Celebrating the Women of Dracakis, this International Women's Day
This International Women’s Day, it is our pleasure to present the inspiring stories of the wonderful women who make up our team here at Dracakis Jewellers and discuss the great strides that Dracakis has undertaken to maintain the status of an equal opportunity employer!
At Dracakis Jewellers, we pride ourselves on building our team from highly skilled and motivated individuals, and we welcome team members from a diverse range of backgrounds. Did you know that here at Dracakis, just over half our team are women, and so are 40% of our management team? For instance, our incredible workshop manager, herself a doting mother of a sweet young lady, plays a critical role in our team – keeping our workshop running smoothly and ensuring all of our custom jewellery meet our exceptional standards.
The women of Dracakis have such amazing and diverse stories, and how better to salute their hard work that to share those stories with you?
First up, we have Manon out of our Brookvale store!
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your journey that has led you here today?
I grew up in a small village in the south of France, near St Paul de Vence, a region rich in artistic heritage and surrounded by nature. Coming from a family of artists, my grandfather was an architect and carpenter, and my grandmother a talented painter. I was naturally immersed in creativity from an early age. This environment deeply influenced my decision to study creation of jewellery and history art in France, where I could further develop my passion for both craftsmanship and art.
After graduating, I had the change of working with nice creator like Etsy Grossman, which expanded my knowledge of the jewellery world. Following that, I embarked on a journey of travel, which ultimately brought me to Australia. It was here that I began working with Dracakis, where I've been able to refine my skills in custom jewellery design and the remodelling with diamonds and gems. This journey has been incredibly rewarding, and I continue to grow and learn in this craft.
2. What was it that drew you to the fashion industry, and to jewellery more specifically?
“Fashion has always been a part of my life, as my mother and grandmother are from Paris, and my mother ran a boutique specializing in natural and ethical clothing in the south of France. Being surrounded by such creative energy, it was only natural for me to be drawn to the world of design.
Jewellery, however, fascinated me in a different way. I loved the fine detail, the process of working with small, delicate pieces, and the skill involved in techniques such as soldering, waxing and gouache painting. I was also drawn to the idea of creating pieces that could be cherished and worn anywhere. Jewellery became a way for me to combine artistry with functionality, creating something that is both beautiful and meaningful.”
3. How do you feel that the jewellery industry supports women, and what more can we do to support them?
“The jewellery industry has made real progress in giving women more space, whether as designers, artisans, or business leaders. Ethical sourcing also plays a role, supporting female artisans and miners around the world.
But there's always more we can do. Encouraging women in traditionally male-dominated fields, like gemstone setting and metal-smithing, is important. Creating more mentorship and training opportunities will also help ensure that female talent continues to shape the future of jewellery.”
4. Thinking of successful women, who would you say inspires you?
“My grandmother has always been my greatest inspiration. She was a gifted artist and a wise, kind woman. She also played an important role in API Provence, an association dedicated to helping those in need. She had this rare balance of being free-spirited yet deeply responsible, creative yet compassionate.
Her kindness, strength, and wisdom continue to guide me. She taught me the value of respect, generosity, and staying true to yourself; qualities I carry with me in both my personal and professional life.”
5. Can you recommend some of your favourite Dracakis pieces to us?
“One of my favourite pieces is this stunning Australian pink and white diamond engagement ring. It combines rare Australian pink diamonds with a brilliant-cut centre stone, set in 18ct white and rose gold. I love how it blends timeless elegance with something truly unique pink diamonds are incredibly rare, making this ring a symbol of love, beauty, and individuality.
When it comes to breathtaking designs, one of my favourite pieces from Dracakis is the ring with the pear-shaped fancy bright green-yellow diamond at its heart. The 3.02ct centre stone is set in yellow gold claws, enhancing its warmth and brilliance, while a double halo of round brilliant-cut white diamonds (70x diamonds) adds an ethereal sparkle. The claw-set diamonds continue along the band, creating a seamless flow of light and luxury.
This masterpiece embodies Dracakis commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and rare, high-quality gems. The contrast between the fancy yellow diamond and the white diamonds surrounding it makes this ring both timeless and bold, perfect for those who seek elegance with a unique touch.”
It is our pleasure to now share Ninfa’s inspiring journey. Ninfa is another of our wonderful team out of Brookvale in Sydney’s north!
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your journey that has led you here today?
“Born in the Philippines, my heart has always been drawn to adventure, exploration, and the beauty of diverse cultures. This passion for discovery has led me to travel the world, gaining rich experiences that have shaped who I am today. Although I started with a degree in Elementary Education, life had other plans, leading me to Singapore for six years. There, I honed invaluable skills in problem-solving and adaptability that would shape my approach to every new challenge.
Moving to Canada, I found fulfilment as a caregiver, where I nurtured my compassion and strengthened my ability to connect with others. Yet, my heart yearned for creativity, and I found it in the world of fine jewellery. The moment I stepped into this industry, I knew I had found my true passion. The excitement of blending artistry and precision, crafting pieces that tell unique stories, and helping clients find treasures that will last a lifetime fills me with joy and purpose.
Every day is a beautiful adventure, and I’m incredibly excited to be part of this journey, creating unforgettable moments for those who walk through our doors. I can’t wait to continue making magic through the timeless beauty of jewellery!”
2.What was it that drew you to the fashion industry, and to jewellery more specifically?
“What drew me to the fashion industry, and jewellery in particular, is the unique combination of artistry, craftsmanship, and emotional resonance that both fields embody. Fashion allows for self-expression, but jewellery carries a deeper significance, often representing pivotal life moments, such as engagements, anniversaries, or milestones. Unlike fashion trends, jewellery transcends time, offering a lasting connection to personal stories. The ability to create something that combines both beauty and sentiment is what makes jewellery particularly compelling to me—it’s not just an accessory, but an expression of identity and emotion.”
3.How do you feel that the jewellery industry supports women, and what more do you think that we can do, as an industry, to support women?
“The jewellery industry has always celebrated women, both as creators and customers. While progress has been made, there’s still more to do like empowering women in craftsmanship, expanding leadership opportunities, and ensuring ethical sourcing that uplifts women at every level. Most importantly, we should continue to create an industry where women aren’t just present but are driving innovation and shaping its future.”
4.Thinking of successful women, who would you say inspires you?
“What truly inspires me about Corazon Aquino (the first Filipino female president) is how she transformed from a humble housewife into a symbol of courage and hope for an entire nation. After the assassination of her husband, Senator Benigno Aquino Jr, she stepped into the political arena despite having no prior experience, leading the peaceful People Power Revolution. This movement not only toppled a dictatorship but restored democracy to the Philippines. Aquino proved that leadership doesn’t always come from power or position, but from standing firm in what is right. Her legacy shows that ordinary people, when driven by conviction, can achieve extraordinary change.”
5.Can you recommend some of your favourite Dracakis pieces to us?
“One of my all-time favourite pieces is the Dracakis engagement ring set in 18ct white gold. It features a breathtaking round brilliant-cut centre diamond, beautifully claw-set, and surrounded by a sparkling halo of smaller diamonds. The real showstopper, though, is the pink diamonds that wrap around the band in an infinity design. I had the privilege of selling this ring to one of my best friends, and I’m still in awe of the design. The contrast between the timeless elegance of the diamonds and the bold, vibrant pop of pink is absolutely captivating. It’s a truly unique piece that blends classic beauty with a touch of modern sophistication definitely a ring that makes a statement and leaves a lasting impression.
One of the standout pieces I would highly recommend is the beautiful 18ct White Gold Tennis Bracelet. This piece features 57 round brilliant cut diamonds, totalling 6.00ct, set in a secure 4x claw setting to maximize the sparkle and brilliance of each diamond. Its classic design exudes elegance and sophistication, making it a perfect choice for both everyday wear and special occasions. Whether you're treating yourself or searching for a meaningful gift, this timeless bracelet offers unmatched quality and craftsmanship, ensuring it remains a cherished addition to any jewellery collection.”
Our next response comes from Emma, the head of our accounts department. Though a woman of few words, Emma plays a critical role in Dracakis as a whole as well as our management team!
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your journey that has led you here today?
"I would say that my mantra is to always find the joy in each day and to leave people better than you found them."
2. What was it that drew you to the fashion industry, and to jewellery more specifically?
"When you surround yourself with beautiful things it improves our physical and emotional well-being. It gives us inspiration. People who are surrounded by beauty in their daily lives consistently have higher levels of happiness."
3. How do you feel that the jewellery industry supports women, and what more do you think that we can do, as an industry, to support women?
"Women in leadership roles will ensure sustainability, equality and diversity. Women drive demand for the majority of the world’s jewellery. Our tastes and preferences shape the market and influence decisions at every step of the supply chain."
4. Thinking of successful women, who would you say inspires you?
"I am inspired by the true heroes of our community, people who every day dedicate their lives to improving and enhancing the quality of life of others."
5. Can you recommend some of your favourite Dracakis pieces to us?
"Impossible task, so many love pieces.
b)interlocking hearts bracelet
c) diamond hoop earrings, of various styles
Last, and certainly not least, we will hear from Kerry Dracakis! Kerry has been a crucial part of our team and family for decades. As a mother, Kerry is not just an inspiration to us but also her children!
“I have always been inclined to pursue more creative interests, having a musical background, and being interested in visual arts and communications.
When I met my husband Peter 25 years ago and discovered his creative background in jewellery, as a diamond setter and jeweller, it was a great opportunity to explore my creative side in the context of the jewellery industry. Gradually, I have been fortunate to grow my knowledge in this field through my close relationship with the family and through working with their very specialised and experienced team. It has been a privilege and a very self- evolving experience. I am truly inspired by the professionalism and expertise with which my husband Peter and his siblings, Fotina, Nicholas and Theodore have taken this company and continued to grow it as a successful business. Their hard work and commitment have been a positive influence on all of our children as they embark on their own learning and career paths with a similar sense of business acumen.
As a mother, in recognition of International Women's Day, it is most important to encourage my daughter, Helena, as she grows into a young woman, to express her creative side and her own points of view without inhibitions. It has been inspiring to watch her do so. My hope is that she will continue to feel empowered and supported as she pursues her own personal and business goals in the future.”
There are so many incredible and inspiring stories to tell here at Dracakis Jewellers. This International Women’s Day, share your stories with us and help be an inspiration to women and girls around the world!
