Zoe Pook Jewellery specialise in creating ethical and bespoke wedding and engagement rings that are truly stunning. Using conflict-free diamonds, precious gems and recycled or Fairtrade Gold, these quality pieces are one of a kind and a joy to design, according to Zoe and her team. Below, we chat to Zoe about the design process, what she loves about wedding jewellery, and the styles her clients tend to gravitate towards.

Where are you based?
I have two studios, one in Pitt Street in Sydney and one in my hometown of Cobargo on the NSW south coast.

Do you have a showroom?
Yes, in both places.

What about an online store?
Yes, we are currently expanding our website to include all the new pieces we have, watch this space 🙂

How long have you been a jeweller?
About 15 years now. I started when I was pregnant with my first daughter – not an ideal time to start a small business!

What do you love about making wedding jewellery in particular?
The stories. Each couple is unique and wants designs that suit them in whatever way that is.

What does a typical work day look like for you?
A bit of procrastination over coffee, then a glance at the jobs board spins me into work mode, some emails / designs / get to the bench / banter with my staff / lunch on the go / more of the same after lunch until I realise it’s time to go home.

What are your favourite materials to work with?
Yellow gold from a makers’ perspective, it’s lovely to work with. Rose gold for looks (but it’s a pain in the arse to work with…)

What should bridal couples bring along when designing a ring with you?
Just ideas – ideas on design / budget / if they want matching or not. Anything is fine – images / sketches / a description.

What’s the design process like?
Varied. Some people have a very clear idea others not so much, both are fine. We will chat about what you want then sketch up some designs for you to choose from. We back and forth a bit until the design is perfect and then get started making the piece.

How long does it usually take to create a ring?
From when the design is finalised, about six to eight weeks.

What have been some of your favourite designs over the past year?
A gorgeously romantic rose gold and sherry coloured zircon from Tanzania, it had a twisted band and ornate detail around the gem. A bad ass rough diamond split band with a stunning cognac coloured diamond from Australia.

Are there any particular styles your clients gravitate towards?
Different – not the run of the mill, even if it’s a slight twist on the traditional – there’s always something that makes it unique.

What styles and trends are you noticing in men’s wedding bands right now?
Colour – men are starting to discover yellow and rose gold more, they look great on the skin – so warm.

Best testimonial you’ve ever received?
“I cried when I saw the ring, you nailed it, I couldn’t be happier. I’ll be recommending you to everyone.”

Three things you love about your job?
Creativity, my staff, gems.

What sets you apart from other jewellers?
We are one of only three jewellers in all of Australia who are licensed to use Fairtrade Gold. We ask the questions from our suppliers that our clients want to know in regards to sourcing.

When you’re not making jewellery, we’d find you…
Rebuilding our farm on the south coast after the fires…

Thank you so much for sharing your story and your incredibly beautiful work with us, Zoe! To find out more about Zoe Pook Jewellery, head to the Zoe Pook Jewellery website or check them out on the Polka Dot Directory.

All images via Zoe Pook Jewellery