Kate Laity
Living in West Cornwall, in the UK, one of the most beautiful, rugged and often remote coastal regions in the world informs both my lifestyle and my work.  My family and I are passionate about getting out and exploring the coast and inland landscape of Cornwall as often as possible, and   promoting the protection of the environment, as reflected in my range of sterling silver and recycled and found object jewellery.  		 
Forged silver rings


 My creative background and degree training is in three dimensional design, (3D Design) at the University of Wales, principally large scale metalwork, (coming as I do from a long line of Cornish blacksmiths).  As a blacksmith journeyman myself, I worked on large scale steel structures including public sculptures, large gates for historic properties and metal furniture for private clients.  My silversmithing skills have been developed through a range of courses and I have continued to expand my skills through experimentation and sharing ideas with fellow craftspeople.
Sea glass jewellery
The sea glass for my jewellery is salvaged from our local beaches.  The infinite variety of subtle colours, shapes,  and degree of tumbling is what makes finding, sorting and cleaning the glass such fun, and quite exciting if you happen to find a sea glass marble!  Some of the pieces are quite obviously old, bearing the remnants of raised branding from the Victorian era, and earlier.  After careful cleaning I hand drill the glass, to make delicately coloured, recycled beads ready to incorporate into my  work.
Sea glass earrings

Drilled sea glass
Beaded Jewellery
I take inspiration from the forms and beauty of the natural world to create a very fresh and different kind of beaded jewellery.  I use Japanese seed beads, Indian and African recycled beads, and gemstones. The work uses fine quality non-tarnish beading wire and sterling silver wire and findings.  The huge number of different colours I incorporate into this intricate jewellery always draws comments, as does the level of craftsmanship and detail.

Commission work in progress
Beaded butterflies

Check out the collections on the menu, or feel free to contact me by email about an individual commission.

 
Custom orders / commissions
I am accustomed to and enjoy working with clients to create unique and personal commissions.  Perhaps there is a special occasion you would like a piece made for, an outfit to match or a gift for someone.  I am always delighted to work on individual pieces.  I am also happy to simply adjust one of my existing designs to suit your needs - or make matching items.  Be sure to include any special requirements when placing an order through the online shop.
 

Flower jewellery


   



        

 

 

 
Glasswing Jewellery   Penzance   Cornwall   UK    TR18 2HB.

Tel: 01736 795603