This month we sit down with Linneys Creative Director Justin Linney to discover more about his design influences and career achievements. Enjoy!

What inspired you to become a jeweller?

The ability to be creative and make people happy. Being second generation in the jewellery industry meant that growing up I was lucky enough to have a jewellery workbench at home that allowed me to play with metals and wax casting. This translated into a passion for art and sculpture whilst I was at school and eventually led to studying a Bachelor of Arts at Curtin University majoring in Jewellery Design.

How would you describe the jewellery you create?

At Linneys we design a diverse range of styles from classic and elegant to contemporary and artistic jewellery. We enjoy creating bespoke pieces for clients according to their design brief and allowing them to turn an idea into a reality. With a focus on quality, we create fine jewellery that we are proud to present to the client and intern they are proud to wear for many years and showcase to their friends and family. Eventually, we hope that our pieces will become a family heirloom and get handed down through the generations.

What do you feel is so special about diamonds?

Diamonds are incredibly symbolic. They embody both a monetary value and a sentimental value. Diamonds become part of our story and our persona, so we form an intrinsic emotional value with the diamonds we own and this becomes a strong bond. Initially, we treasure them because of the price tag and over time we treasure them because of the journey we have taken them on and the symbolism they entail.

What achievement are you most proud of?

Linneys was recently inducted into the Family Business Australia Hall of Fame. The award recognises the achievements of family owned Australian businesses that contribute positively to the community, economy and culture. I was proud of this achievement because it acknowledges both the amazing work that my father Alan has put into the business over many years and also the succession planning that the second generation has implemented to ensure the smooth transition of the business from one generation to the next.

If you had to design your fantasy piece, what would it be?

If there were no restrictions on price or ergonomics I would love to design a dress made entirely with diamonds and platinum to make the ultimate statement.

Do you see any current trends in the industry?

Oval cut diamonds continue to be extremely popular for engagement rings and we are seeing clients becoming more open towards both coloured diamonds and coloured gems. Pearls have been in the fashion spotlight for the past few years and we are seeing the impact of this flow through from fashion jewellery into fine jewellery.

Learn more about member Linneys by visiting their website.