Real Gems and Little Nuggets

Why Real Gems and Little Nuggets?

Jewellery and adornment is an essential part of human history, and a fascinating reflection of the issues of the day it is created in. These issues only make it more interesting, and The Jeweller and The Host hope that by generating this discussion, we can understand the emotions and complexities of the issues and together have a more useful and productive conversation around ethics, values and impacts in the industry.

The Jeweller was frustrated with a lack of quality resources and learning materials for people both within and outside the jewellery industry. There are fantastic resources for customers, but less available for those interested in doing a deep dive not just into concepts but also into other areas of the jewellery industry – art, politics, the environment and history.

The Jeweller noticed a lack of discussion around these points between the customers and the industry, which quickly descended into ethical shouting-matches and finger-pointing.

Together with The Host, they both realised that important discussions were being missed in terms of honest questions by customers, especially those who didn’t have family or social knowledge of jewellery. Questions that people wanted answered without a sales pitch, and without any judgement about their previous knowledge.

Real Gems explores the complex issues in the jewellery industry, attempting not to shy away from complex and thorny discussions. We cover history, politics, economics, environmental and social issues.

Little Nuggets are for you, the consumer.

They’re about answering your questions and giving you quick and dirty advice on all aspects of jewellery. Sometimes they’re a jewellers perspective, sometimes important myth-busting, sometimes simple questions people are afraid to ask.

If you’re looking for advice on engagement rings, or looking to buy your own special piece of jewellery, or just have a quick question about jewellery care or materials, this is the place. Send in everything you ever wanted to know, and we’ll do our best to answer.

Why should you trust us?

I’m Eli Broe, jeweller, gemmologist and educator. I’ve been a jeweller for over a decade, completed numerous trade qualifications and further-education and worked in other roles the industry for over five years. I’ve seen all aspects of the industry – from design, to production, product development, material sourcing and of course manufacturing.