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I started making jewellery in Auckland in 1976 and became a partner in Fingers Contemporary Jewellery Gallery a year later. Early works in non-precious materials are held in the Museum of New Zealand, the Dowse Museum, the Auckland Museum and in private collections.
For over twenty years I've specialized in working in platinum and high carat gold using traditional techniques. My goal has been to create jewellery which is contemporary and also sufficiently enduring in its design and materials to be worn permanently and to age beautifully.
I use refined alluvial gold from the South Island's West Coast which I melt and pour into ingots, either pure or after alloying into different coloured 22ct golds. These are rolled and forged, joined if necessary by welding and fusing, then forged again to work harden them for maximum strength.
Click to view alloys
The same processes are used for platinum except that higher temperatures and greater force are required to work this most durable metal. I use it on its own, or to re-inforce the softer golds by fusing them together, for example around stones or on the edges of rings.
Stones are usually 'gypsy' set, with the stone set down into the metal which is hammered over the edges of the stone to secure it. Diamonds are selected for maximum light return, fire and scintillation and come with a certificate and laser analysis of cut.
By making each ring individually and entirely by hand myself, I'm able to custom make to individual requirements.
Fingers Contemporary Jewellery Gallery is my only retail outlet and I'm available there to discuss my work most Saturdays between 11am and 4pm. The price of each ring is dependent on the cost of the materials used, and a quote can be given when I have the details I need. Prices shown are in New Zealand dollars, include GST and are approximate.
Enquiries and orders can also be made by e mail
Payment can be made by credit card to Fingers, and all work sent by courier has a money-back guarantee. |
