Materials
When crafting jewellery & sculpture I use ethically sourced materials from local suppliers here in Melbourne & throughout Australia.
Precious Metals
In my jewellery making, I work with platinum, gold and silver—metals chosen for their beauty, strength and ability to be finely handcrafted. Each metal brings its own special and unique attributes to play wether its the warmth and malleability of yellow gold, the durability and weight of platinum or the versatility of silver.
I also offer the option to recycle clients’ existing precious metals, transforming old or sentimental jewellery into new, custom-made pieces. It’s a meaningful and sustainable way to give these metals a fresh chapter while preserving their personal value.
Bronze & Brass
As a jeweller of 34 years I’m drawn to brass and bronze in my small sculptural works for their familiar feel and responsiveness to fine detail—much like the precious metals I use in jewellery. These materials allow me to scale up my designs while still working with techniques I know intimately, such as wax carving, lost wax casting, and experimenting with patination. Brass and bronze allow me to bring scale, texture, colour and definition in a familiar medium. They bridge the gap between wearable and sculptural, allowing me to explore form and surface in a more expressive, open-ended way.
Gemstones
I have a deep love for coloured gemstones—they play a central role in my jewellery because of their individuality and striking beauty. I’m especially drawn to vibrant hues, unusual cuts, and rare finds, which I believe are the most powerful way to create truly distinctive pieces. Over time, sourcing gemstones has become a real passion and I’m always excited to share my personal collection with clients. Australian gems such as sapphire, zircon and emerald feature prominently in my work, thanks to strong relationships with trusted local dealers here in Melbourne and around the country. I’m constantly on the hunt for something special!
Earth-formed Mineral Sculpture
In recent years, I’ve started using mineral specimens as natural sculptures and statement pieces within my home. There’s no rival to the forms created by nature—they’re endlessly inspiring. This led me to curate a growing collection sourced through local and interstate gem clubs, as well as international dealers, each piece chosen for its raw beauty and unique character. Incorporating these minerals into my sculptural work, alongside bronze and brass, has allowed me to evolve my jewellery practice into the world of interior objects—bringing the same level of craftsmanship and intention into spaces beyond the body.
Process
Function and Design
My design process often begins with a gemstone—a striking colour, an unusual cut, or a rare find that sparks an idea. From there, the piece begins to take shape in a way that feels organic and intuitive. I don't always start with rigid sketches or fixed plans; instead, I allow the materials to guide the design, letting the natural beauty of the stone lead the way. This fluid approach keeps the creative process fresh and allows each piece to evolve into something truly one of a kind. Functionality is always at the heart of what I do. Jewellery needs to be wearable, comfortable, and suited to everyday life—but that doesn’t mean it has to be predictable. I describe my style as modern with a twist: classic forms with unexpected details, where the gemstone is often the focal point. The result is jewellery that feels timeless but still has a strong sense of individuality and character.
Remodelling Pre-Loved Pieces
Jewellery holds deep, sentimental value—whether it’s an inherited ring from an aunt or a pendant tied to a special moment, these pieces carry memories every time they’re worn. But as styles change and wearability becomes an issue, they can end up tucked away and forgotten. Remodelling allows you to preserve the emotional connection by reusing the original metals and gemstones, while creating something new and meaningful for the next generation. Recycling gold not only saves on cost but is also a more sustainable choice. So instead of leaving a treasured piece in the bedside drawer, why not give it a fresh start as something uniquely yours?
Contemporary & Traditional Methods
Jewellery making is a craft deeply rooted in tradition, with many techniques passed down through generations of apprenticeships. Some of the tools on our benches have been used for decades—each with a specific purpose and a story of its own. There’s always something new to learn, and these days, social media has made it possible to pick up tips and tricks during a quick tea break.
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That said, the trade hasn’t stood still. With innovations like bench-mounted welders designed specifically for fine jewellery and the rise of CAD technology, the creative possibilities have expanded dramatically. For me, it’s all about blending the best of both worlds—honouring traditional craftsmanship while embracing the new tools that push the boundaries of what we can create.
Metalworking
Jewellery and sculpture often share the same core techniques. Methods like lost wax casting (a process that’s been used for thousands of years and is still a staple in modern jewellery making), forging, soldering, riveting, and piercing are all part of the craft.
Precious metals are especially suited to jewellery because of their malleability, strength, and ability to take on a high polish or textured finish. In sculpture, materials like bronze and brass are valued for their casting qualities, warm tones, and the rich patinas they develop over time. One of the beautiful things about working with gold & platinum is its ability to be melted down and reimagined—giving old pieces new life while keeping their story alive.
