My Bench: David Murphy

DAVID MURPHY

Works at: David Murphy Jewellers

Age: 57

Years in trade: 40 years

Training: Apprenticeship

Other qualifications: Ringcraft Jewellers in 1978.

Favourite gemstone:

Ceylon sapphire. Blue is my favourite colour and these stones come in a great range of blue.

Favourite metal:

Wax can create a lot of pieces in all shapes and sizes. It is easy to alter if you make a mistake and there is not a lot of waste. I also love 18-carat yellow gold. It is the easiest metal of all for cleaning after soldering and polishing.

Favourite tool:

A saw frame; it can take a lot of metal in one go. I always loved saw piercing and still have a piece I did in TAFE from over 38 years ago.

Best part of job:

Seeing the finished piece all polished up ready to go, then the reaction of the customer when they collect it.

Best tip from a jeweller:

Watch and learn what you’re being taught and try to replicate it.

Best tip to a jeweller:

Be patient and listen, believe in your ability and never be afraid to learn or try something new.

Biggest health concern on the bench:

That my eyes will still able to stand up to the rigours of the trade. I have to focus for long periods of time.

Love jewellery because:

There so many facets to it and every jeweller has their own style and understanding of it.

My bench is always:

Messy; I try to clean at least two or three times a year, then promise myself to keep it that way.