From Byron Bay, With Love: My First Blog Post. Jewellery Handcrafted Byron Bay Australia

Anastasia Serrano
Aug 1
5 min read

Updated: Sep 4

Hi, I’m Anastasia — the maker behind The Delicate Gypsy. I create handmade, one-of-a-kind jewellery from my studio just outside of Byron Bay Town.

Welcome to The Delicate Gypsy!

I’m so glad you’re here. I’ve had my website for almost a year now and recently realised… maybe I should start a blog! At first, I thought blogs were a bit too early 2000s. But after diving into SEO research and learning how helpful a blog can be for connecting with others and being found online, I figured: why not? Naturally, I jumped on the idea — and now, almost eight months later, here we are with my very first post. I hope I don’t disappoint!

A Little Backstory

I’ve always believed jewellery is more than just adornment. It holds memory. It tells a story. It connects us to places, people, and moments that shape who we are and shows our art! You are sharing with the world your carefully curated look. Growing up, I was mesmerised by some of the jewellery my mother and grandmother wore. As I got older and stepped into “adult life,” the desire to create never left me.

So, I took an evening class at my local TAFE in Sydney’s Inner West — and I was hooked. I fell in love with the process immediately. For years, I dreamed of creating gemstone jewellery, though I never imagined I could do it without formal training. I stuck with making accessories and sold pieces to friends and family, purely for the joy of it.

Then in 2018, we packed up our lives and left for what we called our “European adventure” — almost four months overseas. When we returned, we decided to relocate to Byron Bay… and we’ve been here ever since.

How It Really Began

I began creating accessories and necklaces, including many pieces using the "Evil Eye" charms. Fast forward to a couple of years later, everything changed — for all of us. (IYKYK 2020) During those uncertain times, I found solace in creating. But the materials I’d relied on for years were no longer available. Shipments were delayed by months, and I couldn’t access my usual supplies.

So I thought, If I can’t source the materials to make jewellery… I’ll learn to make them myself. That was the start of my handcrafted journey. I began learning silversmithing and discovered the ancient technique of lost wax casting. I took more classes, experimented endlessly, and slowly began creating the pieces I had only ever dreamed of making.

The Art of Slow Craftsmanship

Each piece I create is handcrafted slowly and intentionally, using fine metals and ethically sourced gemstones. Many of my ideas begin with a walk along the beach, a texture found in nature, or a feeling of nostalgia. I’m particularly drawn to materials that hold meaning — from Australian opals and freshwater pearls to ancient symbols from my Greek heritage.

What Sets My Jewellery Apart

The most rewarding aspect of crafting handmade jewellery is the individuality it embodies. While factory-made designs fill the market, I want my pieces to stand out because they come from the heart. They represent not just ornaments, but expressions of personality and stories waiting to be shared.

I am not a fine jeweller. I want to be that jeweller that bridges the gap, where it is all handmade in my studio, but using various metals and gems. I particularly focus on statement rings and gemstone jewellery that resonate emotionally with wearers. I am and feel like I always will be in love with pearls. Recently, however, I have fallen in love with Australian opals and their beautiful play of colour, which may seem understated but are so known to be part of Australia. Wherever possible, I make sure my gemstones are ethically sourced, ensuring that every piece contributes positively to the broader world.

My Connection to the Land and Sea

Living in Byron Bay, I’m constantly surrounded by inspiration. The sea, the rainforest, the changing sky — it all filters into my work. Take the sunsets; they turn the whole sky into a canvas of soft pinks, oranges, blues, and purples… (My favourite colour is sunset — which probably explains my obsession with opals.)

In a world that moves fast, I’ve made the choice to slow down. Each piece of jewellery is made by hand, with care and intention. Sometimes it takes me hours just to carve and refine a single ring. But that time is part of what makes each piece special — and real.

The Heart Behind Every Piece

The beauty of handcrafted jewellery is that no two pieces are ever the same. In a market filled with mass-produced designs, I create pieces that come from the heart. Every item holds a bit of my story, and I hope it becomes part of yours too. I focus mainly on statement rings and gemstone jewellery — pieces that resonate emotionally. Australian opals, freshwater pearls, tourmalines, and garnets are amongst my favourite gems. Having said that, I am always discovering new gems and want to create using so many (I am always distracted by pretty gems and crystals!)

Wherever possible, I choose to keep things made in Australia. I do my best to source materials from our incredible local businesses, supporting other small makers and ethical suppliers. My wax pieces are cast into metal by reputable casting houses and refineries in Sydney that use recycled sterling silver and gold — a choice that’s both sustainable and meaningful.

Most importantly, I’ve made a promise to myself to keep each piece handmade by me. Every ring, pendant, and carving that leaves my studio has passed through my hands — not a factory. That personal connection is something I never want to lose.

A Peek at What’s to Come

I’m so excited to share more with you here. This journal will include behind-the-scenes looks into my process, stories behind special pieces, and a closer look at some of the incredible gemstones I use. I’ll also share tips for caring for your jewellery and styling inspiration for those who love to wear their pieces every day.

I hope this becomes a space for jewellery lovers, makers, and curious souls to connect. Let’s celebrate beauty, meaning, and slow craftsmanship — together.

With Love from Byron Bay

Thank you for reading my first blog post. Whether you're a fellow maker, a jewellery lover, or simply someone who appreciates things made with care — I’m so grateful you’re here. Here’s to sharing the journey with you.

Anastasia x

The Delicate Gypsy

P.S. If you’d like to follow along, keep an eye out for the little pop-up — you can subscribe there to receive early access to new pieces, behind-the-scenes updates, and studio stories. You can also find me on Instagram and TikTok for more glimpses into my creative process and life by the sea.

Jewellery Handcrafted in Byron Bay Australia