Behind the Bench

Join Matthew Ely behind the bench. Here, you'll discover stories about the making of our most remarkable pieces, jewellery tips and trend advice, and information about our most precious gems sourced from around the globe.

Keshi pearl earrings by Matthew Ely Jewellery

Top 4 Pearl Trends: How & Where to Wear Them?

Classic pearls are well and truly back in the spotlight, but it's nothing like your grandma used to wear. From Baroque shapes to vibrant gemstone pairings and effortless layering, here are the top pearl trends of 2025. 

5 Things Mum Wants For Mother's Day

5 Things Mum Wants For Mother's Day

Why not give Mum something she actually wants this Mother’s Day? Here are Matthew Ely's top five jewellery gift suggestions, from diamond tennis bracelets, to a makeover of grandma's jewels, and a truly Sparkling Experience.

Diamond and tanzanite cocktail ring

A Guide to Blue Gemstones

Blue gemstones are making a statement — from classic sapphires to rare tanzanite. Whether it’s a sapphire bracelet or aquamarine ring, these bold gems are this season’s must-have. Discover Matthew Ely’s expert tips on styling and selecting your perfect shade of blue.  

Custom made diamond tiara

The Making Of: A Diamond Tiara

Discover one of Matthew Ely's most intricate projects yet - a custom made diamond wedding tiara, that could transform into a necklace. 650 hours. 580 diamonds. 11 rare South Sea pearls. A hidden surprise, flawless craftsmanship, and a white gold screwdriver. 

Blue sapphire bracelet

Jewellery Trend: Wrist Candy Bracelets

Tennis bracelets are no longer just for special occasions - they’re your new everyday luxury. From classic diamond designs to vibrant gemstone stacks, Matthew Ely shares the biggest bracelet trends, and how to style your 'wrist candy'.

A jewellery remodelling - family heirloom sapphire & diamond ring by Matthew Ely Jewellery

The Making Of: A 'Family Heirloom' Sapphire & Diamond Ring

It started with two rings, ten diamonds, and one sketch. The request? To transform and unite two sentimental heirlooms, our client's late mother’s rings, into one beautiful, iconic piece.

The Largest Keshi Pearl Necklace in the World

The Largest Keshi Pearl Necklace in the World

After 13 years of sourcing and 700 hours of handcrafting, Matthew Ely is proud to present Iluka. This remarkable piece was designed and shaped 100% by hand, a rarity in modern jewellery making. It heroes an array of ‘nature’s miracles’ – including 42 incredibly rare South Sea Keshi pearls.

Pink Gemstones: The Top 4 Gems & Trends

Pink Gemstones: The Top 4 Gems & Trends

Pink diamonds, morganite, and sapphire—nature’s most coveted pink gemstones are more sought-after than ever. Find out why these exquisite jewels are captivating collectors and designers alike, with styling advice from Matthew Ely.

A Guide to Buying Pearls

A Guide to Buying Pearls

How can you tell if a pearl is real? Should you choose a Baroque pearl or round pearl? Discover tips from Matthew Ely and the Autore South Sea Cultured Pearl Classification Guide.

18ct White Gold, Apatite, Aquamarine, Zircon, Diamond & Tahitian Pearl Necklace.

The Making Of: La Parade Azure

La Parade Azure is a true masterpiece—meticulously handcrafted over 300 hours in a tiny Parisian studio. Inspired by the elegance of a stingray, this striking pendant showcases a rare apatite centrepiece. Discover its story.

Meet Matthew Ely Jeweller, Louis

Meet Matthew Ely Jeweller, Louis

Meet Matthew Ely Jeweller, Louis. In his words: “Australians are more creative! While the French aesthetic is classic and reserved, the trend here is towards explosions of colour that go far beyond traditional diamonds."

What Jewellery To Wear in 2023

What Jewellery To Wear in 2023

A new year, a new collection, a bold new suite of jewellery trends. Think Grandma’s 1920s jewellery box paired with post-Covid extravagance, ‘Viva Magenta’ and some not-so-classic pearls. 

The Making Of: A Tourmaline 'Sanctuary' Ring

The Making Of: A Tourmaline 'Sanctuary' Ring

A clandestine octopus hidden in a tourmaline, a hand-etched ocean seascape bubbling under the surface, and a finalist at the Jewellers Association of Australia Awards. This is the story of Sanctuary. 

Introducing Matthew Ely Jeweller, Velvet

Introducing Matthew Ely Jeweller, Velvet

You may have met her in person at the Matthew Ely boutique, or you may have seen her incredible, nature-inspired designs on social media. Either way, our up-and-coming jeweller, Velvet, is a face (and name!) to remember.

How To Find The Perfect Jewellery Gift

How To Find The Perfect Jewellery Gift

Find the perfect jewellery gift for an anniversary, milestone birthday, Valentine's Day or special occasion. Here are 5 tips to get you started.

Sketch of a transformable Art Deco Tourmaline & Pearl necklace by Matthew Ely

The Making Of: A ‘Transformable’ Art Deco Tourmaline & Pearl Necklace

A classic pearl necklace for brunch, an elegant brooch for afternoon tea, and a remarkable Art Deco pendant for dinner – all thanks to a single piece of jewellery.

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