"It had suddenly occured to me that jewellery was just a miniature form of sculpture, with the potential to contain deeper meanings because the pieces are so intimate to the wearer"

- Justin Duance

Justin Duance designs and creates his contemporary jewellery using silver or gold and non-precious materials, such as wood and resin. Every piece is hand-crafted in his workshop in Newlyn, overlooking the sea. This small fishing town at the western end of Cornwall, achieved international renown when a group of painters (collectively known today as the Newlyn School) were attracted to the natural beauty and light at the end of the 19th Century. This group drew their inspiration from the French style of "Plein Air" painting. Today this region is developing into a lively cultural centre for contemporary arts and crafts.

Justin's work is also deeply influenced by the surrounding countryside and ocean; by the way they engage with each other, constantly conflicting, whilst paradoxically achieving a harmonic balance. The combination of precious metals with hard woods and plastics results in unique pieces which change with wear. Every piece is hallmarked and has Justin Duance's makers mark, so you can be sure of its originality and quality.

You can purchase any of the contemporary jewellery on his website, or commission him to create an original piece to your specifications. Justin's jewellery is available in many galleries throughout the UK, several of which are listed on his website.

Justin Duance first became interested in jewellery in 1996 when doing a foundation in art at Portsmouth university.

He then went on to develop this concept, experimenting in creating contemporary jewellery using unconventional materials such as concrete and lego.

In 1997 Justin went on to study a BA in Jewellery and Silversmithing at Sir John Cass Faculty of Art in London. During the three year degree his designs continued to use unconventional materials as he experimented further with combining different textures.

After finishing his BA in 2000 Justin assisted Kelvin Birk, an internationally acclaimed goldsmith who specializes in working with concrete and precious metals, such as silver and gold. Justin found Kelvin's work inspirational and thereafter began to develop his own unique style.