Is 29 February a special day for you?

The organisers of Desire, the exciting jewellery and silversmithing show being held at Richmond Upon Thames from 1-2 March 2008, are offering free admittance to anyone visiting this year who can prove that their birthday falls on 29 February or to any couple who celebrate their wedding anniversary on this day (proof required).

This year, birthdays and anniversaries can be celebrated on the correct day which leaves the weekend free to visit Desire and treat yourself to some of the beautiful items for sale at this event. In addition, as 29 February is the day when traditionally women can propose the organisers are also expecting a large number of visits from newly engaged couples wishing to purchase unusual rings in a relaxed atmosphere.

Since its launch, the show has received widespread acclaim from visitors and the media for the wide range on offer and the quality of the items available to purchase. Over 80 highly talented exhibitors, many of which have won major awards in the industry, have been selected for their superb and innovative craftsmanship from hundreds who applied. All exhibitors are professional designer craftsmen who have designed and made the work themselves and have a genuine passion for the work that they create. Because of the prestige of the event, the makers choose Desire to launch their stunning new collections.

Although many of the jewellers and silversmiths have also exhibited at the prestigious Goldsmiths’ Fair, Desire also includes work from contemporary jewellers working in media other than the more traditional gold, silver and platinum meaning the show has a much broader appeal.

Included this year is jewellery incorporating paper, copper, vegetable ivory, glass, Perspex, ribbon, rubber and recycled fabric as well as some bold and colourful acrylic jewellery by Gail Klevan whose earrings were worn by Emma Thompson in Love Actually.

Amongst the jewellers incorporating gemstones in their work this year is Emma Chapman whose exotic designer gemstone work features at London Fashion Week. Some of the exhibitors have also incorporated a range of unusual watches into their work.

Silversmiths at the event this year include Barry Thomas whose recent clients include The Worshipful Company of Clockmakers, Southwark Cathedral and the Rabinovitch Collection in the Victoria & Albert Museum in London and Brett Payne, one of the UK's leading designers of contemporary jewellery and silverware and well-known throughout the world for his unusual candlesticks.

New to the event this year are Rebecca Joselyn whose range of quirky contemporary silverware objects show her interest in the unwanted throwaway packaging with its negative impact on our environment and silversmith, Olivia Lowe with her beautiful sculptural vases that create an exciting, contemporary focal point.

There really is something for everyone at this event with the huge variety of stylish, unusual and original designs across a wide price range from just a few pounds to many thousands. Choose from a range of contemporary designers who are not afraid to push the boundaries of what is expected, to those who create classic pieces that will not date.

Anyone celebrating a special occasion – maybe a birthday or anniversary - may also like to speak to many of the makers about commissioning bespoke pieces of jewellery or silverware. A number of visitors to the show in 2007 had wedding, engagement or eternity rings created especially for them by various exhibitors.

This year exhibitor, Stitch and Silver, offers beautiful show stopping customised encased necklaces for your wedding day where family trinkets and fabric from your dress are encased for a truly unique piece of jewellery. How much more will a piece mean if you are able to discuss your ideas direct with the designer maker and listen to what inspires them in their work? The item bought will be a truly personal piece and the quality better than much of the jewellery offered elsewhere.

Many of the award-winning designers present at the event sell their work almost solely by word of mouth and have regular customers and collectors. This is an opportunity for the public to meet these makers and see an accessible alternative to the mass-produced items offered for sale on the high street, where the quotes of Gerald Ratner still echo. Indulge yourself and visit Desire.

The show previews on the evening of Friday 29 February – the day when traditionally women have been able to propose! The private view which is by invitation only is attended by selected buyers, collectors and celebrities from around the world who are able to view the collections before the show opens to the public at the weekend.

Opening times on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 March are 10 am – 5 pm. Admission is £4.00. For further information visit Craftinfocus.com.

Venue: Queen Charlotte Hall, Parkshot, Richmond upon Thames, TW9 2RE