Bourne jeweller wins Britain’s Next Gem on the Jewellery Maker channel

A silversmith is looking forward to her crafty creation hitting the shelves after winning a television competition.

Justine Jones was crowned winner of Britain’s Next Gem just 12 months after picking up her tools for the first time in 25 years.

As part of the competition Justine showcased her jewellery-making skills and pitched her idea for a new crafting tool which will now be brought to market.

The bead buddy is designed to help people with limited dexterity to hold wires and beads while crafting.

Justine, from Bourne, said: “It’s been a great experience. I didn’t even expect to make it to the final never mind win. I just thought it sounded like a nice day out where I’d get fed and watered.”

The 53-year-old studied silversmithing in Birmingham’s jewellery quarter but gave it up during her final year of university when her father died in a car accident.

After 25 years, she decided to give it another go and Justine joined a jewellery-making course in Bourne last year to reignite her passion.

She went on to enter the Britain’s Next Gem competition which was hosted by the Jewellery Maker television channel. The winner was chosen by a public vote.

Announcing Justine as the winner on Facebook, the organisers said: “The amazing story behind your product touched the hearts of our viewers, making you the winner.

“Our buyers are now working in the background to get Justine's idea onto the market, so watch out in the coming months for a new product launch from Justine.”