Jeweller making his mark on Dunsborough

May 10, 2025 BY

Third-generation jeweller Dawid Wisniewska and his wife Agata from Mirandum Jewellery. Image Supplied

Since 1985, Dunsborough has grown from a quaint, sleepy beachside town to the bustling ‘must-visit’ destination it has become today, where visitors and locals alike discover unique shopping experiences.

While modern retail chains continue to pop up in growing regional centres, Dunsborough maintains its distinctive character through independent artisans, like the newly opened Mirandum Jewellery.

Third-generation jeweller Dawid Wisniewska and his wife Agata brought their craft to Dunsborough’s shores after moving from Poland to Australia in 2012.

“It was a leap of faith,” Dawid said, “but living in Dunsborough was the best decision we ever made.”

During challenging economic times, Dawid’s grandfather established his jewellery shop in post-war Poland.

While many townspeople struggled to afford basic necessities, they possessed family gemstones and gold – assets more reliable than currency.

These precious items became the foundation of his business, with locals trusting him to transform their treasured possessions into jewellery, often working in secrecy to avoid unwanted attention from authorities.

Dawid’s grandfather sought to expand his expertise and formed a discreet partnership with an Italian jeweller.

The craft was soon deeply embedded in family life.

“Jewellery making was as commonplace for me as it is for a kid picking up a surfboard living in Dunsborough… it was part of everything we did,” Dawid said.

His grandfather shaped the future of jewellery making in their town by establishing the Guild of Goldsmiths, training a new generation of artisans.

After five years of study, these apprentices earned their Master Jeweller certification – a requirement for opening their own shops.

Following this same path, Dawid became a certified Master Jeweller.

A pivotal moment came when Dawid received an offer from the Royal Academy of Art in Belgium, which he calls his “sliding door moment”.

“It was an amazing opportunity. We knew that path might lead to working for big designer brands like Louis Vuitton or Tiffany.”

Fresh from completing demanding studies and Master Jeweller certification, Dawid yearned to explore. Adventures took the couple to Mauritius and Egypt as SCUBA instructors before their love of the ocean brought them to the South West.

“I have seen many jewellers who reach the level of Master Diploma finding complacency in making a standard ring according to the craft. But for me, that just wasn’t enough.”

Instead, Dawid creates unique collections which tell stories about the world and art history. His greatest satisfaction comes from helping families reimagine heirloom pieces, which often carry deep emotional value, becoming treasured stories passed from generation to generation.

“My sense of aesthetics has been built over the course of my life, as well as the different cultures I’ve lived in – from Europe to the Middle East and now here. This is what I bring to my jewellery making: culture and nature.”

In a world of mass production, Dawid’s artistry adds another layer to Dunsborough’s unique charm, proving that local creativity continues to shape the town’s distinctive character.

Discover Dawid’s collections and custom design options at: www.mirandumjewellery.com or visit Mirandum Jewellery at 50/52 Dunn Bay Rd, Dunsborough.

With thanks to Dave Reed.