Both Ita and I studied at the Vakschool Schoonhoven, the distinguished Technical Institute for gold and silversmiths in Holland. After we graduated I worked for an architectural metalsmith while Ita studied for a degree in art. In 1980 we emigrated to New Zealand. We settled in the culturally versatile university city of Dunedin starting Artifact in 1981.

In 1982 we started experimenting with titanium and developed a collection of titanium jewellery. At the time there was very little information available about titanium used in jewellery. We were very excited about this metal and its possibilities. Titanium is a natural element (not an alloy). It is a strong metal with an outstanding resistance to corrosion and is non allergenic.

These days we are using titanium in its natural form in combination with gold, silver and platinum. The colour of titanium lends itself well to be combined with the precious metals. It is the ideal metal to use for rings as it is comfortable to wear, strong, light in weight and very durable. We like the challenge of working with titanium. It is not the easiest metal to work with, but the end result is worth the effort. We can now create a seamless ring, with or without inlays or stones, to your specifications.

   In 1983 we employed Heidi Theissen who had just left school. She was trained in all aspects of jewellery making and is now a fully qualified trades person. Heidi remains with us today manufacturing titanium rings.

   In 2000 Carole Agatsiotis joined our small team. She took on the increasing correspondence, internet ordering and general administration of the office. 

 

In 2005 Tom Mulder started working for us. He is specialized in computer and pattern design.

 

In March 2009 Merrall MacNeille joined our team after he finished his degree in Jewellery design at the Otago Polytechnic.

 

We are proud to have stayed a small business which enables us to provide individual attention as well as creating a quality product that you can consider uniquely yours.

We guarantee the highest quality of craftsmanship and make every effort to provide you with the best possible service.

We welcome your enquiries, please feel free to contact us.

 

Artifact Ltd.
P.O. Box 8044
Gardens
Dunedin
New Zealand
Ph: +64 3 4679299
Fax: +64 3 4679395
Email: info@artifact.co.nz