New home for Dundee jeweller who plans to create training school

Karen said she wants to set up the training school because she found learning in the trade quite hostile.

By Gavin Harper

November 1 2023, 5:55am

Karen Smith, who runs Metallium Jewellery. Image: Metallium Jewellery.

A Dundee businesswoman who has ambitions of creating her own jewellery school has taken the first step in making that dream a reality.

Karen Smith has run Metallium Jewellery from her home studio since starting it in 2014.

She runs a number of training courses, and hopes one day to create a jewellery school where she will eventually employ staff and offer classes from a range of experts.

New home for Dundee jewellery business

The business recently moved into the small business hub, Creative Studios, at Dundee’s Dryburgh Industrial Estate.

She said the time was right to move into new premises.

Karen, who worked for several jewellers before launching her own business, said: “Having been self-employed now for almost 10 years it felt like the time was right.

“Over the years I have taught various jewellery making classes both from my home studio and also from Dundee and Angus College.”

Karen Smith previously operated from a workshop at her home.

Karen said part of her plan is to pass on all her experience.

She said this was not something afforded to her during her own training. Karen said she found learning in the trade at times quite hostile.

As a result, she’s keen to create a positive environment for others to learn.

She said: “I have more than 20 years of experience as a jeweller and am passionate about passing on my skills.

“I love teaching and it’s always been my passion one day to have my own jewellery school. I see this as a step in the right direction towards my dream.”