
Why I Choose to Speak Up – A Feature on A Current Affair
Last week I had the experience of appearing on A Current Affair to share my story and my involvement in the Heart Research Institute’s consumer program.

Last week I had the experience of appearing on A Current Affair to share my story and my involvement in the Heart Research Institute’s consumer program.

I’m excited to share my most recent series of one-of-a-kind pieces, exhibited for the first time at Pressure and Time, hosted by Courtesy of the Artist at BC House.

I’m honoured and so excited to be exhibiting alongside some of Australia’s finest contemporary jewellers for this milestone event by Courtesy of the Artist in just a few weeks!

When she was just 23, Marina Antoniou faced an unexpected health battle. Now she is using her voice and her craft to raise awareness about heart research and offering hope to others. This is her story.

Born from my own health story and inspired by the concept of time, the Chronos Necklace supports vital research and raises awareness for the Heart Research Institute.

When I think about what makes my jewellery different, it always comes back to one thing: the stones. And not just any stones, but an exclusive mix of Australian gemstones that few, if any, jewellers in the world are working with in the way I do.

Every bespoke ring tells a story – and this one in particular holds a deeply personal narrative, woven with memory and intention. In the centre is an Australian diamond, gifted to my client by her parents and sourced from the Kimberley region in Western Australia.

Earlier in the year, Angela came to me with something special – her late mum’s engagement ring. It held so much meaning for her, and I felt really honoured to be asked to help give it new life.

My fascination with Australian sapphires began the moment I discovered them. But it’s not just their palette that draws me in, it’s where they come from, and the people who bring them to light.

This is one of those photos I know I’ll treasure forever. My Mum. My youngest daughter. And in their hands, two necklaces I made – two hearts, different sizes, same shape. I call them From the Heart because that’s exactly where they have come from.

Some jewellery pieces hold more than just beauty – they carry memories, milestones and stories that deserve to be honoured, not hidden away. This bespoke cluster necklace is a true example of that sentiment

Australian Chrysoprase, particularly the stones from the renowned Marlborough mines in Central Queensland, holds a special place in my design work. Known for its gorgeous green colour, this gemstone is one of the rarest and most highly prized varieties of chalcedony.

This time of year, as we think about giving, heart jewellery feels especially thoughtful. It’s more than just a gift; it’s a symbol of love – for a partner, family member, friend, or even yourself. Explore the entire ‘From the Heart’ collection online now.

There’s a certain magic that comes with creating bespoke pieces, and this diamond engagement ring was no exception. For my clients, I designed a ring that celebrates the brilliance of diamonds. The process of making this piece was as intricate as the design itself, requiring careful planning and meticulous attention to detail.

Today, I want to share the story behind the Seagrass Meadow Necklace. This piece features a beautifully arranged cluster of Australian gemstones – Australian sapphires from Queensland, Australian turquoise from the Northern Territory and a single Argyle diamond from Western Australia.

Over the past 14 years, my Sydney jewellery studio has been a space of constant evolution and growth. Yet, no matter how much changes, one thing remains at the heart of it all: the deep honour I feel practicing the ancient craft of jewellery making.

And here is the finished piece! Taking something as rare as this Australian sapphire and transforming it into a piece that holds meaning beyond its physical form has been truly special. What a journey this ring has been on.

As a Sydney-based jeweller with a deep love for Australian gemstones, creating work with Australian sapphires is a profound honour that inspires me daily. These sapphires, with their rich and varied hues, reflect the stunning diversity of our landscape, and I’m dedicated to bringing that natural beauty to life in my designs.

The Seagrass Meadow Drop Earrings from the Neptune collection truly speak to the soul of the ocean. Inspired by the serene beauty of underwater meadows, these earrings embody the gentle sway of seagrass as it dances with the ocean currents.

As a jeweller, I’ve handled countless gemstones, but every now and then one crosses my path that demands special attention. I have recently been given the pleasure of working with this light blue Australian sapphire sourced by Nina Cueva.

Growing up in a Greek Orthodox family, I’ve always found cross jewellery to feel sacred and familiar. To me, the cross is more than just a religious symbol; it’s a way for people to feel connected to their family and culture.

It was a special day, full of creativity and love, as Nicoletta and I embarked on a heartfelt project together. With her Mum’s birthday just around the corner, four year old Nicoeletta and I decided to make a pair of earrings that would be a beautiful and meaningful surprise.

From the moment I first encountered them, I’ve admired Australian sapphires. An Australian sapphire can come in the most unexpected colourways across the spectrum, from the well known royal blue, to pastel sky blue, shades of pink, green, yellow and orange.

My passion for Australian gemstones is partially from my curiosity for origin stories. I’ve always been interested in learning where something comes from and how its experience shapes it into what it is today. Read my brief guide to Australian-sourced birthstones.
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