The Perfect Last Minute Gift — Shop Gift Vouchers
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Most of our pieces begin with recycled gold and silver. By working with reclaimed metals, we reduce the environmental impact of mining while creating jewellery that’s every bit as beautiful and durable as pieces made from newly mined materials.
“In 2014 I (Sara) visited a town called Potosi in Bolivia. After being in the mines for around 2 hours, the fumes and conditions were really challenging. It was unfathomable that children as young as 10 were working in these mines. We chose our refiner because they recycle both gold and silver. It’s something we are really proud of as we know it would be cheaper to buy new material”
We use lab-grown diamonds throughout our collections. These diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds, but created in controlled environments that minimise the environmental and ethical concerns associated with traditional diamond mining.
“When Maddy and I began the business in 2015 we were new to the industry, we felt more comfortable with the pipeline of lab grown diamonds (both from a supply and manufacturing journey) and they were aligned with our sustainability goals. Purchasing stones from reputable and certified growers is the only way to ensure that your lab grown diamond has a measurable impact and is an environmentally friendly option”
“If a customer comes to us with a particular colour stone in mind, we work with them to find the appropriate stone. This may be a mined diamond, however we only buy Australian or Canadian diamonds and work with Australian cutters for gemstones.”
Our Studios
Our jewellery is crafted across two Australian studios - our main workshop in Newcastle and our specialist team in Brisbane. This is where the majority of our pieces come to life, combining traditional jewellery-making techniques with modern technology.
The Making Process
We embrace both the art of traditional smithing and setting alongside contemporary techniques. Some pieces are created entirely by hand at the bench, while others incorporate modern technologies like 3D printing and precision machinery to create small components with exceptional accuracy. This hybrid approach allows us to maintain the highest quality standards while meeting the demands of our customers in a timely way.
A Note on “Handmade”
You might notice we don’t use the term “handmade” to describe our jewellery. This is a deliberate choice. We believe this term should be reserved for pieces that are forged entirely by hand from start to finish, without the use of techniques like 3D printing or machine-made components.
“Our approach is different - and we think it’s honest to acknowledge that. We use technology where it makes sense: to achieve precision, to work efficiently, and to create components that would be extremely time-consuming to produce entirely by hand. But the heart of our work - the setting, the finishing, the attention to detail - remains deeply rooted in traditional jewellery craft. We’re proud of our method. It allows us to deliver beautiful, well-made pieces while being transparent about how they’re created.”
What We Don’t Make In-House
Some components are sourced from trusted suppliers because they require specialised equipment or techniques. This includes:
- Fine chains
- Hinged earrings and certain findings like earring backs
- Tennis pieces
We’re selective about our suppliers and only work with those who share our commitment to quality and ethical practices.
Newcastle Workshop
Our Newcastle studio is home to nine talented jewellers, ranging from craftspeople with decades of bench experience to jewellers just beginning their careers. This mix of experience levels is something we’re incredibly proud of.
We’re a training workshop at heart. Skills development and learning aren’t extras we fit in around production - they’re woven into every workday. We believe that investing in our team’s growth creates better jewellers and, ultimately, better jewellery.
Brisbane Team
Our Brisbane studio houses a specialised team of master setters who bring exceptional skill to the precise work of stone setting. We’re also fortunate to work with a diamond buyer who brings over 50 years of sourcing experience to the business, ensuring we select the finest lab-grown diamonds for your pieces.
Minimising Environmental Impact
Sustainability isn’t an afterthought for us - it’s fundamental to how we operate. From the recycled metals we work with to the suppliers we choose, we’re constantly looking for ways to reduce our environmental footprint.
“Sustainable studies was a huge part of my university degree and I wrote my honours thesis on the detrimental effects of greenwashing. If you start a business you are responsible for your environmental impact, it’s very simple”
Working with Responsible Suppliers
We collaborate with suppliers who share our values, working together to minimise waste at every stage - even in how items are packaged and sent to us. Our preference is always for suppliers with Responsible Jewellery Council certification and those who can provide SCS certified stones. When you view our product range you will begin to see the number of designed elements and materials that come together to create a piece.
“Our relationships are ever evolving and ones that we are always working on to ensure alignment. As a brand that’s over 10 years old some information may be out of date, if you ever have any questions on where a piece or component is made you can reach out to myself of our team for clarification. Transparency can be challenging in the jewellery industry but for us it become the heart of our relationships with our customer and something we prioritise”
Thoughtful Packaging
Our packaging is made primarily from paper and cardboard that can be recycled. We want the unboxing experience to feel special, but not at the expense of the environment.
“We recently redesigned our bags to remove the fabric handles which need to be removed to be able to be recycled. We want recycling to be as straightforward for our customers as possible while protecting the jewellery in transit.”
Every piece of jewellery tells a story, not just yours, but ours too. When you choose Kate & Kole, you’re choosing transparency, skilled craftsmanship and environmental responsibility.
“Thank you for being a discerning customer. We’re proud of how we make jewellery. We hope this gives you confidence in what you’re wearing and how it came to be.”—Sara, Co-Founder and Designer
Jewellery Dish & Ring Stand
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