About Me
PitstopX Jewellery is the trading name of me; Penny (Penelope) Akester. I live in London UK working as a freelance jewellery making teacher and jeweller. I have over 18 years experience in designing and making silver, semi precious and mixed media jewellery.
From making braided bracelets at school, I became very interested in beads, bead jewellery and beadwork as a teenager, which led me to start making bth beaded and silver jewellery. I first made silver jewellery at evening classes and summer schools, before going on to complete a degree in Jewellery and Silversmithing at Loughborough University, and I have continued to develop and expand my skills ever since.
I started teaching in 2009 and am a qualified adult education teacher, registered with the Institute for Learning. Since I qualified I have enjoyed teaching jewellery making and crafts to a variety of types of groups and classes, which led me to launch my own jewellery workshops in April 2010.
I have a keen interest in traditional and contemporary forms of body decoration and adornment, and my love of jewellery is part of this. I am fascinated by the ways we use decoration and dress to express ourselves, show allegiances, social status and aspirations, or personality.
My jewellery is often inspired by the materials I use, especially when I find beautiful unusual gems to incorporate into a piece, as well as taking inspiration from repeating patterns, both those found in nature and manmade ones, as well as my surroundings in central London, where I love the eclectic mix of architecture, cultures and people.
All jewellery for sale is designed and made by me in London UK using top quality materials, is hallmarked when appropriate and safely gift packaged.
