My Bench: Alan Linney

ALAN LINNEY

Works at: Linneys, Perth

Age: 68

Years in trade: 53 years

Training: Six-year apprenticeship and a year of gemmological studies.

First job: Ron Brown, a manufacturing jeweller.

Other qualifications: Gardening!

Favourite gemstone:

Pink diamonds because they are a West Australian precious natural resource, are extremely rare, and the intensity of the colour mixes well with other diamonds.

Favourite metal:

18-carat yellow gold. I create the most interesting and detailed jewellery with it. You can see it in our recent collection, Butterfly Lovers.

Favourite tool:

I still have my pliers from the 1970s. The other jewellers in our workshop always ask to borrow them!

Best new tool discovery:

Laser welder.

Best part of job:

Exceeding expectations on challenging designs. Also, building a relationship with our loyal customers over the years.

Worst part of job:

I never find it difficult being at work! I really enjoy every aspect.

Best tip from a jeweller:

Communication is key.

Best tip to a jeweller:

Follow all instructions.

Biggest health concern on the bench:

Look after your hands and fingers as they are your most important resource.

Love jewellery because:

You can start the day with a few raw materials and at the end of it you have a piece of wearable art that can be passed on for generations.