JEWELLERY MADE BY HAND WITH HEART
From her harbour-side studio near Paparoa, Dominique Crikemans transforms sterling silver into meaningful jewellery inspired by the raw beauty of her surroundings.
Art has always been a creative refuge for Dominique, founder and creator of dC jewellery, offering an inspiring alternative to her earlier corporate career. Before discovering her true passion as a silversmith a decade ago, Dominique explored pottery and painting – chapters that continue to inform her aesthetic and hands-on approach.
For the past ten years, Dominique has been designing and handcrafting sterling silver jewellery for whānau, friends, and commissions. Eight months ago, she took the exciting step of launching dC jewellery. as a full-time business, bringing her creative practice fully into the heart of her everyday life.
Nestled near Paparoa in the Kaipara District, Dominique’s studio boasts breathtaking views over Te Tai Tokerau Northland’s Kaipara Harbour. Sometimes glass-calm and reflective, other times wild with whitecaps dancing across the water, the harbour’s organic coastline curves, native flora, and birdlife of this special corner of Aotearoa serve as daily inspiration that is reflected in her work.
Each dC jewellery. design begins as an idea – sometimes sketched over coffee while watching the tide turn, other times sparked by a moment, memory or reflection – before being crafted entirely by hand. Dominique personally designs, shapes, solders, hammers, files, and polishes each item.
This hands-on process ensures that every ring, necklace, bangle, or pair of earrings carries the subtle marks of its maker, making each piece truly one of a kind. While many designs are unique one-offs, some simple, organic necklaces and bracelets have become beloved staples.
In addition to her online shop, dC jewellery. pieces are proudly showcased at the Black Shed Art Space gallery in Waipu, where locals and visitors can experience the beauty of her work up close, or reach out directly for bespoke designs.