You are probably all wondering what has been happening here at NVJ since my last update. There are a few exciting things that we are getting ready to action in the coming month or two that I really want you to know about.

Most of those who follow along on the Facebook or Instagram would have noticed new pieces from the Venus Range filtering through over the last few months. I am pleased to be able to launch this collection officially very soon (they have been such a hit that I am selling the launch stock quicker than I can make it!) The whole range is made from either sterling silver or 9ct gold; nothing is plated, including the chains. This means that all these pieces will last for years to come, unlike similar ranges in costume jewellery. Some pieces will also come with an illustration of the shell species featured. The original illustrations were drawn by none-other than Ebb Draws- the same local artist who illustrated the birthstone cards we have for sale.

The Venus Range will have a core range of pendants, earrings, and rings in all metals, and once these are completed, I will add some one-of-a-kind pieces to the range. I am really excited to play around with setting champagne diamonds in some larger abalone castings, so keep an eye out for those.

I also wanted to chat about a brand-new product that I am working on because I have had more time to be creative in the workshop. I have always felt a strong connection with our island home, and I know a lot of others do too. I realised the perfect way to represent this would be a Tasmania Map pendant. They will be available in sterling silver, yellow gold or rose gold, and I will be setting stones as close as possible to a place you choose on the island. It could be your home town, or maybe a place where a special event happened. I am just waiting for an important piece of equipment to arrive, and then I’ll have some more information to share.

Finally, I wanted to give you an update on our new booking structure. Last year lead times got a bit crazy, as did our stress levels. We are so pleased that we are generally making deadlines now, but there is always room for improvement. We have just had our next round of bookings close, with the next lot to become available late August for September dates. Thank you to those that have booked – I cannot wait to meet you and design some wonderful pieces. I really want to thank everyone for embracing this new booking structure; it means we are now able to work on delivering high quality customer service, and to have better work-life balance.

That’s all from me for now – thank you again for all of your unwavering support.

Nicole xo