Every engagement ring should tell a story. For the team at Australian fine jewellery brand Cushla Whiting, this equals a design that is “modern yet timeless, sculptural yet wearable”. This ethos has seen the label become one of Australia’s leading fine jewellery houses since it was founded in 2014 by siblings Anna, Cushla and Hamish Whiting. And later this month a pop-up in the capital will allow London buyers to experience the brand in person.
The siblings, who work out of Melbourne, have a long history with gemmology. Their ex-rugby star dad Peter Whiting was one of New Zealand’s early diamond wholesalers in the 1970s, and Cushla says that this “legacy of gemmological expertise continues to guide everything” the brand does. The siblings’ diverse backgrounds in architecture, design and gemmology fuse to prioritise craftsmanship and transparency over trends.
Anyone who’s done their research on buying the perfect gemstone ring will know the importance of the four Cs: colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight – and thanks to Hamish’s decades-long background in gemmology and work with the prestigious Antwerp Diamond Bourse the brand has the edge on sourcing rare antique diamonds and stones.
Cushla Whiting’s focus on provenance sets a rare standard in the industry. By working with rough – uncut, unprocessed – diamonds, traceability can be guaranteed. “Our pieces are designed as modern heirlooms, made to be treasured, passed on, and always underpinned by ethical sourcing and integrity,” says Cushla. The brand is also the only Aussie jewellery label to develop its own cuts, which are part of its patented La Cush diamond collection.
This individuality is something they reckon will resonate strongly with the London customer base. “The jewellery exudes a quiet confidence and refinement that matches Londoners’ understated sensibility and enduring appreciation for thoughtful, lasting design,” says Cushla.
On November 21 and 22, Cushla and Hamish will host a by-appointment-only trunk show in a yet-to-be-confirmed central London location. The sessions will showcase designs and gemstones tailored to couples’ preferences; the brand will also offer bespoke commissions (it can work with existing heirlooms if desired).
For those arriving without an idea of what they’d like, Cushla notes that back in Australia the most sought-after gems recently have been “genuine antique and naturally coloured diamonds, such as champagnes and light yellows, and coloured sapphires, particularly green, teal and Australian parti stones”. As for cuts, “elongated cushion cut diamonds are also having a resurgence”, while designs are getting bold, with “chunky gold rings and bezel settings making a welcome comeback”.
Expect to be matched with a ring that feels “deeply personal, reflecting your journey, personality, and style. It isn’t about trends, but about capturing a sense of uniqueness, by balancing design, material and emotion. It should feel made for them, not simply chosen.”
Cushla Whiting will host a trunk show at a central London location on November 21 and 22. Join the waitlist here.
