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Welcome to Annika Rutlin Jewellery If you were to visit me here in my workshop in Peacehaven, Sussex, you’d find me surrounded by tools, sketches, and the distinct rhythmic sound of a hammer hitting an anvil. This is where I spend my days, and it is the heart of Annika Rutlin Jewellery. For over 30 years, I have been dedicated to a singular idea: that jewellery should be more than just a decorative accessory. It should be sculptural, tactile, and meaningful. My work is often described as "Scandinavian inspired, British made," a phrase that perfectly captures my background and my approach to design. I aim to bring together the clean, minimalist lines of my Swedish heritage with the quality and solidity of traditional British craftsmanship. I don’t design for the sake of fashion trends that fade in a season. I design pieces that are meant to be worn, loved, and kept for a lifetime. My Journey to the Bench... My path to becoming a jeweller began in Stockholm, where I completed a modern apprenticeship. That early training was invaluable; it instilled in me a respect for materials and a love for the "less is more" aesthetic that defines so much of Scandinavian design. However, I wanted to push the boundaries of what I could create, which brought me back to the UK. I studied at Sheffield University, earning a degree in 3D Design. That background in three-dimensional form is crucial to how I work today. When I’m at the bench, I’m not just thinking about how a piece looks from the front; I’m thinking about the weight, the balance, and how it sits against the body. A few years in the london jewellery trade followed providing me with a wealth of experince and great contacts. Now, based on the Sussex coast, I draw inspiration from both my surroundings and my roots. Whether I am working in Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Palladium, my goal is to create jewellery that feels substantial and "real." The Joy of Hand Forging: The Torc While I utilize various techniques, my true passion lies in hand forging. There is something deeply satisfying about the ancient art metal shaping with a hammer. It is physically demanding work, but it allows me to manipulate the metal in ways that machines simply cannot replicate. This love for forging is best expressed in my signature pieces: the Torcs. I have a deep fascination with the Torc. These rigid, open-ended neck rings are steeped in history—worn by Celtic warriors and queens—yet they feel incredibly modern. I love the process of forging a single, solid bar of silver or gold, tapering the ends and shaping it to fit the human form perfectly. They are designed to sit elegantly on the collarbone, providing a look that is both simple and striking. There is something empowering about the structure of a Torc; many of my clients tell me they stand a little taller and feel more confident the moment they put one on. The Collections My collections are diverse, often drawing on mythology and nature, but they all share a common thread of strong, sculptural forms. Here are a few that represent my style best: The Idun Collection Named after the Norse goddess of youth and rejuvenation, this collection calls back to my Scandinavian roots. The designs are organic and fluid, often featuring apple motifs and soft curves. It is a celebration of nature and vitality, contrasting beautifully with some of my more angular, geometric work. The Raven Collection This collection is deeply rooted in Norse mythology, inspired by Huginn and Muninn—the two ravens of the god Odin, representing "Thought" and "Memory." These pieces are a bit darker and more mysterious. I often use oxidation or black diamonds to capture the essence of the raven’s wing. It’s jewellery for those who appreciate storytelling and symbolism, serving as a reminder of the power of the mind and history. The "Year Of" Collection I enjoy interpreting symbols in new ways. My Chinese Zodiac collection (Year of the Snake, Tiger, Horse, etc.) avoids caricature. Instead, I look for the essence of the sign—the sleekness of the snake or the strength of the tiger—and translate that into a contemporary silver or gold form. It allows you to wear your birth sign or that of a loved one in a way that feels sophisticated and abstract rather than cartoonish. Bespoke Commissions & Upcycling While I love designing my own collections, some of my most rewarding work comes from collaborating directly with clients. Because every piece is made in-house here in Sussex, I offer a full bespoke service. I am particularly passionate about upcycling. So many people have heirloom jewellery sitting in drawers—pieces that are sentimental but perhaps not to their taste or quite worn out. I love the process of melting down that old gold and reforming it into a new, modern design. It preserves the emotional history of the metal while transforming it into something you will actually wear and enjoy every day. It is a sustainable, personal, and deeply meaningful way to approach fine jewellery. Industry Recognition I take great pride in the craftsmanship that goes into my work, and it has been an honor to have that recognized by the industry over the years. Goldsmiths' Craft & Design Council Awards: Receiving a design commendation here was a career highlight. Perles De Tahiti: I was awarded 1st place in the Male Jewellery category and 3rd in the Parure category. Pewter Live: First Prize. The World Gold Council: Highly Commended. These awards are not just accolades; they are an assurance to my clients that when they buy a piece from me, they are investing in award-winning design and construction. Looking Forward Whether you are looking for a statement hand-forged Torc, a unique wedding band, or looking to breathe new life into an old family heirloom, I am here to help. My jewellery is made to be worn, to be held, and to become a part of your story. Thank you for taking the time to learn about my work. — Annika