JAA International Jewellery Fair was held in Glebe Island at the magnificent metropolis of Sydney, just minutes from the spectacular Darling Harbour and Anzac Bridge. With more than 180 exhibitors consisting of manufacturers, suppliers, fine jewellery brands, fashion jewellery and independent contemporary designs, there were enough variety to charm and excite visitors whilst also remaining intimately modest for the opportunity to cover every inch of the room to satisfy your jewellery thirst, ensuring that you don't miss out.
This exhibition was also an opportunity to see Australian jewellery brands I've come to admire since arriving in Australia just under a year ago. Although there is a general consensus that contemporary jewellery in Australia is better known for its earthy, symbolic and bohemian-inspired designs due to the country having one of the best weathers, natural beaches and free spirited style, it is not surprising that it has developed a cult following on an international scale. However, if you delve deeper into the Australian jewellery scene we are also seeing modern, minimalist, edgy, quirky and innovative designs emerging whilst keeping its identity.
Moving forward, I've selected five of the best Australian and international jewellery brands showcased at IJF.
Ichu Jewellery
Ichu's inspiration comes from the exotic beauty of South America, with the name referring directly to the versatility and creativity in the fine detailing of their designs. By using precious metals such as sterling silver the brand strives to stay truthful to its South American influence.
I admire the stylish, industrial-chic collection that is bold yet minimalist at the same time. The cut-out, contoured and wrap effect creates a softer, more feminine adornment.
Aaron Shum Jewellery
If you visit the website of Aaron Shum Jewellery you'll find that for each of his collection he becomes an astute storyteller (or daydreamer) that really allows us to embrace and connect to the inner beauty of his collection. The Flotilla collection consists of black rhodium metal gracefully combined with small sparkling diamonds that appears to 'float' on a mysterious black backdrop, telling stories of a small fleet of ships to the starry night sky that reveals inspiring stories of myths and legends.
Aesthetic is important when it comes to jewellery, but sometimes it is the story that really counts.
Bianc Jewellery
Bianc Jewellery conjures up a dream jewellery cabinets of curiosities; as you open each one you'll be repeatedly surprised by how different one collection differs from another. In a sense, Bianc Jewellery is everything you need in accessorising for different occasions. Want to go for instant glam? Choose the Bel Noir collection for sophisticated glamour. Feeling colourful and sweet? Choose the Lustre collection. In a minimalist mood? The Briller collection is perfect for the subtle invisible jewellery trend or stacking as many jewellery as you could possibly want.
Karen Walker
An epitome of affordable luxury, Karen Walker's objective is to create jewellery for modern times, where your best jewellery is not saved for special occasions or sitting in your jewellery box, you'll wear it with your faded jeans and untamed hair while doing your normal coffee run. Karen Walker represents the kind of jewellery that you'll buy for yourself because you earned it.
The Botanical collection is gorgeous and whimsical where you can combine the visual awe of flowers and jewellery close to your heart.
Midsummer Star
Created by two free spirits whose worldly travels provides an essential source of inspiration. The exotic concoction of cultural discoveries, hidden gems and the innate love of untouched nature forms this wonderful collection of mystical, symbolic and eclectic adornment.
