dec-25

Learn more about the Diploma in Wax Jewellery https://www.jewellersacademy.com/diploma-in-wax-jewellery

Jessica Rose chats with Jo Hunt, founder of Rockpool Jewellery, about her creative journey and her love for working with wax. Jo shares all about her brand-new course, Rings, Pendants and Charms in Wax: The Build-Up Technique - the first course at Jewellers Academy dedicated entirely to this organic, textured method. It's currently on pre-sale for a limited time at 50% off.

Jo shares how jewellery making became an essential creative outlet during her struggles with anxiety and OCD, and how wax offered the perfect low-pressure medium to explore ideas freely. Jess and Jo talk about the differences between traditional wax carving and the build-up technique, why it produces such unique results, and what tools and materials beginners need to get started. You'll also hear insights from behind the scenes of Rockpool Jewellery, from slow, sustainable business growth to offering customers pieces in wax so they can choose their metal before casting. Jo is encouraging for anyone new to wax to give it a try! Enrol on the brand new online course Rings, Pendants & Charms in Wax: The Build-Up Technique with 50% off for a limited time. Learn more: https://www.jewellersacademy.com/rings-pendants-charms-in-wax-the-buildup-technique And if you want to really delve into working with wax and stone setting, check out our new for 2026 1 year online Diploma in Wax Jewellery https://www.jewellersacademy.com/diploma-in-wax-jewellery About Jo Hunt Jo is based in North East England where she creates her collections and one-of-a-kind pieces from her home studio. Jo's designs are inspired by the north east coastline and coastal textures and she sells her designs via her website and in local independent stores and galleries. Jo works mainly with the lost wax casting technique, using mainly the build up technique which she teaches in this course www.rockpooljewellery.com

In this week's episode of the Jewellers Academy Podcast, award winning entrepreneur Jessica Rose dives into what it really takes to grow a jewellery business once you're three or more years in. If you've moved past the experimentation phase and are ready to build something profitable, sustainable, and strategically focused, this episode is your roadmap.

Jessica explores the core pillars that help jewellers transition from busy and functioning to thriving and scalable, sharing her own experiences - wins, mistakes, and moments of truth along the way.

Covering:

1. Getting Focused (Stripping It Back)

After years of trying all the things - craft fairs, website sales, wholesale, teaching - the next stage is all about narrowing it down to what works for you and what you enjoy. Jessica explains why spreading yourself thin keeps you small, and how choosing one or two key areas to pour your energy into can create dramatic results. Expect a powerful analogy from GCSEs to degree-level specialism to help you rethink your business focus.

2. Profitability & Revenue-Generating Activities

To grow you need to be making a profit. Jess looks at the difference between the work you love and the work that actually brings money in and why you need to know which is which. From launches and fairs to analysing your product range, you'll learn how to spot what's truly profitable and what needs adjusting or subsidising.

3. Taking Yourself Seriously (Investing in You & Your Business)

If you want a serious business, you have to treat it like one. Discover how regular investment - in training, professional photography, and the development of your own skills - creates momentum, confidence, and higher-level results.

4. Selling Higher-Ticket Jewellery

If you want higher revenue without burning out, you need higher-value sales. Jess talks through the psychology of desire-based buying, how to showcase your high-ticket pieces effectively, and why your customers should never have to imagine what your work could look like in gold.

5. Delegating (Even Before You Think You're Ready)

Delegation is essential for growth, even if it feels uncomfortable. Jessica shares her personal story of hiring help long before she felt she could "afford" it—and how that single decision rapidly transformed her income, time, and creative freedom.

JOIN THE LIVE masterclass THIS WEEK

If you're ready to step into the next chapter of your jewellery business with clarity, confidence, and a solid strategy for 2026, join Jess for a free live masterclass, where she'll go even deeper into these topics and help you map out your personalised plan for growth.

When? Wednesday 19th November 2025 at 8pm UK time

https://mailchi.mp/fb5ef02badc2/roadmap

(Do register even if you can't join in live so you receive the replay via email)

Diplomas are open for enrolment - and we have a brand new Diploma. In this special episode of the Jewellers Academy podcast, Jessica Rose and Anna Campbell share some exciting news - enrolment is now open for all five Jewellers Academy Diplomas starting in September 2026, including the launch of a brand new course: the Diploma in Wax Jewellery! Join Jessica and Anna as they reveal everything you need to know about this long-awaited programme - from its focus on creating commercially viable jewellery collections to its accessible, beginner-friendly structure and expert tutors like Scott McIntyre, Jane Taylor and Joanne Hunt. Learn how working in wax offers an affordable and creative path into jewellery design, how the course is structured (including wax and metal assessments), and why this Diploma is the perfect next step for existing students or newcomers alike. They also chat through updates across all the Diploma courses, key enrolment dates (including the March 13th deadline for the 18-month payment plan), and the latest on tools and materials kits, which tend to sell out fast! Plus, find out about free taster sessions (coming in early 2026) like "A Week of Wax", designed to help you explore this exciting new medium before you commit. The Diploma courses are perfect for you if you want to fit your jewellery education around your life and work commitments. We have a Diploma course for everyone, from beginners to advanced level jewellers so if you've been dreaming about starting or growing your jewellery business have a listen. Year 1: Diploma in Silver Jewellery https://www.jewellersacademy.com/diploma Year 2: Diploma in Fine Jewellery https://www.jewellersacademy.com/diploma-in-fine-jewellery Year 3: Advanced Jewellery Diploma https://www.jewellersacademy.com/advanced-jewellery-diploma Diploma in Wax Jewellery - New for 2026 https://www.jewellersacademy.com/diploma-in-wax-jewellery Diploma in Silver Metal Clay https://www.jewellersacademy.com/diploma-in-silver-metal-clay

With the rising price of gold and silver, every speck of precious metal counts. In this week's episode of the Jewellers Academy podcast, host Kelly Twigg sits down with Mark Cutler from Mastermelt to explore the fascinating and often overlooked process of reclaiming and refining precious metal scrap for jewellers and metalsmiths. Founded in 1985 in Hatton Garden, London, Mastermelts has grown into a global refining company trusted by both the jewellery trade and industrial sectors. Mark shares expert insights into how jewellers can recover value from every stage of their workshop, from lemel (high-grade metal scraps) to sweeps (low-grade material like polishing waste and dust). Learn why simple workshop habits can make a huge difference in reclaiming precious metal content. Mark offers practical tips for: Maximising recovery - from bench dust to old carpet and even water waste (and find out just how much gold was reclaimed from one jeweller's carpet!. Safe and sustainable refining - what not to put in your sweep bags. Understanding the full refining cycle - how reclaimed metals return to the trade as new bullion and casting grain. Choosing your return option - whether you prefer a direct payment or fine metal grain to reuse in your next jewellery creation. Packed with insider advice and sustainability insights, this episode is a must-listen for any jeweller looking to reduce waste, recover hidden value, and close the loop on precious metal use in their practice. Listen now to discover how every speck, scrap, and sweep can make a difference - both for your business and for the planet. To find out more about Mastermelt, check out their website https://www.mastermeltgroup.com/