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Ethical handmade treasure maker
Nicole Viney is a qualified manufacturing jeweller specialising in handmade, one-off Tasmanian pieces. Working from her studio in Ulverstone on the northern coastline, Nicole works with some of the island’s finest gemstones as well as rare and natural stones from all over the world. This passionate local works with you to create a bespoke piece – whether that be incorporating a Tasmanian sapphire into an engagement ring or a custom bracelet re-created from a family heirloom. In conversation with Nicole When did your jewellery career begin and what led you to creating bespoke Tasmanian jewellery? I started my career as an apprentice with Master Jeweller Rob Mitchell in 2006. I had children and a brief time away from the bench before returning to the manufacturing scene. I worked from home with baby on back and all! In 2017, I got the opportunity to open a pop-up shop in Ulverstone and … it just never closed! I discovered there was a gap in the market. People wanted to use their sentimental pieces to create something new and contemporary. In 2022, I moved into my vibrant, ethereal store in Ulverstone. What are your favourite Tasmanian gemstones to work with? Over the years I have developed strong relationships with small-scale businesses that fossick Tasmanian stones and/or cut them. Tasmanian sapphires are certainly the favourite of the NVJ team for their connection to the Tasmanian environment, their hard-wearing ability, as well as the royal blues that are unlike any other Australian sapphire. How are you inspired by the landscape of the north-west? I take inspiration from the textures of the landscape and form these into reflections in my jewellery. Fluid textures are reminiscent of the ocean, and rougher, bark-like textures remind me of our mountainous forested areas. Tell us about your workshops. What can someone expect from working with you to create their own special piece? I’ll guide you through the creative process and basic skills. You can select stones from our collection. Most importantly, you’ll learn to appreciate the time and skills involved in making bespoke pieces, and a few weeks later get to bring home a piece that you've made with your own hands and soul. There is a freedom of spirit that is reflected in Nicole’s work. Each individual piece is designed to suit the wearer’s personal style. Nicole’s pieces often redefine what modern wearable jewellery can be. The Venus Collection This gorgeous range is a community project that celebrates the seashells of Tasmania, which are hand collected by friends, family and clients from across the island. Nicole has lovingly cast the finds in nine carat gold, sterling silver and premium recycled materials. The pieces of the Venus Collection also feature Tasmanian and Australian gemstones as well as gorgeous freshwater pearls. From mini Cowrie stud earrings to a South Sea Keshi pearl ring to rose gold abalone shell necklaces in various sizes, this collection is made for the lovers of Tasmania’s coastline. The Homage Collection Nicole draws inspiration from the peaks and valleys of Tasmania’s rugged landscape. Each piece is crafted with fine Tasmanian gemstones and set in solid gold or sterling silver. The Chains T-Bar Bracelet is inspired by the chains required to climb the upper reaches of Cradle Mountain. The rose, yellow gold or sterling silver Tassie Homage Pendant follows the topographical features of the peaks and troughs of the landscape. 91 Reibey Street, Ulverstone nicolevineyjewellery.com.au 0417 624 418 [email protected] Open Tuesday – Friday 10.00am – 5.00pm Saturday 10.00am – 1.00pm |