My Bench: Tammy Keers

SIGNATURE PIECE:

(AMELIA)
 

Winner of Jeweller of the Year category and Diamond Category at the 2023 JAA Australasian Jewellery Design Awards. Handmade in 18-carat white gold, an Art Deco Wing Insignia characterises a unique tribute to Aviation Pioneer – Amelia Earhart, the first woman to fly non-stop solo across the Atlantic Ocean. More than 350 hours of traditional goldsmithing expertise provided an assurance of fine quality and longevity.

FAVOURITE GEMSTONE: Alexandrite, Tsavorite Garnet, and Sapphire.

FAVOURITE METAL: 18-carat gold.

FAVOURITE TOOL: Saw Frame and Rolling Mill.

BEST NEW TOOL DISCOVERY: Magnifying Loupe – because I can’t see anymore!

BEST PART OF THE JOB: Creativity – designing and making unique family heirloom pieces is super rewarding.

WORST PART OF THE JOB: I started my career on the bench and, after 30 years, have expanded my business to the point where, unfortunately, I don’t get to spend as much time hand-making, which I miss.

BEST TIP FROM A JEWELLER: You can always learn something. You never know it all in this trade.

BEST TIP TO A JEWELLER: There is always more than one way to make something. Work to your strengths when putting something together.

BIGGEST HEALTH CONCERN ON THE BENCH: Losing my vision as I get older – it’s frustrating!

LOVE JEWELLERY BECAUSE: It’s rewarding making beautiful pieces with unlimited opportunities and working with mother nature’s finest!