Britta Schwalm

Very Good in Jewelry Design.

Britta Schwalm

About Britta Schwalm

Britta Schwalm is an experienced goldsmith and graphic designer. She is working with heart and soul. As a goldsmith she is specialised in making jewellerydesign in customer request and upcycling. Her workshop is located in Langen/Hessen, near Frankfurt/Main in Germany. The project "Blessed child" combines the skills of both of her professions in a unique way. Basic part in the manufacturing process is modern 3D technology. She was part of german TV docutainment "Hallo Schatz" as the expert for jewellry because she is an upcycling specialist. She was awarded with national and international prices.

  • Winner of 6 A' Design Awards.
  • Very Good in Jewelry Design.
  • Original Design.
  • Highly Creative, Diligent and Innovative.
  • All Designs
  • Jewelry
  • Fine Art
Elysian Necklace

Elysian Necklace

Jewelry Design

Mystery and Confession Rings

Mystery and Confession Rings

Jewelry Design

Eves Weapon Collier

Eves Weapon Collier

Jewelry Design

Glueckskind Charms

Glueckskind Charms

Jewelry Design

Meaningful Heart Concept to perpetuate emotions

Meaningful Heart Concept to perpetuate emotions

Jewelry Design

Blessed Child rings

Blessed Child rings

Fine Art Design

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Interview with Britta Schwalm

Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
I’m a goldsmith and studied design at university. Becoming a designer was always my goal, and jewelry design is my greatest passion.
Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
BrittasSchmiede is a workshop where unique, handcrafted jewelry is created. I combine traditional craftsmanship with the latest technologies, including laser engraving, CAD design, 3D modeling, and 3D printing. One of my recent collections is Glückskind, a brand-new jewelry line inspired by babies. You can explore more at http://www.brittasschmiede.de.
What is "design" for you?
Design transforms functionality into beauty. It should capture emotions—just like my piece Eve’s Weapon, which visualizes the many meanings associated with an apple: sin, temptation, power, health, and fertility—all expressed in a necklace.
What kinds of works do you like designing most?
Jewelry tailored to my customers’ desires—unique pieces that reflect their personality. I often study the jewelry they already wear and use it as a foundation to design something new that complements their style.
What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
I love designs that invite a second look. Eve’s Weapon, for example, is made of apples, but that detail isn’t immediately obvious. Glückskind plays with baby motifs, some hidden for a subtle touch. Figurative jewelry fascinates me—like a woman wrapped around a finger or a chess set where every piece is a silver sculpture of a woman.
When do you feel the most creative?
When I’m spending time with my son or enjoying quiet moments in nature—especially in my garden, with my cat on my lap, gazing at the pond.
Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
Wearability is key. A design should be beautiful but also practical.
What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
Seeing my work worn and appreciated is incredibly fulfilling. Once a piece finds its rightful place, I’m happy to move on to the next creation.
What makes a design successful?
A design is successful when it evokes emotion and resonates with people.
When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
A great design should offer a fresh perspective on a theme or concept.
From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
Sustainability. Design should ensure longevity. I often repurpose my customers’ existing jewelry, giving it new life. All the gold I use is 100% recycled.
How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
I believe and hope design continues to move toward responsibility—whether it’s for nature, humanity, or ethical sourcing.
When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
Eve’s Weapon was exhibited at Expo Milan, then in Antwerp, Belgium, before going on a worldwide roadshow. Glückskind was showcased at the Parallax Art Fair in London, IHM Munich, and later at Seele trifft Gold in the historic Villa Metzler in Frankfurt.
Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
My creativity flows best when I sit at my workstation and let my hands take over—I stop thinking and simply create.
How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
I love figurative design. The human body is an incredible creation, and incorporating its form into jewelry is an exciting challenge.
Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
I live in Germany, and though I’m sure my designs reflect a German aesthetic, I can’t quite define how. Designing here is easy—no major restrictions or limitations.
How do you work with companies?
My designs, including Glückskind, are primarily for individual clients. I’ve rarely collaborated with companies so far.
Can you talk a little about your design process?
I visualize my designs before creating them. At some point, the final image appears in my mind—that’s when I know it’s ready. The challenge is figuring out how to bring it to life.
What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
A painting by Prof. Schreiter, a large wooden bowl by Thomas Pildner, a spotted teapot, a glass sculpture Nike (which I created).
Can you describe a day in your life?
Every day is different—I’m a mom to an amazing young boy, which makes time my most valuable resource.
From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
The upside: If something around me is ugly, I can change it. The downside: There are so many things I’d love to redesign, but I can’t change everything.
What was your most important job experience?
Designing and crafting Eve’s Weapon—a necklace in 750/000 rose and white gold, set with 110 diamonds. It was nominated for the HRD award and truly shaped my career.
What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
Carving figures from wax, sculpting in gold, setting gemstones, sketching jewelry designs—I love every aspect of being a goldsmith.
What are your future plans? What is next for you?
Winning the A’Design Gold Award! My ongoing project Herz aus Altgold continues, and Glückskind will take its next big step.
Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
Mostly alone, though for Glückskind, I collaborate with a 3D design expert.
Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
Have a look at http://www.brittasschmiede.de/herz-aus-altgold/ Have a look at http://www.brittasschmiede.de/sterenenkind/

Designer of the Day Interview with Britta Schwalm

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?
After finishing school, I trained as a goldsmith. Following my apprenticeship, I decided to study design. After earning my degree, I thought I had to choose between both professions, but I ended up working as a designer and a goldsmith—both with passion and enthusiasm. As my goldsmith workshop grew, I decided to fully dedicate myself to the craft. Today, we are a team of three, and I also train apprentices.
How did you become a designer?
Being a goldsmith feels like being rewarded twice—once financially and once with the joy I see in my customer’s eyes. Instead of creating jewelry and searching for buyers, I design exactly what my customers envision. This process is deeply fulfilling, both for me and for them.
What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?
To understand my customers’ preferences, I listen carefully to their stories and ideas. I observe the way they present themselves and the jewelry they already wear. This helps me craft pieces that truly reflect their style and make them feel comfortable and confident.
What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?
Studying design perfectly complemented my goldsmith training. It helped me understand how design evolves over time. You can see these influences across different fields—from architecture and furniture to fashion. Everything shares a similar design language.
What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?
Right now, I’m completely satisfied with my work. My specialization in custom distinctions allows me to create a variety of unique jewelry pieces. Being present online helps more customers realize they can share their ideas with me, and I can bring them to life.
What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?
Luck plays a role. Keep trying, and don’t be discouraged if success doesn’t come immediately—it doesn’t mean you’re not talented.
What is your day to day look like?
I’m working on creating a steady routine, but every day brings something new. Different customers, different ideas—it’s always an opportunity to learn and experiment.
How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?
Some trends are significant—sustainability, for example, is essential. However, I focus more on micro-trends that emerge directly from my customers' preferences.
How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?
Good design makes me feel good, but more importantly, it makes the person wearing my jewelry feel great.
How do you decide if your design is ready?
That’s a tough question. Sometimes, I instinctively know it’s complete. Other times, I ask the customer directly, since I create pieces specifically for them. Some projects remain in constant refinement.
What is your biggest design work?
Eve’s Weapon, a necklace featuring 110 diamonds in 750/000 rose gold. You can see it at the A’ Design Award.
Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?
In Germany, emotions often need justification. Translating emotions, desires, and ideas into jewelry gives my customers a way to express themselves in a tangible, wearable form.
Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?
I take a step back and listen to my customers' visions. Since they aren’t goldsmiths, I translate their ideas into jewelry that truly reflects them. That’s where my creativity comes in.
What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?
Humanitarian projects are very important to me. I regularly support organizations dedicated to helping children (especially girls), protecting nature, and conserving wildlife.
What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?
The award helped me articulate my design philosophy more clearly, which was incredibly valuable. Winning an A’ Design Award also brings visibility to my work and is a great opportunity to prove skill in the field.

Extended Interview with Britta Schwalm

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?
I trained as a goldsmith, graduating at the top of my class. After gaining practical experience, I pursued a university degree in design. Becoming a designer was always my dream, and jewelry remains my greatest passion.
Which emotions do you feel when designing?
I design unique, custom jewelry tailored to my clients' wishes. My specialty is transforming outdated or inherited jewelry into something new. For example, if a customer inherits a vintage gold brooch with pearls, I can turn it into a pearl ring. An old amber ring can become a stylish brooch. I love redesigning sentimental pieces to preserve their emotional value while adapting them to modern tastes. Seeing the joy in my customers’ eyes when their cherished jewelry gets a new life is deeply rewarding.
You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?
Good design doesn’t happen by chance—it evolves through thoughtful development, considering materials, technology, and individual needs. As economic and environmental concerns become more pressing, investing in well-designed products ensures longevity, functionality, and sustainability. Design should fit the individual and enhance their experience.
How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?
I love creating jewelry that invites a second look. Eve’s Weapon, for example, is a necklace made entirely of apples—though you might not notice at first glance. Glückskind® plays with baby-themed elements, sometimes hidden for a personal touch. My secret ingredient? Designs infused with emotion.
How do you decide if your design is ready?
Johannes Schreiter, a painter, designer, and glass sculptor. His ability to integrate glass design seamlessly with surrounding architecture deeply impresses me.
Who is your favourite designer?
Glückskind®—a love letter to mothers and children. These jewelry pieces feature a baby either on the ring or hidden inside. The wearer chooses how to display their love and memories—openly or discreetly. In German, Glückskind refers to a person with good fortune, a meaning that’s difficult to fully translate into English. The intimate responses I receive from clients confirm the deep emotional impact of this design.
What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?
Art should evoke deep emotions, giving a piece of the artist to the world—something that transcends language, space, and time. Design follows the principle “form follows function” but also finds its balance between artistry and practicality. Jewelry is where art meets design.

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