JET Success: Anya Gibbins
19 Jun 2024
Belinda Morris, editor of The Jeweller, sits down with Anya Gibbins, the January winner of the Clarity & Success award, highlighting to best JET 1 project of the month.
“I joined the world of jewellery just over a year ago, as an assistant buyer for Signet Jewellers, under the Ernest Jones brand. Before that, I had worked in fashion buying since graduating with a fashion degree in 2019. I always loved the way jewellery allowed for personality and a wow factor to complete any look on the catwalk and in magazines. When the opportunity arose to work with jewellery, I knew I would thoroughly enjoy learning more about this exciting industry.
With In my current role, I work with beautiful jewellery, from classic gold pieces to elegant pearl and diamond styles, so having knowledge of gemstones, metal types, designs and components is very important, especially in a role where product is a key focus.
Soon after I started at Signet, I learnt of the NAJ’s JET1 course. As a newcomer to the industry, taking the course provided me with invaluable knowledge and understanding of the industry.
While the course covered many interesting topics, I really enjoyed more in-depth learning of diamond formation and their extensive history. It really put into perspective how rare and precious these stones are. The Kimberly Process was more challenging, due to its heavy focus on government legislation and political involvement.
In my final project, I focused on the brand Van Cleef & Arpels. It followed a module on iconic jewellery designers and their history. What stood out to me was the brand’s rich history and extensive inspiration from travel, nature and fantasy, which infuses its most iconic pieces. I love how each collection conveys a narrative through its craftsmanship and use of innovative techniques. I’ve always felt jewellery can tell a story, whether it’s a sentimental piece that marks a special moment or a contemporary one that shows personality.
I look forward to implementing the knowledge I gained on the course. I would also be interested to learn more about the NAJ JET2 certificate and its modules, especially if it could help me expand my knowledge further in progressing my career at Signet and in the jewellery industry"
Source: National Association of Jewellers