F Around And Find Out
Holly Howe didn’t take a traditional route to becoming one of New Zealand’s standout contemporary jewellers, but that’s probably given her an edge. Based in Dunedin, Holly has built her craft on curiosity, a willingness to embrace the unknown, and plenty of resilience.
“Honestly, ‘F around and find out’ is the best way to sum up how I’ve handled most of my jewellery career,” she joked recently on social media. “Being self-taught means there’s been a lot of trial and error, but that’s where the magic happens.”
Holly didn’t always work in jewellery. With a background in product design, she made the leap from sketching objects on paper to working with metals and gemstones. Her inspiration comes from clean geometric lines and architectural forms, which give her pieces a modern yet timeless feel. Working with sterling silver, gold, and semi-precious stones, she strikes a balance between precise craftsmanship and playful creativity. The result? Jewellery that’s bold, sharp, and effortlessly striking.
Her work is distinctive—bold and architectural, combining clean lines with sharp angles and a raw, tactile quality. “Modern, but with a timeless sensibility” is how Holly describes her aesthetic. And while her designs might look polished, she says the creative process is anything but straightforward. “Mistakes are going to happen,” she says, “but they often lead you to something unexpected—and better.” That openness to experimentation is reflected in her collections, which feel fresh and full of personality.
But Holly’s not just about crafting beautiful pieces. Storytelling is at the heart of her bespoke designs. Whether she’s creating a custom engagement ring or transforming an old heirloom into something new, she sees every project as a collaboration. “Jewellery should mean something to the person wearing it,” she explains. “It’s not just an accessory—it’s a connection.” This personal approach has earned her a loyal following and glowing praise from clients, who love her ability to turn their stories into one-of-a-kind designs.
Holly’s journey hasn’t been traditional, but that’s precisely what makes her work so special. By embracing trial and error, Holly has developed a signature style that speaks to clients who value originality, craftsmanship, and a hint of daring. For Holly, creating jewellery isn’t just about making something beautiful; it’s about making something meaningful.
