Introducing: Emma Jane Donald

Meet The Shelter Ponsonby’s new Designer in Residence, Emma Jane Donald.

The showroom space at the back of The Shelter has become a hub of interiors, art and creatives over the years and is now home to the workshop of New Zealand jeweller Emma Jane Donald. Donald's contemporary collection is available in-store, along with her on-site workshop offering bespoke services.

A chance meeting with master Jeweller William Griffiths while living in Australia spurred her interest in jewellery design, and she set up her jewellery studio in the hinterland of Byron Bay. Donald combines her Elam Fine Arts degree in sculpture with an architectural sensibility to craft intimate wearable pieces. Elemental, geometric forms incorporate precious gemstones in considered and concise designs.

We spoke to Emma to get to know a little more about her range, and what you can expect to see in the space.

Emma! Welcome to The Shelter, we are excited to have a new resident jeweller join our space. Can you give us a little intro to you and the brand?

Thank you! It's truly a pleasure to be here, surrounded by the work of other talented Aotearoa and international designers.

For over 16 years, I've been crafting gold and silver jewellery. My creations blend architectural and sculptural elements with a deep appreciation for the intricacies of the natural world. Each piece marries elemental, geometric forms with precious gemstones, resulting in designs that are both considered and concise. My fascination with artisanal fabrication methods ensures that every piece is meticulously constructed, promising timeless and enduring jewellery.

You’ve just come back from living in Byron Bay; what originally drew you to the area?

The allure of rolling hills, lush bushland, and coastlines reminiscent of New Zealand's landscape drew me to Byron Bay. I fell in love with the hinterland town of Bangalow, with its galleries and artist precincts. Recognising a niche in the market, I opened a contemporary jewellery gallery and workshop inspired by the area's creative energy.

Tell us about how you became a jewellery designer and how the label began.

After completing my Fine Arts degree at Elam, I moved to Melbourne, where I met a master jeweller who generously offered me the use of their workshop. Crafting my inaugural piece (a silver safety pin) ignited my passion for jewellery design. I remained in Melbourne, immersing myself in the contemporary jewellery scene while honing my craft through formal study in jewellery engineering.

What are you seeking to do differently with EJD?

We offer an alternative to mass-manufactured jewellery. Our commitment to using high-quality materials and meticulously handcrafted ensures each piece is not only unique but also of exceptional quality. Our focus on individual, modern design and limited editions ensures exclusivity and distinction.

You specialise in bespoke made-to-order pieces. What is the process like for ordering a special EJD piece?

Our custom process is a collaborative journey between the client and myself. Whether modifying ready-to-wear designs or creating a completely bespoke piece, we begin by meeting either in-store or via online communication. Together, we conceptualise the design, discussing the sourcing of gemstones and detailing client preferences. Once the design is finalised and approved, a deposit initiates the crafting process. Turnaround time typically ranges from 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the design.

Jewellery is often tied to special memories. Do you have a favourite story behind one of the pieces you’ve made?

One of the most poignant pieces I've created was a custom Half Circle Bracelet for a gentleman who had recently lost his wife. Incorporating the couple's wedding bands, the bracelet served as a tangible connection to his beloved spouse. The gratitude expressed in his thank-you note underscored the profound significance jewellery can hold.

Talk to us about the collection we can find at The Shelter, what can guests to the space expect to find?

Visitors to The Shelter can explore our diverse offerings, from ready-to-wear pieces to exclusive one-of-a-kind designs available only in our concept store. Our space also showcases our gold collection, featuring hand-selected precious gemstones such as white, grey, and black diamonds, as well as Australian sapphires. Additionally, guests can witness the artistry first hand with our onsite workshop, where jewellery is crafted.

Discover Emma Jane Donald Jewellery online, or pop in-store to meet Emma at The Shelter Ponsonby.
78 Mackelvie Street.