Meet the maker: Kate Higgins, goldsmith, platinumsmith, jeweller

Kate Higgins has almost two decades experience in the Jewellery trade, having learnt under some of Melbourne's most reputable handmade jewellers. She launched her jewellery design business, Eli Speaks, in 2014. A member of the Gold and Silversmiths Guild of Australia, Kate’s specialty is Art Deco-inspired designs created by hand with high-quality gemstones and precious metals.

Kate’s ready-to-wear collections combine Art Deco design influences with inspiration from ancient Mayan architecture (of Mexico).

Bespoke jewellery made in Melbourne

Kate regularly works with clients to design and craft one-of-a-kind wedding and engagement rings, or to remodel heirloom jewellery to give it a new life. All jewellery is designed and hand formed by Kate in her private studio in the Century Building, Melbourne CBD, Australia. 

For more detailed information on the process for custom designed jewellery, visit the FAQ page.

Who is Eli Speaks?

The Eli Speaks name is inspired by an ancestor of Kate's named Eli Higgins. Eli's life during the late 1800s is recorded in the barest form — only a curious karmic poem written about his lack of speech and a father’s regret. Thought to be mute, Eli’s efforts to communicate to those around him were difficult, until the day his father died, relieving him of his “curse”.

"I have been fascinated with Eli's story since I discovered it in a family history book as a teenager. Through creating precious objects, I feel an affinity with his efforts to communicate. Words are not the sole carriers of meaning, precious sentimental objects can convey more meaning and history, than mere words. I aim to create future heirlooms for my clients, to provide a vessel for their own feelings, history, and values.”

Watch the Eli Speaks origin story: