In 2026, Contemporary Applied Arts celebrates an extraordinary milestone: Joel Degen has been a member of CAA for 60 years, having joined the organisation in 1966.
Over six decades, Degen has developed a distinctive approach to jewellery that brings together traditional precious metals, industrial materials and an inventive understanding of construction. His work is a remarkable example of the experimental, material-led practice that has long been at the heart of Contemporary Applied Arts.
Constructed, Not Sculpted
Degen's jewellery is not sculpted; it is constructed.
Using 18ct gold or titanium rivets, he assembles elements of anodised titanium, stainless steel and 18ct gold into precisely engineered forms. Brooches, necklaces, pendants, cufflinks and earrings all employ similar construction techniques, with the method of assembly playing an integral role in the character of each piece.
The combination of modern industrial methods with traditional metals gives Degen's work its distinctive identity. His designs are cool, precise and unfussy, while often incorporating unexpected or unconventional approaches to construction.
There is a subtle technological quality running throughout the work. Rivets, connections, interchangeable elements and engineered structures create a quiet dialogue with the technological world around us. Yet these are still objects intended to be worn and lived with, where technical ingenuity is balanced by a strong sense of proportion and design.
A Pioneering Approach To Jewellery
Degen's experimental approach can be seen particularly clearly in his design work for rings with interchangeable stones, including a 1976 design now held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
The drawing shows three rings designed to accommodate interchangeable coloured stones. Rather than simply illustrating the finished jewellery, Degen explains how each ring is constructed, showing the individual components and the mechanisms that hold the stones in place. Some stones lock directly onto the ring, while others are secured using hidden springs.
The drawing itself offers a fascinating insight into Degen's way of thinking. Simple coloured crayon and delicate tracing paper are used to work through the construction, giving us a glimpse into the process behind the finished object.
It is this combination of design, engineering and craftsmanship that makes Degen's work so enduring. The jewellery is visually restrained, but closer inspection reveals considerable technical thought and invention.
Six Decades Of Influence
Degen's contribution to contemporary jewellery extends beyond his own practice. Throughout his career, he has also taught and influenced other successful jewellers, including Rie Taniguchi and Michael Carberry, who are themselves members of Contemporary Applied Arts.
This passing of knowledge from one generation to another is an important part of CAA's history. Since joining in 1966, Degen has remained part of a community of makers, sharing in the organisation's long-standing commitment to experimentation, craftsmanship and the exploration of materials.
His work has been exhibited widely and is held in significant museum and institutional collections, including Goldsmiths' Hall and the National Gallery of Victoria in Australia, as well as collections around the world.
Celebrating 60 Years With CAA
Joel Degen's 60 years as a CAA member are more than an impressive milestone. They represent six decades of creative practice, experimentation and contribution to the wider craft community.
His jewellery continues to demonstrate just how innovative contemporary jewellery can be when traditional materials are approached in unexpected ways. From the precision of a titanium rivet to the warmth of 18ct gold, every element contributes to a carefully constructed whole.
At Contemporary Applied Arts, we are proud to celebrate Joel Degen's remarkable 60-year association with CAA and his enduring contribution to contemporary jewellery.
Discover Joel Degen's work at Contemporary Applied Arts and explore the work of the makers who continue to push the boundaries of material, technique and design.