Studio 5: Rachael Plassard

Rachael Plassard is a Jewellery artist specialising in creating decorative and ornate jewellery in precious metals. Rachael has worked in the jewellery trade for over 10 years and went on to develop her distinctive style through a Master’s in Contemporary Jewellery at UCA Farnham, graduating in 2023.

Since then, her work has been showcased in several prestigious exhibitions including Rising Stars at the New Ashgate Gallery, Refiguring Nature at the Mayfair Gallery during London Craft Week, and the Global Graduate Exhibition at Romanian Jewellery Week, among others. She has also received several awards, including a Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Award and the Emerging Artist Award from Make Southwest.

Rachael’s work explores the reimagining of traditional ornamentation, drawing inspiration from decorative styles throughout history. She weaves personal narratives and symbolism into each piece, creating magical jewellery evoking memories and connection.

Rachael takes a maximalist approach to her work by layering up decorative surfaces and combining a mixture of techniques including etching, roller printing, and keum boo (gold foil). These combinations result in a richness and opulence: what at first glance might look like a Greek headdress or a baroque frame, on closer inspection reveals a contemporary aesthetic.

Alongside her practice, Rachael is passionate about sharing her jewellery knowledge and skills with others. She regularly teaches workshops at various venues as well as from her own studio, passing on traditional techniques and helping students develop creatively.