Who is Matthew Ely?
Matthew Ely is an award-winning jeweller, celebrated for his innovative designs and meticulous craftsmanship. He has received numerous accolades, and was named ‘Innovator of the Year’ at the 2024 Jewellery Industry Awards.
From his flagship Matthew Ely Jewellery Woollahra Workshop & Boutique, Matthew handcrafts one-of-a-kind creations that blend artistry and luxury.
The Beginnings
Matthew Ely’s journey into the world of jewellery began long before he crafted his first piece. It’s in his blood. His father, Robert Ely, owns Sydney’s award-winning York Jewellers, where Matthew’s fascination with gemstones and handcrafting took root.
At just 12 years old, Matthew wrote a letter to his parents applying for a job, and was tasked with sweeping the workshop floors. By 16, he was already designing and selling jewellery, and at 18, he embarked on a rigorous apprenticeship, training under 16 different master jewellers.
“I was very young, but had no doubt that this was what I wanted to do. I was lucky to have that solid conviction and genuine passion for gemstones,” says Matthew.
The London Days
Matthew's dedication soon propelled him to competitive success. At 19, he won first place at the regional and third place at the national level of WorldSkills, Australia's biggest vocational educational and excellence competition.
The following year, his ‘Embrace’ morganite brooch and pendant won the 2007 Showcase International Design Awards Creative Division. His 'Parisian' heliodor earrings were a finalist at the Awards.
These honours opened up multiple opportunities, which led Matthew to London’s prestigious Hatton Garden jewellery district. Here, he secured a piecework jeweller position with Barry Jacobs of Jacobs Jewellery, and began to refine his skills among some of the industry’s best.
Awards & Accolades
Returning to Australia in 2010, Matthew began crafting high jewellery pieces that won national acclaim. His awards included:
2011: Winner of the Showcase International Design Awards Creative Division ('Rose Bijou')
2013: Winner of the Fancy Colour Category at the Diamond Guild of Australia Jewellery Awards ('Illoura')
2013: Winner of the Showcase International Design Awards Pearl Category ('Grace')
2015: Finalist for the Red Carpet Award at the 2015 Diamond Guild of Australia Jewellery Awards ('Chantilly')
2018: Finalist for the Red Carpet Award at the 2018 Diamond Guild of Australia Jewellery Awards ('Mer de Glace')
2019: Winner of the Pearl Award ('South Sea Fan') and the Diamond Award ('Ballare') at the 2019 Jewellery Design Awards
2024: 'Innovator of the Year' at the 2024 Jewellery Industry Awards
A Home in Woollahra
Driven by his experiences in London, Matthew was determined to create a space where he could craft unique, beautiful pieces. He opened his first Woollahra workshop and boutique on Ocean St in 2014.
Matthew Ely by York Jewellers was a labour of love, meticulously designed to stand out, much like Matthew’s custom creations.
“Witnessing the global innovations in jewellery really inspired me. I wanted to drive innovation and creativity, crafting pieces that blurred the line between jewellery and artwork.”
From Ocean to Queen
In 2019, Matthew relocated to a larger space at 92 Queen Street, Woollahra, featuring an expanded showroom and private consultation area.
The revamped boutique juxtaposed traditional and
modern elements, featuring Art Deco archways, Italian silks, and gold leaf designs that offset the modernist brass and bronze workshop aesthetic.
“It really allowed us to enhance our offerings and focus more on the customer experience, which is crucial for me. It’s as busy, creative and exciting as is it relaxing and indulgent,” says Matthew. “It feels like home, and I want my clients to feel the same.”
In 2024, Matthew Ely celebrated his 10 year ‘Diamond’ anniversary in Woollahra.
Matthew Ely Jewellery Shopfronts
