Melbourne has long been known as a city with a rich history of craftsmanship, so it’s no surprise that Melbourne is known for its bespoke and custom jewellery trade. Melbourne hosts a thriving port that continues to be used as a major export centre for gems mined throughout Australia.
But as we know, not all the gems are exported. In fact, many of the best gems are bought by local craftsmen to be used as the centrepiece of distinctive jewellery designs. Similarly, gems are also imported and the finest ended up in Melbourne’s best jewellery shops.
Before the advent of modern media, those who lived near the Melbourne port were privy to the latest in fashion and design ideas as the wealthy passengers disembarked. This led to a flourishing culture of local craftsmen, who reproduced the world’s newest designs while contributing to the international scene by exporting their own custom jewellery from Melbourne.
Pride in Their Work
A key aspect of the best jewellery craftsmanship is taking pride in one’s work. Creating custom pieces such as rings, pendants, and earrings takes time and dedication. Each gem is completely unique and unlike any other, and for a piece to be masterful, the jewellery must match the stone.
This means that a skilled artisan jeweller must carefully examine each gem and decide not only how to cut it, but where and how to set it into a specific piece. Meticulousness is the name of the game, as every gem placed must either shimmer as intended or mute itself so as not to overwhelm the centrepiece gem of the design.
An excellent place to see some of the world’s finest jewellery is The National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne. It houses a notable collection of both past and present high points in the history of Melbourne’s jewellery scene. Many of the best pieces of jewellery have gone up in value, thanks to the scarcity of pieces from long-gone craftsmen of the past.
Generations of Artisans
Melbourne has a thriving artisan scene and its culture of design and artistry that stretches back to the early 20th century. This means that unique and avant-garde is a typical characteristic of their jewellery aesthetic, rather than the exception. This creativity has been passed down through generations, while also attracting the attention of new jewellers and craftsmen drawn to the trade by its spirited and diverse community.
Wrapping Up
Whether it’s the best of Australia’s designer earrings or the latest in pendant design, Melbourne’s generational custom jewellery scene uses age-old techniques passed down to a youthful generation and joins them with the latest technologies, such as laser cutting, engraving, and 3D printing. This will continue to contribute to Melbourne’s one-of-a-kind and lively custom jewellery culture, and it’s exciting to see what the future holds for Melbourne’s best jewellers.
To explore all of the distinctive artistry of Melbourne’s jewellery scene, visit us today at Holloway Diamonds. We offer both timeless and bold pieces sure to catch your eye!