Jewellery Commission In Focus – Anniversary Of The Falklands War

It’s always an honour to receive a jewellery commission where its significance goes beyond the piece itself. Jewellery can have real sentimental value, and we have been delighted to have the chance to create some exceptional pieces in commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the Falklands War in 2022. These pieces serve as a moment to reflect on and remember a defining point in the history of Britain.

A Brief Reflection On The Falklands War

The Falklands War began on the 2nd of April, 1982. Argentine forces invaded the Falkland Islands, an overseas British territory in the South Atlantic, citing a sovereignty dispute. The reality behind General Galtieri’s decision to invade, however, is much more nuanced. The military junta in power in Argentina at the time believed that reclaiming the Falklands would appeal to growing nationalist sentiment and unite an extremely divided population behind the government, thereby distracting from the country’s severe economic problems.

The United Kingdom responded, launching a naval task force to reclaim the islands. Britain maintained its claim to the Falkland Islands as a crown territory, choosing to defend its interests there as a strategic position, and defending the islanders’ right to self-determination, supporting the overwhelming desire to remain a territory of the United Kingdom.

The war would last for ten weeks, wherein 907 lives were lost: 649 Argentinian, 255 British and three Falkland Islanders. The combat was intense, brutal and hard-fought. The Argentine forces were well-dug in, and extreme weather took its toll as well. The left lasting scars, both personal and political, but the story has also become one of determination, courage in the line of duty, and self-determination.

The many soldiers who gave their lives far from home to protect the freedom of the Falkland Islanders are remembered still. In 2022, the 40th anniversary of the Falklands War was a chance to reflect on a conflict that has etched itself into the national memory of the United Kingdom.

Commemorating History Through Craft

It was in the spirit of remembrance that we took to creating a selection of commissioned jewellery pieces to mark the 40th anniversary of the war. We handled every detail with care and respect, sure to treat each piece with the gravitas it deserved.

One design featured a silver oval lapel pin and matching cufflinks, featuring a simple yet striking outline map of the Falkland Islands. The numbers ‘82’ and ‘40’ were incorporated to represent both the year of the conflict (1982) and its 40th anniversary.

The next piece was a round silver disc, hand-engraved for a Royal Marine. The engraving depicted an iconic image from the conflict. Hand engraving remains one of the most personal and traditional skills in jewellery making, and it felt fitting that such a time-honoured technique was used to capture a moment of such lasting significance.

Finally, we were commissioned to duplicate the South Atlantic Medal in silver for a presentation by the South Atlantic Medal Association (SAMA). Complete with the distinctive medal ribbon, this piece was a highly accurate replication to honour the original and celebrate the bravery it symbolises.

A Jewellery Commission From Bonds The Jewellers

We’re always delighted to receive a jewellery commission at Bonds. A jewellery commission is a chance for us to turn your ideas, feelings and memories into beautiful jewellery. Whether it be for remembrance, celebratory or because you want something that shows off your own personal taste, our jewellery commission service process is simple. We’ll work closely with you to achieve the perfect result and create something that you love. To find out more, get in contact with us today.