ABOUT

I'm Jo-Ann Elizabeth French, the creator of, and maker behind Elizabeth French Jewellery. My love for jewellery was sparked at a young age, the workshop, tools and workmanship intrigued me during our visits at mum's local jeweller. I grew up on the beautiful Cape Town coast in South-Africa; mountains rolling into the sea, magical sunsets and marine wildlife have been an early inspiration.

Drawing and creating was a childhood pastime, and graduating at a private art school focusing purely on art as choice subjects steered me into a creative career. After school, a jewellery course presented itself, and I have never looked back.

My journey started with silversmithing workshops followed by working in the industry for various jewellers in South-Africa and New Zealand. The NZ jewellery manufacturing apprenticeship offered comprehensive training, including precision repairs and manufacturing techniques while working in the industry. Building up my jewellery brand in my spare time during my studies has set me up to officially launch Elizabeth French Jewellery.

Northland, New Zealand, is home now. Surrounded by beautiful bays with rocky landscapes, sea life, and tropical flora. My interpretation of the endless shorelines and intriguing underwater world is brought to life with my hands using precision tools in my workshop. Precious metals and gemstones replicating colours, movement, and textures of the ocean.

I got featured in Jewellery Times NZ Magazine's summer edition after being chosen as Jewellery Manufacturing apprentice of year in my final year. I've stepped into 2024 as a fully qualified manufacturing jeweller/goldsmith. 

Perseverance and passion pushed me, and now I have the freedom to use the skills and knowledge I've gained to tell my story through wearable creations. Each piece of jewellery tells a story, a sentimental memory to be worn through generations. 

When I'm not in the workshop, I'm most likely surfing waves or observing a rockpool's world.