FAVOURITE GEMSTONE: Australian sapphires. I recently visited the Australian gemfields and it was so amazing to see where the sapphires come from. Peter Brown from Rubyvale Gem Gallery and his family gave me a wonderful insight into the whole process, from mine to beautifully cut gemstone, and I now have an even greater appreciation for Australian sapphires. FAVOURITE METAL: Platinum; I just love that it takes such extreme temperatures to solder and fuse. FAVOURITE TOOL: My favourite tools are the ones that were given to me by special people in my life, so when I use the tool I always think of them. They are mostly engraved saying who they are from. BEST NEW TOOL DISCOVERY: Lindsay graver- sharpening templates. They just make the most crisp surfaces on gravers. BEST PART OF THE JOB: I love making Mokume Gane billets from scratch – seeing the different patterns that come out is always exciting. I also love that every day is different, with different pieces to work on, and we get to see some amazing pieces of jewellery. WORST PART OF THE JOB: Repairing pieces of jewellery that are mass-produced and poorly made that just fall apart. BEST TIP FROM A JEWELLER: You are only as good as the last job you do, so do every job to a high standard. BEST TIP TO A JEWELLER: Don’t stop exploring the many interesting areas of our trade. BIGGEST HEALTH CONCERN ON THE BENCH: Breathing in dust and chemicals and keeping active outside of work, as we sit most of the day. LOVE JEWELLERY BECAUSE: I love creating unique pieces and making designs come to life. Even repairing jewellery can feel so satisfying. |