An introduction from Annette Piper

G'day all!

My name is Annette Piper of Annette Piper Dip. Gem. Handcrafted Jewellery and I am the token Aussie member of eSMArts! (I'm sure we'll gain a few more Australian members in time).

I am situated in rural New South Wales a couple of hundred kilometres inland from the east coast of Australia, in a long established farming and grazing area. Perched, as I am, on the Great Dividing Range, I have magnificent views of the surrounding farmland, distant hills and the wide blue Australian sky above. I live here with my aviator/farmer husband and our three children in a passive solar home that has my studio attached. Oh, there are also a few hundred head of cattle, two very lazy cats, a working dog and abundant birdlife surrounding me, but it's very quiet...really!

I have a strong background in the jewellery trade - my first full time job out of school was as a junior for a jewellery manufacturer and when I was managing a retail jewellery store in Sydney I undertook my Diploma of Gemmology. This was 20+ years ago. I continued to work in the jewellery field for a number of years before stopping due to location restraints and raising a family. When my youngest children (twins - which is why I use the plural) were two years old I really felt the need to do something for myself and soon fell into the world of gems again. This time it was by making jewellery with my beloved gemstones and pearls and I finally found my passion in life!

The popularity for my jewellery has grown over the last five years and I am now known as the "local jewellery maker". I have extended my client base into neighbouring districts as well as gaining a few loyal overseas clients. In an effort to continue this trend, I opened an Etsy store and have joined the talented group of artisans at eSMArts to help me on my journey.

I make mostly one of a kind necklaces, bracelets and earrings and a few limited edition rings and earrings. Most of my designs are simple and bold - but in a very classic and elegant way. I use only the highest quality gemstones and pearls that I source from all over the world. All items are made in my studio by me and have to get past my very high standards to ensure you get a piece of jewellery that is worthy of being worn for decades. Please visit my Etsy store and pop into my blog "Under the Loupe" to hear more of what I am up to.

I look forward to sharing my journey with you all!