14 Pruden and Smith

Pruden and Smith are designers and craftsmen in precious metals whose passion for contemporary design shows in everything they do. Their gallery and workshop, on Ditchling Crossroads, showcases their work in gold, platinum, and silver incorporating diamonds and unusual gemstones from all over the world. Over the last 30 years their complete precious metal design-to-make service, from engagement rings to chalices, has delighted customers worldwide. This year’s collection features hand cut Rough Diamonds, Emerald, Tanzanite, Lapis lazuli and Labradorite.
They also incorporate or redesign your existing jewellery in a process called ‘A Precious Legacy’. Designer Rebecca Smith takes inspiration and materials from your jewellery collection to generate designs for new pieces. It ensures that your jewellery is enjoyed and worn whilst maintaining the sentimental connection to past pieces.
The jewellery pictured has been made with recommissioned antique diamonds in 18ct yellow gold. These antique diamonds are rare and unique, created by hand. The level of craftsmanship and skill required to create a beautiful diamond using only the most basic bruting techniques is astonishing. The connection that the diamond cutters had with their creations was much more labour intensive and personal than with modern laser cutting and each stone has it’s own character. Much more emphasis was put on the natural beauty of the diamond. These old cut diamonds have been remounted in 18ct yellow gold and their uneven shapes emphasized.
During the festival, take a tour of their workshops then follow it with a visit to Ditchling Museum of Art and Craft, which features the work and tools of Anton Pruden’s grandfather, Dunstan, silversmith with the Guild of St Joseph and St Dominic.