Glaswegian Nicola Becci likes to leave a stamp on her jewellery - and it's usually her handwriting. Her fascination with handwriting and the fact that no two persons can write the same is mapped out on a lot of her work, which is often described as quirky and a wee bit 'off the wall'. Nicola's influences also include the Catholic Church, the trappings of Royalty, playing cards and chess, calligraphy, and food and confectionery, which all have a place in her jewellery collection.

Blue Peter also made an impression on Nicola's life from a very young age. "I was always making things when I was younger," says Nicola. "Blue Peter made quite an impact on me. I was always looking for washing up bottles and the empty toilet roll holders from which to make things. "Then I went to secondary school and discovered that I could draw. From then on, all I ever wanted to do was to go to art school."

Nicola progressed to Glasgow School of Art, graduating in 1992. From there, she decided to make a living doing something she loved. Her only option was to set up a business in jewellery design. Now Nicola makes jewellery from silver, gold and brass, incorporating oxidation methods and etching into her work.