In this episode, Sofie speaks with Simone Van Den Broek, a lecturer and researcher whose pioneering work explores the potential of mycelium, a living organism more commonly associated with fungi, as a material for jewellery. Through her project Living Gold, Simone challenges conventional notions of luxury and permanence, inviting us to imagine a future where materials are grown.
Together, they discuss Simone’s interdisciplinary background, her role within the Situated Art, Design and Technology research group at Avans University of Applied Sciences, and the mindset shift required to collaborate with living materials. From the benefits of bio-based design to the importance of storytelling in sustainable practice, this conversation offers a compelling glimpse into jewellery’s regenerative potential.
Tune in to discover how Simone’s research redefines beauty through ecological harmony, and why growing our own materials might be the next radical step in sustainable adornment.
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26:38
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26:38
Bamboo Gems with Dr Alvi Lufiani
In this episode, Sofie Boons speaks with Dr Alvi Lufiani, jewellery lecturer and researcher at the Indonesia Institute of the Arts in Yogyakarta. Together, they discuss the potential of bamboo as a sustainable material for jewellery, its cultural significance in Southeast Asia, and the role of craft in shaping a more environmentally conscious industry. Discover how traditional practices and innovative thinking can help redefine what sustainable jewellery could look like.
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37:11
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37:11
Sustainable Reflections with Rebecca Maddock
In this episode of the BAJ Podcast, host Dr. Sofie Boons is joined by designer, maker, and content marketer Rebecca Maddock to explore the state of sustainability in the jewellery industry.
As a member of the Fair Luxury collective and co-organiser of the recent ‘State of Sustainability in the Jewellery Industry’ conference, Rebecca shares insights into the challenges of greenwashing, the importance of transparency, and the role of storytelling in shaping a more ethical future.
Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on how jewellers can contribute to meaningful change, from grassroots practices to industry-wide initiatives.
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40:28
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40:28
Sustainable Jewellery with Vivien Johnston
What does sustainability really mean in jewellery and why does it matter now more than ever? In this episode of the BAJ Podcast, we speak with Vivien Johnston Glass, a trailblazer in ethical sourcing and expert in responsible jewellery practices. With two decades of global experience, Vivien shares her journey from launching an ethical brand to consulting across continents, helping businesses rethink how they source precious materials.
From the challenges of greenwashing to the promise of local gold mining in the UK, Vivien offers a fresh perspective on how sustainability can drive innovation, transparency, and positive change. A conversation packed with insights, practical advice, and a powerful reminder that every choice we make can shape a better future for the industry, and the planet. Tune in to discover how you can be part of the movement toward a more sustainable jewellery world.
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53:04
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53:04
Diamond Stories with Rob Bates
In this episode of the BAJ Podcast, we speak to Rob Bates, award-winning journalist and News Director at JCK, to explore the ever-evolving world of jewellery—from the rise of lab-grown diamonds and the fall of De Beers’ Lightbox, to the challenges of global news reporting and the future of journalism in the age of AI.
With over 30 years of experience covering the industry, Rob shares fascinating insights into the trends shaping jewellery today and tomorrow, while also revealing how his passion for storytelling extends into the world of diamond-themed mystery novels.
Tune in for a compelling conversation at the intersection of fact, fiction, and the future of sparkle.
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