The act of decorating the human frame to accent its grace, strength, beauty and presence has its roots in all ancient societies and civilizations. Visually distinctive patterns of body piercing, scarification and tattoos served as early expressions of personal or social identities. Ornaments were created using materials from the immediate environment. Over time jewellery not only assumed the role of serving as a status symbol but also acquired magical, spiritual, ceremonial and sentimental significance.

Jewellery in Pakistan is a true mirror of its heritage, as it reflects centuries of tradition, inventive craftsmanship and varied design sensibilities. Diverse influences have led to the evolution of indigenous forms of immense range and impeccable skill. The first of its kind in the country, the Department of Jewellery Design at BNU is a platform for integrating contemporary design sensibilities with traditional aesthetic values. We provide a space for highly skilled craftswo/men, designers and new entrants who aspire to become professional jewellery makers and designers. The programme aims to educate and train students in both creative and technical areas to produce jewellery of quality for the domestic as well as the international market.

Students are introduced to different ways of approaching, perceiving and appreciating jewellery. This is achieved through the use of materials and techniques along with the development of innovative ideas and concepts. The courses give a sound working knowledge of jewellery making tools, metal processes and methods of fabrication through creative design exercises in traditional and non-traditional forms. Students will produce a wearable and non-wearable portfolio of jewellery. To complement the practical work, there will be seminars on the historical, cultural and social contexts of traditional and contemporary jewellery. Field trips to galleries, museums, workshops and the market acquaint students with skills in researching and sourcing information. They will also develop a vocabulary of both traditional and modern terminology. The ability to reflect, analyze, review and critique work will ultimately lead to developing finished products for specific markets and collections. Graduates of the course may pursue careers as jewellery designers in fashion or theatre, as producers or retailers, teachers, entrepreneurs and consultants.