Hello, my name is Annette Garland, Nettie to my work companions.

This year I think I have become a rare breed, having worked for G.F. Williams for 50 years. Firstly, with Geoffrey senior and then later with his son Jason, who was just 4 years old when we were first introduced. I have been asked by one of our newest members of the team, Hannah, to contribute to our social media. After my first reaction of ‘Blog off’, on second thoughts it occurred to me that I might have something to offer 50 years ago, this year Geoffrey Williams – our ‘founding father’ if you like -employed me in an apprenticeship to learn the skills of stone sorting/grading. This involved matching thousands of stone sets intended for cluster rings, then still a staple in this country’s manufacturing jewellery industry, was a baptism of fire. Now, I find it amusing how worried our young trainees are when they ask what I think of their matching. It’s not just about colour I tell them and is usually the start of an interesting conversation.

Within a few years I was joining Geoffrey on his buying trips, traveling the world sourcing precious gemstones and diamonds, which was interesting, sometimes fun but always hard work. In those days, we purchased parcels called original lots. These were mixed size, shapes, and ungraded qualities from one cutting run, with the potential for finding within, high value goods at a reasonable cost. This is where the skills I had learned were put to good use.

The greatest profit is in the end of your tweezers, was the mantra. This trade has changed drastically over my 50 years, but I am not sorry to have dedicated my working life to it. I especially enjoy watching our new younger members of the team approach the job in a fresh and innovative way.

I think it is much harder for this new generation of jewellery traders. Qualifications are important but practical experience is key and companies offering that chance are not easy to find.

Jason has endeavoured over the past 10 years to give as many students as possible some chance to gain that experience. Many have gone on to have employment with G.F. Williams, but have also gone on to become great assets in the wider trade.

I find I have enjoyed this nostalgic look back, after all. I hope you have too.

I’m now leaving social media in far more capable hands.

Best wishes

Nettie