The threat of redundancy from my job as an anti-social behaviour officer in social housing, gave me the push I needed to create Nine Two Five Silver and I set up a proper studio at home and began to make jewellery to sell. Soon, I found stockists such as the beautiful Whittle and Wolf in Mapperley, and was invited to sell my jewellery at makers markets.
I wasn’t made redundant in the end, but after a while of juggling full-time work, two young kids and my business, I quit anyway and took the leap into self-employment. I haven’t looked back! I have been so grateful to see my business grow from hobby, to side hustle, to full-time dream job. That’s mostly down to the support from the people of Nottingham.
‘Why Nine Two Five?’ I hear you ask! Well, it’s not just an amazing Dolly Parton song. You may have noticed that Sterling Silver is hallmarked with the numbers 925. This is because sterling silver is an alloy made up of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals. So, Nine Two Five is a play on words with a double meaning for me. I work exclusively with sterling silver and when I named my business, it was my dream to make it my 9 to 5 job.
I create geometric, lighthearted jewellery designs that become timeless, everyday favourites. I prioritise affordability and sustainability. Using recycled sterling silver ensures that even in these tricky times, everyone can find something they love in their budget.