ON THE gemfields of the Central Highlands, one town’s name sums up the area’s main attraction - Sapphire.
At Sapphire, a superb collection of investment sapphires and unique handcrafted jewellery can be found at McArthur’s Jewellers.
There can be a big difference between the work of people who have gone through the trade and those who are self taught. Andrew McArthur is one of very few trade qualified jewellers on the gemfields, and quality is his hallmark.
With 29 years of experience in all facets of the industry, Andrew and his wife Lorna have established their business in Rockhound Road. All of the jewellery is made on the premises using locally mined and cut sapphires.
“We have cutters here who don’t just churn out assembly line stuff. They’re not frightened to try something new, and the result is that we have some very unusual and beautiful pieces,” said Andrew.
With the parti colours that are found locally (sapphires that feature two or even three colours in the same stone) there are rarely two the same.
“Because there are so many colours in sapphires, most people have a colour already in mind so it’s a matter of shopping around and finding that specific stone. Yellow is a favourite because it really sparkles. Or someone might want a rare pink. Then they can match it to a setting they like.”
There really is something to suit every pocket, from $25 to $35,000!
McArthur’s have also designed and manufactured stunning art union prizes for Gemfest for more than a decade, with the money raised from the art union going back into the community or continuing promotions of Gemfest.
Blue Gem Tourist Park
Sapphire Qld 4702
Phone (07) 4985 4162
Fossicking park, powered sites, cabins, pool, shop, equipment hire |
If you’re looking for accommodation in Sapphire, you can’t go past the Blue Gem Tourist Park. Max and Fiona Moore bring a great sense of friendliness to the park, which is on the banks of Retreat Creek, where the very first gemstones were found 130 years ago! If you’re towing a van, they have powered sites available, otherwise you can book a cabin. A shop sells everything from cafe items to fuel and you can hire fossicking equipment as well. A meet and greet session each day keeps the atmosphere friendly, and if you’re there on a Sunday, join the disc bowls competition.
Rubyvale Main Street Cafe
Rubyvale Qld 4702
Phone (07) 4981 0193
Open seven days, meals,m cappuccino, fantastic burgers |
Heading along the road to the next town on the gemfields, make sure you drop in for a meal at the Rubyvale Main Street Cafe. Open from 8.00am for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the cafe serves meals including seafood baskets, steak and quiche. They also have burgers, chips and home-made pizzas that are so good people come out from Emerald for them! You’ll find jewellery, souvenirs, video and DVD rental all under the same roof.
