Favourite gemstone:Erongo tourmaline from Namibia due to the fusion of colours that seamlessly change and transition through the gem, and Argyle pink diamonds! The more I have worked with them over the years, the greater my appreciation of their colour spectrum. It never ceases to amaze! Favourite metal:18-carat yellow gold because I don’t have to rhodium-plate it. It’s such a refreshing change too as the decade has been dominated by white metals. Favourite tool:Foredom Brushless Micromotor. I have used it nearly every day for 14 years and have only ever had to replace one collet! Best new tool discovery:My 65mm saw frame with polishing ribbons. With the world of CAD today there really aren’t too many places you can’t polish with this bad boy. Best part of job:Being able to sit with a customer, source and select the gemstones with them, and then turn the two-dimensional design into a 3D art piece to be adored – and adorned – for generations to come. Worst part of job:Not having a gold and diamond mine in my backyard to make everything less expensive to meet customer’s expectations! Also, having to re-educate customers who have been blatantly misinformed by poorly-trained sales staff. Best tip from a jeweller:At the end of the day, jewellery is the winner! Best tip to a jeweller:It’s not too late to learn to lay bricks! Biggest health concern on the bench:The average life expectancy of a jeweller in the early 1900s was 42, I’m on borrowed time daily. Love jewellery because: Every day is different, every customer is unique, and every piece has its own unique challenges. Plus, the amazing friends I have made in the industry over the years and the fact my work will stay ‘alive’ long after I am gone. |