Now in its 23rd year, the Australian Jewellery Awards put on by the Jewellery Association of Australia, gives jewelers a platform to start or enhance their career in the industry. The JAA Awards competition was introduced out of the desire to showcase and honour the best designers and well designed pieces. The award winning pieces are highlighted to the international public via the Awards Presentation event and are promoted throughout the industry across the world. The Peter Minturn Goldsmith School in Auckland had three finalists this year. Erika Watson, Jonathan Maher, who are both currently studying at PMGS for an advanced diploma in jewellery and goldsmithing and Hannah Cross who is currently studying for her diploma in jewellery and goldsmithing. The Peter Minturn Goldsmith School’s aim is to educate and train students to a professional standard in the arts, crafts and design of the jeweler goldsmith. Since 2004 the schools’ graduates have continued to achieve excellent results and gain employment within the jewellery trade. The school is NZQA approved at levels 4,5 and 6 in Goldsmithing and Jewellery, based on Peter’s 60 year career as a designer goldsmith and the western European style of handmade diamond mounting and ring making.
