Meet Jeweller Jana Svabova
Floating silver textile earrings by Jana Svabova
Who are you, where do you come from ?
I’m Jana Svabova, a jeweller. I was raised in Prague, a city rich in history and art, which has had a lasting influence on me. After many years in North London, I’ve now moved south of the river, where I live and work from my studio.
Tell us about yourself and your creations.
Growing up in Prague means being surrounded by Baroque and Art Nouveau, rich in grandeur and flowing, organic lines. I was also fortunate to experience the work of artists such as Christo and Jeanne-Claude, as well as the brilliant Yinka Shonibare. Both historical and contemporary artists often incorporate textiles into their work, and this has strongly influenced how I see the world and create.
I design one-off pieces that embrace movement and make a statement, and I also offer bespoke services. Sustainability is very important to me, so I work with recycled silver and ethically sourced material.
Blister Pearl Necklace by Jana Svabova
How did you start, and why did you choose your craft?
From a very young age, I watched my mum constantly making things — clothes, handbags, jewellery. She wasn’t formally trained in any of them, yet that never stopped her from creating. Although she was a scientist by profession, her curiosity and hands-on creativity had a huge influence on me. I learned from her and adopted can-do attitude.
I eventually found myself working in the City, but during the pandemic several worlds collided, and I realised I wanted to pursue something I truly loved. I enrolled in jewellery-making courses in Hatton Garden, where I was lucky to have a brilliant tutor who encouraged us to be fearless and creative — there is always a way to realise an idea.
Today, I’ve found a job that doesn’t feel like a job at all. There’s something incredibly special about creating a piece and knowing someone chooses it because they love it and will wear it.
- An interesting thing about you that is NOT related to your jewellery.
You’ll often spot me with a glass of wine, but I have a real soft spot for beer. I grew up on lager and learned to appreciate the joys of British ales and stouts.
- what is your favourite piece of yours and why ?
I genuinely love all my creations, so choosing a favourite is tricky. But if I had to, it would be the Archaeological Silver Necklace with Pyrite Ammonite. It was one of my first bold, larger pieces and it looked stunning — a real turning point that set the tone for my statement jewellery.
Archeology by Jana Svabova @ Jedeco .
What is your best achievement?
For me, being accepted by other jewellers feels like my biggest achievement. It’s a real honour to be among such talented people, particularly when you haven’t followed a very traditional route into the craft.
What does creativity mean to you?
Creativity, for me, is about experimentation and creating things that bring joy—to yourself and to those around you. Everyone expresses creativity differently, across various crafts and industries. A scientist can be just as creative as an artist; it’s about finding new ways to explore, solve, and express ideas.
Jewellery by Jana Svabova available at JeDeCo, Oxo Tower Wharf, Unit 1.10, First floor Queenswalk Riverside, London SE1 9PH
Cady Spoon
Which is your most meaningful jewel ? (could be something from your grandma etc. ..)
I made a ring out of my grandmother’s earring which I found among my mum’s jewellery. It was missing a pair, so I turn it into something you can wear every day.
Something Old Something by Jana Svabova
Thank you Jana for taking the time to help us understand your creativity and your journey.
A selection of Jana Svabova jewellery creations is available for sale online.
