306. Why It Is Essential To Upskill As A Jeweller In 2026 with Emma René

If you are feeling stuck or ready for more in your jewellery journey, upskilling could be the key to moving forward in 2026. Jess is joined by jeweller Emma René, founder of Narratorium, who shares her journey from building a jewellery business with minimal formal training to investing in her skills through the Diploma in Fine Jewellery. They discuss the realities of reaching a plateau, the limits of learning through trial and error, and how structured learning, mentoring and feedback can transform both your confidence and your work. Emma also shares how upskilling is shaping the future direction of her business, as she moves towards creating more refined, high-end pieces and working with new techniques such as stone setting. If you are ready to improve your skills, pivot your business or take your jewellery to the next level, this episode will give you insight and inspiration.   Key Moments 00:02:00 – Introduction to the episode and upskilling as a jeweller 00:03:57 – Emma's journey and starting her jewellery business 00:06:11 – Early challenges and working with manufacturers 00:08:35 – Balancing business, family and growth 00:08:58 – Reaching a plateau and deciding to upskill 00:11:14 – The value of structured learning 00:11:58 – Expanding into gemstones and stone setting 00:14:17 – First experiences of the Fine Diploma 00:16:08 – Mentoring, community and support 00:16:22 – The impact of expert feedback 00:18:23 – Growth in confidence and skills 00:20:41 – Shifting towards fine jewellery 00:23:28 – Navigating business changes and industry shifts 00:25:19 – Building confidence with higher-value materials 00:27:42 – Favourite projects on the Diploma 00:29:45 – Sharing the journey through Diploma Diaries 00:32:04 – Advice for jewellers considering upskilling   Learn more about the Diploma in Fine Jewellery https://www.jewellersacademy.com/diploma-in-fine-jewellery   About Emma Emma René is the founder of Narratorium, a jewellery brand she launched after leaving her career as an art director in advertising to pursue her own creative path. Over the past ten years, she has built her business while developing her skills in silversmithing alongside raising a family. She is currently expanding into fine jewellery as a student on the Diploma in Fine Jewellery, focusing on advanced techniques such as stone setting and higher-end design.   https://www.narratorium.co.uk/ Follow her @narratorium