Our Story
Three Generations of Trust
For more than a century, the Burchell name has been synonymous with fine jewellery in the Southern Highlands.
Hamish’s grandfather, Walter Burchell, began his career in 1908 and founded W. E. Burchell in Bowral in 1923. What started as a local jewellery business quickly built a reputation for exceptional quality and integrity — not only in Bowral, but across New South Wales.
W. E. Burchell became one of the oldest continuously trading jewellery stores in the state, serving generations of families until 2009, when Hamish’s father, John, retired.
Today, Hamish proudly continues that legacy — honouring the past while crafting heirlooms for the future.
What truly sets Hamish apart is the combination of:
● Three generations of heritage
● Award-winning craftsmanship
● Advanced gemmological expertise
● A lifelong commitment to excellence
A Life Shaped by Craft
Hamish’s journey began early.
In 1990, while still at high school, he worked part-time alongside his father — learning clockmaking, jewellery repairs and the fundamentals of precision craftsmanship. He simultaneously studied silversmithing at the Sturt Craft Centre in Mittagong, laying the artistic foundations of his trade.
After leaving school in 1993, Hamish commenced his apprenticeship in Sydney under David Evans of D.M. Evans Jewellers — a highly respected craftsman known for producing “Apprentice of the Year” winners. Under this mentorship, Hamish’s apprenticeship was shortened by a year in recognition of his ability and dedication.
His commitment to mastery only deepened from there.
Excellence in Training & Achievement
Hamish’s career is marked by sustained excellence and professional recognition. At Enmore TAFE’s Design Centre, he topped his year twice, won the Nellie Thompson Award for Hand Engraving, and built a reputation for precision and artistry.
He later completed a Certificate IV and Diploma in Gemmology through the Gemmological Institute of Australia, earning Fellowship (FGAA) and returning as a Senior Demonstrator to teach practical gemmology for nearly a decade.
His expertise was further recognised through Fellowship of the Gold & Silversmiths Guild of Australia and, in 2009, acknowledgement by his peers as a Master Jeweller — a title reflecting both mastery of craft and commitment to the profession.
Passing on the Craft
True craftsmanship carries responsibility.
Between 1997 and 2006, Hamish trained four apprentices — three becoming multi-award winners at TAFE. His final apprentice, Mathew Neale, was awarded the NSW State Medal.
This commitment to mentoring reflects Hamish’s belief that jewellery-making is not merely a trade, but an artform to be preserved and elevated.
Mastery with Meaning
Hamish holds extensive professional qualifications, including:
● Craft Certificate Jeweller (Manufacturer &/or Repairer)
● Certificate of Proficiency Jeweller (Manufacturer &/or Repairer)
● TAFE Certificate in Jewellery (Trade)
● TAFE Certificate in Hand Engraving
● Certificate IV in Gemmological Studies
● Diploma in Gemmology
● Certificate III in Leadership and Training
● TAE10 Training and Assessment
Serving Clients Across the Globe
From his Southern Highlands workshop, Hamish creates bespoke, handcrafted pieces for clients locally and internationally.
Every commission is approached with the same principles that have defined the Burchell name for over a century:
● Integrity
● Precision
● Personal service
● Jewellery designed to become tomorrow’s heirlooms
At Burchell’s Jewellery, each piece carries not just beauty — but legacy.
