Rachel Helen Designs

We Have Moved!!

2011-07-25T20:51:00.002Z

We are excited to announce that the Rachel Helen Designs blog is now hosted directly through our brand new website!

Its been a long haul but we finally made it!

The new website is finally here!

Some of the new features include our new integrated blog, which will feature monthly posts on relative issues and all the latest news and updates from Rachel Helen Designs.

We also have a new fully secure online shopping cart which uses SagePay and accepts all major cards as well as PayPal.

And of course we have some beautiful exciting new products to whet your appetite.
We have extended the Ever After Collection to feature a wider range of products to give you a better choice on our off the shelf wedding and engagement rings.
We also have new products in all the one off collections including the Precious and Juniper Tree Collections.
The limited edition Nightshade Collection also features the beautiful new Morning Glory pendant and matching bracelet.

A new testimonial and commissions section has also been added to help give you inspiration for your own bespoke commissions.

We hope you enjoy browsing and welcome your comments and feedback!

Rachel Helen

The story of the Golden Hare...

2010-07-04T19:42:00.010Z

Just over a week before Christmas (2009) I received an email via a friend from the arts organisation Design Factory. They had received a commission request for an artist to design and make a golden hare similar to the Kit Williams Masquerade necklace.

I was first introduced to Kit Williams' work and the Golden Hare just a few months prior to this after reading an article in my daily newspaper and watching a documentary on the BBC. The second I saw the piece I was hooked!
Not only could I see immediate similarities to my own work in the craftsmanship and design of the piece, I also related to the fairy tale aspect and hidden stories within the design. It is a stunning work of art, one of the most inspiring and beautiful pieces of jewellery I have ever come across.

When I received the shout out for artists applications naturally, I replied immediately, without a thought.
Apparently my excitement and enthusiasm transcribed into the email so much so that Paul replied back almost straight away!

After months of telephone conversations & emails we finally had the design fine tuned and ready to go!
I was absolutely delighted to be working on such an amazing piece. For me it was a dream commission! I couldn't have asked for anything more..

Making the first cut into the metal was pretty nerve wracking and exciting all at the same time. The design was hand cut from 18ct gold sheet metal. I started with the out line of the overall body and then worked on the detail in the centre of the body by drilling and carefully cutting out each little detail.
As I work in an open studio space I thought it best to forewarn my fellow residents of what I was working on and ignore them for a while!

So after several weeks of solitude and concentration the stones where finally set and the piece beautifully polished, ready to find its new home.
The entire process went exactly as planned and everything came together perfectly.

On the day that Paul & Rosey where due to collect the piece I had mixed feelings of apprehension, excitement and a slight sorrow knowing that my beautiful golden hare was finally leaving me.
I had not actually met Paul face to face throughout the whole process so I had no idea what reaction to expect from him and more importantly his wife Rosey.
As soon as they walked through the door I knew that the piece was going to the right home.
The excitement and joy expressed by Rosey when she opened the box was worth all the hard work and seeing it worn with such pride made it even better!

This was a dream commission for me from start to finish. The design, the symbolism, the beauty of the material and gemstones made it an absolute joy to work on!

Paul's Story
"I have been attracted to the Kit Williams/golden hare story since it first came to the publics' attention. As a young man, in the early 1970s, I used to live in Westoning, a small village in Bedfordshire, about five miles from Ampthill. I used to play rugby for Ampthill (4th XV!) and had visited the park with my baby daughter on hot, sunny weekend afternoons. So, when I heard about the story, and particularly that the hare was found in Ampthill Park I felt drawn to the story because I used to live there. Moreover, when I first saw the hare I was knocked out by the beauty of the piece. I found it magical.

I wanted to have a piece of jewellery made for Rosey and my motivation for this coincided with the 30th anniversary of the publication of the William's book - so the two ideas came together, a piece of jewellery modelled on the original hare.

The symbols: I felt that a moon and stars were important because they help conjure a sense of magic. Semi-precious stones were important to give the piece an exotic appearance. The tortoise is me!

The design process: Conducting this via email and telephone worked perfectly well, thanks to Rachel's fantastic (and accurate) illustrations and her reliable communication and honesty.

On first sight of the hare: Rosey was very surprised at the size of the piece and it's impact. It was larger than she anticipated. She was struck by the intricacy and detail. It is beautiful. Rosey particularly likes the way that the hare has been cut and the setting of the jewels. She really enjoys wearing the hare as people are very interested in looking at it. She feels spoilt (I am pleased she does).

I think that the hare has exceeded all my expectations. I knew it would be good. It is actually fantastic."
P. Darbyshire 2010

Rachel Helen Designs at The British Museum!

2010-06-30T16:35:00.002Z

As of this weekend The Juniper Tree Collection will be available for sale from one of the gift shops in The British Museum!

Its taken several months of designing, making and paperwork but finally we are there. The first batch of stock was delivered on Monday and will be in store this weekend.

If your in the area go and check it out! .. and let me know how it looks!

New 2010 Prices and other news!

2010-03-31T08:18:00.006Z

Wow! what a busy start to the year!
We have lots of exciting news including new products, price changes and very exciting commissions on the way!

Following our 2010 Price Review we are pleased to announce that the recycled vintage Juniper Tree Collection is now available at new lower prices!
We have been able to speed up production and bring down material costs so that we can offer you some of our favorite one off pieces at more affordable prices.
Check out the new prices on the website now...
Remember all Juniper Tree Jewellery is completely one off so once its gone its gone.. Order today so you don't miss out!

We also have a brand new limited edition Bangle now available from our exclusive Nightshade Collection
The newest edition to our Nightshade Collection features a beautiful sterling silver 4 Seasons Bangle designed to match the popular pendant of the same design.
Both the pendant and bracelet are available in four colourways, Spring, Summer, Autumn & Winter.
All pieces featured in the collection are limited to only 50 of each design.
For more details view the product page.

Christmas Meyhem..

2009-12-07T20:44:00.004Z

So it been a busy few months in the run up to Christmas..

Lots going on..
Exhibited at Handmade Chelsea in November, but had disappointing numbers.. met some fabulous people through it though so its not all bad..

The Sterling Silver Nightshade Collection is now officially available for sale on the website and lots of new Juniper Tree recycled vintage jewellery has been uploaded in the last few days.

Had a brilliant Open Studios event this weekend. Thank you to everyone that came along!
If you would like to be informed of any future Open events or exhibitions please join the Rachel Helen Mailing list and you will be the first to hear of all events and sales!

Lots of exciting Christmas commissions on the way.. more news to follow in the new year..

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!

PRESS RELEASE: Palladium Jewellery

2009-10-15T16:19:00.002Z

Palladium jewellery, perfect for a credit crunch Christmas
British designer recommends the newly Hallmarked precious metal

Set to become the latest fashion in jewellery design, Palladium can offer cost-conscious consumers the chance to buy stunning jewellery – at half the cost of Platinum. Palladium looks like Platinum and is currently cheaper than white gold it was awarded its Hallmark in August 2009.

Derbyshire-based jewellery designer Rachel Helen has seen Palladium commissions treble in September alone, and she knows exactly why:

“Palladium has strong and luxurious qualities. Its rarity and brilliant white appearance have made it exceptionally popular this year, particularly since it achieved its official Hallmark. People call me every day to ask about the costs of commissioning individual pieces of jewellery for gifts or weddings and they are so often thrilled when they discover Palladium exists – a precious metal that offers them a high quality, as well as cost effective, end result.

“Although in the trade we have known about Palladium’s potential for many years, this precious metal has suddenly burst into the consumer marketplace. It’s ideal for those people who are looking to buy a stunning gift or commission a unique piece of jewellery, but would rather watch their spending carefully and get the best value for their hard-earned pounds.”
Rachel Helen Designs offers commissions in all precious metals, including the newly recognised Palladium. Rachel also has a variety of other collections offering limited edition or bespoke products.

PRESS RELEASE: Juniper Tree

2009-10-15T16:13:00.003Z

Visit the land of make believe with British jewellery designer’s Juniper Tree range
The dark side of fairy tales inspires latest collection

Inspired by the darker side of fairy tales, jewellery designer Rachel Helen has created a range of recycled, hand-finished, vintage jewellery. Guaranteed to be one of a kind, these pieces make a perfect gift and a unique statement. More ‘Wicked Witch of the West’ than ‘Cinderella’, when wearing this jewellery, you’ll feel more like a naughty princess than a sleeping beauty!
Designer Rachel Helen comments:
“The Juniper Tree Collection uses recycled vintage jewellery by combining broken and unwanted gems to create new bespoke on-trend pieces. Striking, bold creations ensure a contemporary take on vintage classics and creates jewellery that screams to be worn. These pieces make stunning gifts for friends and relatives, as well as a great treat for you!”
Designed in her Derbyshire-based studios, Rachel Helen offers a range of pieces including rings, brooches, chokers, necklaces and hair accessories, as part of her Juniper Tree Collection. For a more sentimental gift, Rachel will also recycle unworn family costume jewellery in the style of the Juniper Tree Collection enabling you to breathe new life into your existing pieces.

Nightshade Collection now in Sterling Silver!

2009-10-04T15:11:00.003Z

Just got back from a lovely relaxing holiday to find a very exciting parcel waiting for me!
I've been developing two fabulous necklaces from the Nightshade Collection from stainless steel to Sterling Silver. The silver models are back from the casting offices and are ready to be made into beautiful sparkly pieces! Can't wait to get started.. !

Once they have been tarted up and made to look beautiful they will be available for sale through the website..
The pieces will cost just £118.00 each at RRP.. however I'll be offering some good discounts in a few weeks for special Christmas gifts so keep watching!

If you can't wait that long please feel free to get in touch so one can be specially made.

Recycling Jewellery Classes with Rachel Helen Designs...

2009-09-18T09:07:00.008Z

..want to learn how to make use of your sentimental, unloved or broken jewellery?

For £25.00 per person Rachel Helen will help you design and make your very own piece of unique vintage recycled jewellery..

The classes are to be held at Shed 2 Studios in Ilkeston, Derbyshire on the following dates:

Wednesday 14th October 6.30pm - 9pm
Sunday 18th October 4pm - 6.30pm
Monday 26th October 6.30pm - 9pm

Light refreshments will be provided along with all tools, equipment and a whole host of little treasures to delve into..
Each guest will be encouraged to dig into the bottom of their own jewellery boxes and bring along any broken, damaged or unwanted pieces of jewellery to be exchanged or revived..
Everyone will receive personal tutoring from Rachel Helen and be shown how to design and make your very own special piece of vintage recycled jewellery.

Places are limited to just 6 people per class.
To secure a place please contact Rachel
for a booking form and return by post or email with your £10 deposit.

Deposits can be paid by cheque to Rachel Helen Designs or by clicking the Buy Now button to submit through PayPal.
When paying by PayPal be sure to indicate your preferred date. 2nd and 3rd choices should be indicated in the booking form.

Palladium the new Platinum?

2009-09-07T19:45:00.007Z

Last month saw the long awaited release of the official Palladium hallmark for the UK.

As a great fan of this exciting new jewellery material I thought I would share some basic information to help you make informed choices when deciding if this is the material for your jewellery.

a.) Palladium is from the same group of metals as Platinum.
b.) It looks very similar to Platinum in colour.
c.) Palladium doesn't tarnish or need rhodium plating like white gold and silver.
d.) It wears in a similar way to Platinum. Surface marks can be easily cleaned by a professional jeweller. (We offer free polishing on all precious metal purchases)
e.) Palladium is of a similar weight to white gold which means it can be comfortable to wear even in larger pieces.

.. and the best bit?!
f.) ...at the moment Palladium is cheaper than white gold and almost half the price of Platinum!!

So if you are looking for a fabulous good quality wedding or engagement ring on a budget palladium is the perfect option!

For more information and advice on palladium and to discuss commission options please feel free to get in touch

Two New Sterling Silver Bangles Online

2009-09-05T12:06:00.006Z

Check out the two new sterling silver bangles listed online today..
Click on the images for more details..

New Ever After Collection

2009-09-02T09:28:00.004Z

The brand new Ever After Collection offers off the shelf wedding and engagement rings at competitive prices.

In the past we have just designed and made bespoke wedding and engagement rings now this new range offers simple off the shelf designs with high quality diamonds and precious gemstones.

When buying an engagement ring it is always a good idea to have a budget in mind. We will help you keep within your budget and get the best value for your money.

All prices are on application as it is dependent on size of stone, metal and size of ring. All Rachel Helen Jewellery is available in Platinum, Palladium, all Golds & Sterling Silver (unless otherwise stated)..

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss your options...

The Nightshade Collection

2009-09-02T09:14:00.006Z

Rachel Helen Designs recently launched two exciting new product ranges!

The Nightshade collection offers three gorgeous limited edition designs, you simply choose the colours.
The current range listed online is handmade in hypoallergenic stainless steel but we are currently looking into ways of offering the same designs in sterling silver..
One of the three designs is taken from the Rachel Helen Butterfly design..

The other two designs feature a three leaf pendant available in the colours of the four seasons and a fabulous wing hair slide inspired by art nouveau and butterflies..

Simons Cat.. part 3!!

2008-11-10T23:49:00.002Z

The eagerly anticipated third episode of Simon's Cat.. and I missed its release! Just discovered the link after a much loved reminder of the other two.. enjoy!!

New Website Launch!!

2008-11-03T18:58:00.004Z

The brand new Rachel Helen Designs website is live!

Its been a long time coming but it was worth the wait..

With simplified online shopping and brand new product images the site is designed to make Christmas shopping easier.

With two distinct ranges to choose from delve into the gothic creations of The Juniper Tree range or take a trip through the fairytale dreamland of the bespoke and bridal collections.

Check it out here!

The Juniper Tree...

2008-08-20T19:08:00.008Z

Introducing the new vintage range from Rachel Helen Designs!

"The Juniper Tree"

Recycled vintage jewellery. Each piece follows the Rachel Helen ethos of hand finished individual designs all made in Derbyshire.

Influenced by the dark side of fairy tales this exciting new range recycles forgotten treasures and turns them into something special and new!

Rachel Helen Designs will be exhibiting at this years Wirksworth festival on the 6th & 7th September 2008.

Check out the full range now at www.thejunipertree.etsy.com

Blu

2008-05-17T12:45:00.002Z

After a weeks holiday this morning has been spent re-uniting myself with the internet.

Check out this fantasic graffiti animation by Blu.. this is his blog.

It takes a while to load but worth the wait..

Fairy Tales & Magic..

2008-04-22T19:32:00.006Z

Tonight I happened across a wonderful page filled with fairy tale magic.. Link
A strange coinsidence - since the new range of Rachel Helen jewellery has been spilling out all over my sketch book in a frenzied magical creative splurge for a few days!!

The new limited edition range 'Once upon a midnight hour' (working title) - follows the influence of the darker side of fairy tales, taking refrence from tales of all variety and meaning..

For a sneaky glimpse of the work in progress, take this drawing and turn it into silver and stone...
xxx

Pan's Labyrinth...

2008-04-18T07:10:00.002Z

I missed this first time round. Desparately wanted to see it at the cinema but never had chance!
Totally forgot about all the hype, then happened across it on freeview earlier this week!..
WOW!! How did I manage to miss this??!! Absolutely fantastic film.. so dark and erie just like real Fairy Tales where intended! If the Brothers Grimm made films I'm sure they would look like this..
link

Bikes & bums..

2008-04-10T19:25:00.003Z

I happened across this page today.. Link

ahh so many memories of lovely Amsterdam.. I just love the way they decorate.. everything!!
Such a lovely site.. you can't beat the way these old fashioned bikes look so cool.. none of this mountain bike 50 gears, super suspension rubbish! Real hardcore bum hurting leg aching reality! Give me one of these over super suspension any day!

Simons Cat..

2008-04-02T18:50:00.002Z

Genius Animation that should brighten any day!

Shop full of Joy..

2008-03-23T20:03:00.004Z

This used to be one of my favorite shops in Nottingham - such a shame its no longer there.. but Yey for internet shopping! All the georgous fabness is still available online!
.. Just a pitty you can't twiddle and mooch through the internet!

http://www.joy-shop.co.uk

2008-03-22T11:08:00.000Z

Haven't seen this for years! made me laugh then.. still does now!!

Buns & Sparkle...

2008-03-18T19:45:00.009Z

There just never seems to be enough hours in the day do squeeze in all the stuff I want to do!!
I haven't stopped for over a week now.. Can't wait for this lovely long bun filled weekend to be upon us!..

Rachel Helen Designs is currently developing a new limited edition range of sparkly jewels. I am in the process of research and development and need the help of all the lovely people out there..
The Rachel Helen survey is now live and needs as many responces as possible!.. It literally takes less than 2 minutes to complete - very easy questions and the chance to win your very own piece of Rachel Helen Jewellery..
Please click here to take the survey now!
If you would prefer to take the survey annonomusly just leave the contact fields blank - this means you wont be entered into the competition..
Competition Rules
1. Only one entry per person, 2. All entries must be received by Friday 11th April 08, 3. The winner will be notified by the 18th April 08, 4. Competition winner will be announced in the May newsletter .

Thank you!!
Please feel free to pass the link on..

Cat Came Back..

2008-03-16T23:06:00.003Z

This is my all time fav animation! Thank God for You Tube! I've been waiting for this to appear online for years!

Prince Rupert's Drop

2008-03-11T20:24:00.003Z

wow! cool...

Rachel Helen Bridal Shoot..

2008-03-11T19:33:00.007Z

This is a few samples of some of my favorite pics from the recent Rachel Helen Designs bridal shoot.. A fab day was had all round and I think the photos speak for themselves!! Thanks again to everyone involved!
All Photographs Copyright Sarah Gawler.

Models - Amy & Caroline
Make Up - Ewelina Chudzinska
Dresses - Charlotte Balbier
Flowers - Tineke
Venue - The London Golf Club

Even more randomness...

2008-03-09T18:00:00.005Z

This next pic is another I spotted on my afternoon walk to the pub... it kinda follows on from the lonely hat we saw the day before... I feel a theme coming on here...

No parking??

2008-03-09T17:46:00.003Z

I spotted this yesterday in the middle of nowhere.. surrounded by fields and trees... cracked me up.. especially after a couple of pints... had to take the pic with my phone camera though so its kinda blurry (nothing to do with the pints.. honest)! .. gotta steal that dinky little camera back of my fella soon!

Trembled Blossoms - Prada

2008-03-08T11:53:00.001Z

I absolutely love this video - I descovered it a few weeks ago and have watched it a least a dosen times since!!

Lonely Hat..

2008-03-08T10:26:00.003Z

I sppotted this yesterday while out in the blustery windy fields.. took the piccie on my mobile its not the best photo - but I like the randomness...

Inspiration - A new direction?

2008-03-07T00:00:00.005Z

After almost a year since last logging onto my blog I think it is now time to pick up the pieces and try again..

Tonight I attended my first CIN event in Derby, the guest speaker, Russell Davies, a renowned blogger and advertising genius has sent me away full of creativity and motivation to make something new from this sad effort of a blog and try to turn it into an online scrap book for myself and other struggling creatives with a love of beautiful sparkly things..!!

To get the ball rolling I'm adding a link to the wonderful world of Momiji. I've been a fan of this wonderfully quirky brand for a while and tonight I had the pleasure of meeting a lovely member of the Momiji team..

Enjoy x

Wedding Jewellery

2007-04-22T18:00:00.000Z

Website Update..

2007-04-05T20:10:00.000Z

My latest work is now available online.. Heres a little sample...

check out my website at http://www.rachelhelendesigns.com for more

New Pens!!!

2007-04-05T19:49:00.000Z

Got some new colouring pens the other day!! I've not had this much fun since I was a small child!!

Inspirational Pictures

2007-03-25T08:52:00.000Z

Check out some of my favorite pictures taken by my favorite photographer!!

Check back soon for more!

New Old Tools!!!

2007-03-24T18:30:00.000Z

Wow!! What a day!..
It's all go at Rachel Helen Designs lately! Not even time to update my blog!

Today I got up at 5am and traveled from Derby to Seaton in Devon and back again! All in the aid of new old tools!!! It only took about 11hrs!

Its all very exciting.. but exhausting!! Last week I happened across an ad from a retiring jeweller who is selling all his old equipment for an absolute bargain.. the only catch, he lives in Devon and he wants rid of the whole lot, including a 350kg safe that took four people, lots of head scratching and heave hoeing to get anywhere near the van!!
After about an hour and a half we finally managed to get it all in and I now have my own fully equipt workshop with almost all the tools necessary to do almost any job! It is fantastic.. I can hardly contain my excitement.. Unfortunately no one in my house fully understands what all these things are about, so they all think I'm mad!! What kind of girl gets excited by tools ey?!!..

So other BIG news for Rachel Helen Designs is making contact with wedding dress designer Charlotte Balbier!! After making contact with her and introducing my new wedding jewellery, she invited me to supply samples of my work to be used in the next dress shoot they do in June! I will be going to her studios to see her new range first hand and from there I will design and make some pieces to match.. I can't wait!!
Her work is so beautiful and inspirational.. Check out the website.. http://www.charlottebalbier.com/
This is just one of my favorites!!

Sneaky Peak!

2007-03-11T19:41:00.000Z

Check out one of the pieces from my new range.. More pictures will be posted soon..
x

Hello...!

2007-03-07T20:51:00.000Z

Welcome to my brand new shiney blog..!

I will be filling these pages with lots of pretty sparkly things of my own as well as other inspirational pieces, cool pictures and exciting things that I think should be shared with the world!

Please feel free to leave comments and get in touch if you want to know anything about what I do or if you have interesting things to share! I always like to hear from people with common interests.

To get things started check out some of my latest work commissioned by a friend for her extra special wedding day!

These are fully hallmarked sterling silver pieces made with Swarovski pearls and crystals. Both the necklace and the tiara where designed specifically to match the dress colour and to fit perfectly.

I'll be adding more like this as the days go on so please check back!