About
In the studio
Sarah Bourke is a designer maker of contemporary silver and wood Jewellery. Studied at Enmore Design Centre Sydney completing Jewellery and Object Design Diploma. Establishing a range of Jewellery available across Australia in many galleries and stores since 2012.
At home on the far south coast of NSW just north of the small coastal town of Tathra. My studio is surrounded by the beautiful Australian spotted gum bush. My work reflects a passion for nature in which each design blossoms the fluidity from the natural environment.
The combination of silversmithing and woodworking skills creates a contemporary Jewellery style. Each piece is handmade by me in my off- grid studio using recycled sterling silver and ethically sourced hardwoods.
I pride myself on quality craftsmanship expressing a passion for design that is inspired by our beautiful environment. Each piece is a wearable work of art to last a lifetime.
The wood
I use woodworking and silversmithing techniques in my practice to combine wood with the silver. Starting from an individual block of wood I hand carve and hand sand the wood to create the organic form. The process continues by fixing the silver and wood together creating harmony between the materials resulting in fluid individual shapes that could be a pair of earrings or hung on silver
By using of Australian and exotic hardwood they provide a uniqueness to every handmade piece of Jewellery. In the online shop Jewellery can be purchased through “Ready Now” which offers pieces that have been made available to ship the same day. There is also the opportunity to purchase from the full Sarah Bourke range a piece of Jewellery which allows you to then choose the wood you prefer.
The wood has been sourced though many ethical means. Some pieces are made from beautiful pieces of wood saved from larger wood craft makers as well as reclaimed old wooden furniture. In some small cases wood has been resin infused to make use for Knife makers and this will strengthen the wood but not necessary for pieces of Jewellery. Timber suppliers today have very high restrictions to protect our fantastic trees growing on this earth.
Product Care
Please be aware that these pieces are handmade items that should be worn with care.
Sterling Silver and wood wears beautifully, each scratch adds character to your piece.
It natural that with time and wear, the metal will tarnish, scratch and the wood may change shades. To protect the piece avoid contact with abrasive surfaces, detergents, cosmetics and with the wood, especially water.
Polished silver can easily be cleaned using a polishing cloth available at supermarkets. Brushed Finishes can be brightened to original silver shade using a scotch brite by lightly sanding across ways.
Blackened silver will wear off on contact with wear which gives character to each piece. This can be re applied if required.
Wood especially needs care with rings, they can be polished with any beeswax or wood polish to keep out moisture and brighten the wood.