Introduction

Introduction

The aim of this research report was to investigate how to use organic contemporary jewellery as metaphoric interpretations of my personal experiences.  The research was undertaken by means of action research, examining various papers, books and articles written by accomplished jewellery artists in the field of contemporary jewellery. These papers, books and articles have provided the terminology and definitions necessary to understand the chosen research topic, making up chapter one. Throughout this chapter, I have spoken about the functions of jewellery, positions of jewellery, organic jewellery, movement jewellery and metaphor in jewellery.

Chapter two consists of a literature review of the writings and images of jewellery pieces by other jewellers who I have used as references. Their jewellery pieces share similar characteristics to my jewellery pieces. I have spoken about how these jewellers use nature as inspiration for the pieces that they create as well as their use of metaphor.

Chapter three speaks about the jewellery pieces and prototypes that I have created for this research report. This chapter includes the techniques, methods, poetry and meanings behind my jewellery pieces. This chapter uses the terminology and definitions learned in the first two chapters to explain the body of work that I have created.

van der Linden, A., (2019) Gooseberry Brooch Sketch

Introduction

Part of my Btech research revolves around the question "what is contemporary jewellery?"  to help me answer this question, I look into the physical meanings of jewellery, the functions of jewellery, the constants, issues and positions of jewellery. It is difficult to pinpoint the true meaning of the term and that it is up to individuals to 'settle on their own interpretations' (Metcalf 1998:1). Throughout my Btech journey, I will draw up my own definitions to this question based on the discoveries that I make from my research.