We aim to celebrate individuality through creating jewellery that speaks to personal expression and authenticity. Cox & Power’s evolution has been shaped by a multitude of perspectives, establishing a legacy where collaboration and creative dialogue remain central to our work. Today, our team thrives through the combined talents of individuals, each contributing essential skills that enrich our creative process. This wealth of viewpoints translates into jewellery that resonates widely, connecting meaningfully with the unique individuals who wear them.
For International Women’s Day we’ve chosen to highlight a few of the talented individuals who contribute to Cox & Power’s success today, by asking them to think about what IWD means to them. We believe it is important for everyone, regardless of gender, to think about the position women hold in society today.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
For me, it’s an opportunity to recognise both the inequalities and achievements surrounding women’s rights, from global and individual perspectives. When we focus and acknowledge these things we all benefit because it helps us look at the wider context of society. It’s particularly relevant when thinking about countries where women’s rights have been eroded rather than improved in recent years.
Who is a woman that inspires you?
The one person I always think of is Harriet Tubman. She not only brought people to freedom but spent her entire life campaigning and fighting for equality across the board. She was 91 when she died and never tired of that work. I think one can’t fail to be inspired by somebody who dedicates their life to making the world a better place by lifting people up.
Thinking about the creative industry, what achievements have you seen in terms of gender equality and where do you think there are still improvements to be made?
My work life has spanned over 35 years, and many challenges from then persist now. People still look to the man in the room when they want to speak to the person in charge, which I wouldn’t have expected to see in 2025.
At Cox & Power, we’ve increasingly focused on issues relating to women, particularly with responsible sourcing of our gold and gemstones and campaigning to make a more equitable and ethical jewellery industry. It’s not a coincidence that many of the projects we connect with are women-led. Sometimes I think it’s because women are less afraid of change or perhaps have less to lose. The Moyo Gemstones project with the Tanzania Women Miners Association is a great example of empowerment through organisation and education. These initiatives don’t just benefit women—they benefit everybody. When women lead positive change, it lifts everyone up.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
To me, International Women’s Day is a celebration of all women from all aspects of society. It’s an opportunity to recognise women for their achievements, but also an occasion to discuss the issues still relevant today in terms of gender equality, such as reproductive rights and violence and abuse against women.
Who is a woman that inspires you?
Aside from working at Cox & Power, I have a studio based at Cockpit Studios Deptford where I make vessels and sculptural pieces out of wood. I’m fortunate to have Eleanor Lakelin as a studio neighbour, who is a fellow sculptor in wood. Eleanor’s beautifully sculptured pieces are simply amazing, it’s been an honour to see how she’s pushed the limits of wood in terms of scale and skill as well as find so much success in a male dominated field.
Thinking about the creative industry, what achievements have you seen in terms of gender equality and where do you think there are still improvements to be made?
There has been significant progress for women in the creative industry, particularly in the jewellery sector. However, the jewellery industry continues to face challenges regarding diverse representation at leadership levels, socioeconomic barriers which limit entry for talent from diverse backgrounds, and where traditional gender roles still influence customer perceptions.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
It’s an important opportunity to highlight inspirational women worldwide. While we see more visible gender equality today, we still need to uplift unheard voices. I’m particularly concerned about recent attacks on women’s reproductive rights. I no longer take the progress my mother’s generation made for granted.
Who is a woman that inspires you?
The ‘We Can Do Hard Things’ podcast with Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle inspires me through their courageous discussions on everything from personal life to societal justice. I’ve experienced real epiphany moments listening to them, things I feel should have been obvious to me suddenly appearing crystal clear, and I appreciate their refreshing honesty and how they empower each other to be braver.
Thinking about the creative industry, what achievements have you seen in terms of gender equality and where do you think there are still improvements to be made?
Women are better represented in the jewellery field now, especially in artisan jewellery where I work, though traditional suppliers remain male-dominated. It’s inspiring to see Annie Warburton appointed as Clerk and CEO at The Goldsmiths’ Company—after 697 years! However, our industry lacks diversity, so most gender equality progress we’re seeing is predominantly white. Examining this issue is crucial if we want to make society fairer for all.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
International Women’s Day reminds us that the journey towards gender equality continues. The feminist movement didn’t end in 1973… We must acknowledge the issues women face both in the UK and globally, whilst ensuring transgender women and gender non-conforming individuals are included in these conversations, as they experience significant gender-based discrimination and violence as well.
Who is a woman that inspires you?
I recently saw Big Joanie, a black feminist punk band, perform at an International Women’s Day event. They’re keeping the riot-grrrl spirit alive in the 21st century! During the show, Estella Adeyeri spoke about her work with Good Night Out, which advocates for safety measures and accountability in cultural spaces so everyone can truly enjoy themselves.
Thinking about the creative industry, what achievements have you seen in terms of gender equality and where do you think there are still improvements to be made?
I’m grateful to work in an industry that’s more progressive than most, with many brilliant women succeeding and advocating for change. Including diverse viewpoints fuels creativity by challenging us to think differently. However, many women still hesitate to step into the spotlight due to fear of intense scrutiny. Society’s tendency to analyse everything from our appearance to our creative work often leads us to internalise this critical lens, holding us back from celebrating our achievements.
As we reflect on the importance of gender equality, we want to highlight several organisations doing vital work to create a more just and equitable society:
By supporting these organisations, we can make a difference not just on International Women’s Day, but every day of the year.
Cox & Power
10-12 Chiltern Street
London W1U 7PX
proud to work with Fairtrade Gold
and Fairmined Gold
Cox & Power
10-12 Chiltern Street
London W1U 7PX
020 7935 3530
marylebone@coxandpower.com
