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All Rings

Individually handmade, our collections of unusual rings are designed for both everyday wear and special occasions. With a wide selection of rings to choose from, its easy to find the perfect ring to suit your style.

Our Heritage

A Legacy of Craftsmanship Since the 1920s

From the beginning, we've distinguished ourselves with over a century of handmade craftsmanship in the South East of England. Our jewellery blends innovative design with skilled artistry, featuring organic curves and intricate patterns that reflect our deep commitment to excellence.

The Pruden and Smith Story

Enduring craftsmanship, artistic innovation, and a commitment to excellence that spans generations

From Dunstan Pruden's humble beginnings in the 1920s, honing his skills at the Central School of Arts & Crafts, to the establishment of Pruden and Smith by Anton and Rebecca in 1988, our journey is a testament to the power of tradition and modern design. As Freemen of the Goldsmiths' Company, Anton and Rebecca continue to uphold this rich legacy, blending their expertise to create jewellery that resonates with timeless elegance and contemporary flair. Join us as we explore the milestones that have shaped our heritage and defined our place in the world of luxury jewellery.

1920

The Beginnings

Dunstan Pruden began his journey at the Central School of Arts & Crafts, choosing it over the Royal College of Art. He honed his craft as an assistant to a London-based goldsmith, laying the groundwork for a remarkable career.

Dunstans old college
1923

The Exeter College Commission

In 1923, Dunstan received a significant commission from the Rector of Exeter College, Oxford, to create a silver altar cross. This project, for which he earned £250, was pivotal in establishing his public reputation as a master goldsmith.

Dunstan making a chalice
1932

The Move to Ditchling

Dunstan Pruden relocated to Ditchling in 1932, becoming a member of the Craft Guild of St Joseph and St Dominic. The following year, his book Silversmithing was published by St Dominic’s Press, with illustrations by Philip Hagreen. This publication secured him a teaching position at Brighton Art College, where he taught for over thirty years, shaping the future of silversmithing.

Old Ditchling
1934

Innovation in Silversmithing

In 1934, Pruden took charge of silversmithing at Brighton School of Art, mentoring students such as Gerald Benney RDI, Michael Murray, and Anthony Elson. Pruden’s most original contribution was his method of creating figurative work directly in silver, a technique that required more thought, time, and skill than traditional methods, making his work truly unique.

School of art and Science in Brighton
1959

A Career's Pinnacle

The highlight of Pruden's career came in 1959 with the creation of a 22ct gold chalice for the Metropolitan Cathedral in Liverpool, a masterpiece that remains a testament to his extraordinary talent.

22ct gold chalice
1975

 A New Generation

Inspired by Dunstan, Anton Pruden trained as a silversmith in Gloucestershire under his aunt and uncle, Angela and Philip Lowery, while Rebecca Smith, having studied Art and Design with Philip and Angela as a teenager went on to study fine art at Farnham Art College. Their paths crossed in the workshop, and they soon realised how their skills complemented each other, leading to the creation of Pruden and Smith, a brand that combined a rich history of goldsmithing with innovative design.

Anton Pruden learning silversmithing
1988

The Founding of Pruden and Smith

Anton and Rebecca established Pruden and Smith, merging their expertise to create a brand that honours traditional craftsmanship while embracing contemporary design. They quickly earned a reputation for their skill, taking on commissions.

Rebecca at the bench
1990

Establishing a Presence in Ditchling

The duo opened their workshop in Ditchling at the Turner Dumbrell workshops, where they began to build their reputation.

Old pruden and smith workshop
1994

Ampleforth Abbey Altar Set

Rebecca and Anton created a four-piece altar set for Ampleforth Abbey, including three 2-litre silver jugs and a chalice, all hand-chased with a vine leaf motif. This collaboration showcased Rebecca’s design and chasing skills alongside Anton’s silversmithing.

Silver jug commision
1995

Expanding Internationally

Rebecca’s range of silverware, designed from 1988, was sold through prestigious outlets like Mappin & Webb and exhibited in galleries across America and Japan. Pruden and Smith toured with the Crafts Council to major trade fairs in San Francisco, New York, and London, and exhibited at Goldsmiths Fair gaining international recognition.

Silverware set
1999

A Presidential Commission

Rebecca and Anton were commissioned to create the Mace and Chain of Office for the incoming president of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York, a solid gold piece presented by Hillary Clinton. This project further solidified their reputation for excellence.

A Presidential Commission
2000

 A Shift to Jewellery

Entering the new millennium, Anton and Rebecca shifted their focus to include jewellery, incorporating their silversmithing skills into innovative jewellery designs.

Nugget Rings
2001

Freemen of the Goldsmiths' Company

Both Rebecca and Anton Pruden were honoured as Freemen of the Goldsmiths' Company.

goldsmiths guild certificate
2002

Ecclesiastical Commissions

The team designed and crafted altar vessels for Ely Cathedral and a solid silver thurible for Portsmouth Cathedral, with Rebecca drawing inspiration from architectural details to create pieces that harmonised with their sacred surroundings.

Five Silver Chalices
2007

A New Chapter in Ditchling

Pruden and Smith moved their gallery and workshop to the village centre, occupying the historic building that once housed St Dominic’s Press. This move marked a new chapter in the brand’s growth.

The new pruden and smith team
2009

Worth Abbey Chalices and Ciboria

Rebecca designed a set of chalices and ciboria for Worth Abbey, contributing to the aesthetics of architect Francis Pollen’s contemporary round church. Notably, this project was carried out alongside a furniture commission by Thomas Heatherwick. The sculptural altar set we created was a significant addition to the abbey.

worth abbey chalices
2010

Embracing Digital and Expanding Collections

In 2010, Pruden and Smith launched their first website, showcasing their luxury jewellery designs and expanding into bespoke services. Alongside this digital leap, they introduced unique jewellery collections marked by their distinctive artistic flair.

polishing ring at motor
2017

Growth and Recognition

The team welcomed Simon, a new head goldsmith, and who worked with Rebecca to expand their luxury jewellery collections. Pruden and Smith gained recognition in the South of England and won the Muddy Stilettos Award for Best Jewellery Store in the county.

2022

Expanding in Ditchling

In 2022, Pruden and Smith expanded their Ditchling store and Victorian workshop, growing their team to meet increasing demand as their reputation continued to flourish.

the team at pruden and smith
2024

 A Global Presence

By 2024, Pruden and Smith had grown their online business, becoming a reputable luxury jewellery brand in the UK. Their designs were featured in Vogue, and they began shipping worldwide, offering a new experience through their online store and online design appointments. All work lovingly handmade in their Ditchling Workshop

Water bubble ring with jeweler

The Experience

Visit us in Ditchling and immerse yourself in our heritage firsthand
Ditchling is a village where tradition and elegance meet. From its rich artistic heritage to world-renowned sparkling wines and stunning English landscapes. Whether you're visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, let this charming village captivate you.
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jeweller at the bench holding ring

Book an Appointment

From workshop tours to bespoke appointments

Start your Pruden and Smith journey today – whether you're looking for some advice, are ready to speak to our luxury jewellery designer, Rebecca, or simply want to visit our gallery and workshop – we look forward to hearing from you.

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