From Fossicking to Jewellery Making

G’day—we’re Jim and Sandy, two passionate lapidarists based in the beautiful Atherton Tablelands of Far North Queensland.

Our rockhounding adventure began in 2008 while we were working in Forsayth. One camping trip to Agate Creek quickly turned into a full-blown treasure hunt, and we came home with buckets of rocks and huge expectations.

At our local lapidary club, we soon discovered that much of our prized haul was what seasoned rockhounds cheerfully call “leaverite” or “chuckite.” Luckily, a few real treasures were hiding in the mix. The moment we cut open our first stunning agates and revealed their vibrant patterns, we were hooked!

Since then, curiosity has kept us busy. We started with cabbing, faceting and basic silversmithing, then added goldsmithing, lost-wax casting, mold making, wax injection and enamelling to our creative toolkit. We’re always keen to try a new technique, test a piece of equipment or add to our collection—especially when fossicking adventures and shed sales are involved.

What do we love most? Taking something rough, dusty and easy to overlook, then revealing the beauty that has been hiding inside it all along. From finding a stone in nature to shaping, polishing and setting it, every step feels like part craft, part discovery and part magic.

We’re also proud to source all our materials legally and ethically. Just as importantly, we enjoy sharing what we’ve learned with fellow rockhounds, collectors and curious newcomers who are equally fascinated by the earth’s hidden treasures.

So, whether you’re a lifelong rockhound, an avid collector or simply wondering what all the sparkle is about, come and explore our creations. Every stone has a story—and we’d love to help you uncover yours.