With jewels, gems, diamonds and pearls in his blood — his family started York Jewellers in 1974 — 32-year-old Matthew decided to go out on his own five years ago.

After studying and working at Hatton Garden — the traditional heart of the jewellery trade in London — Matthew returned home and set up on Ocean St before moving to his latest, state-of-the-art jewellery boutique and workshop on Queen St.

As husband to Nicole, and dad to two daughters, Amity, 4, and Thea, 18 months, Matthew’s creative, business and home life is full — but he oozes passion and dedication.

Showing me around his store and his collections of pink diamonds, Autore pearls, exquisite sapphires and his ready-to-wear pieces, I feel like a kid in a couture jewel candy store.

With a real sensibility, a life of observation, experience and a swag of awards for his designs, when Matthew found his new store he knew exactly what he wanted from the space which leads out to a beautifully tiled courtyard, with walls painted in the best shade of fuchsia.

A jewellery box feel was the inspiration when Matthew engaged Woollahra interior designer, Melissa Collison and lighting gurus, Electrolight.

Both Collison and the team at Electrolight, headed by Donn Salisbury, have focused on everything from restaurants, bars, hotels and creative business spaces.

They now have to their name a jewellery boutique that has a 24/7 projection running, so you can see, at anytime, the mastercraftsman at work.

Quite simply, Matthew wanted a gorgeous new store to house his stunning, bespoke jewellery collection.

“It was important for Matthew to have a space where clients feel inspired, comfortable and also had privacy when required,” says Melissa.

“When I first met Matthew he was everything that embodies the perfectly modern gentleman. While we looked through some of his pieces, I began to get a feeling of how we could work together to create the perfect space.”

Between the two of them, Matthew and Melissa opted to go glam aiming for an understated glamour referencing a Parisian salon with powder blues, chalk whites, alabaster, gold leaf, embroidered silks, bronze, brass and wool.

“The space is long and narrow with a large glazed shopfront and it took me back to when I was a little girl and the jewellery box with the twirling ballerina when the lid was opened,” says Melissa. “So we created a plinth in gold leaf that slowly rotates in the window and holds a sparkling collection of Matthew’s jewels.”

Inside the store there are recessed arches — a nod to the arcades you see in Paris — so the jewellery can be displayed elegantly.

“They are trimmed in gold leaf and embroidered in dusty grey silk.

“Because Matthew is a master craftsman it’s very important his clients can see him at work,” adds Melissa.

“The space between the boutique and his work bench unite so you can watch him work. It’s an incredibly dynamic approach to design.”

Why did you decide to move to Queen St? I had spent four-and-a-half years on Ocean St in my beautiful, yet small and intimate, boutique. The move to Queen St was the next step in my jewellery career. My business has been, and still is, growing as I enjoy making the most amazing jewels and family heirlooms for my clients. Having the extra space allows my clients to enjoy the experience that little bit more while seeing how the process works.

What was most important to you in your vision for the design of the new boutique? I wanted to showcase my attention to detail in the fittings and finishes while also allowing for the jewellery to be the focus. Using elegant and refined materials, such as the silk on the door fronts. The rug was custom made by Cadry Carpets and helps the flow of the boutique, inviting you deeper into the space.

Why did you decide to have an open workshop?

It was a must have, as I have a strong belief in showing off the craft of jewellery and giving a transparent view of the industry. Trust is one of the most important factors and I hold this close to my heart. I believe jewellery is a fascinating craft and being able to share and educate my clients to understand the benefits of handmade jewellery in a traditional method can bring another level of detail.

How did you feel when the boutique was finally open? There was a sense of relief, pure happiness and joy. I am so proud of the space.

What makes you most proud about the boutique?

There are far too many things to choose just one. The 24ct gold leaf features are a real highlight along with the handmade brass fittings on the displays. The Cadry’s handmade rug helps with the flow and the silk fabric doors from Rubelli in Venice.

What has feedback been like from your customers? My clients love the space, the attention to detail and want to spend time with me enjoying it. I wanted it to be comfortable, open and inviting. They love the flow and integration of the showroom on to the open workshop.

How did you know Melissa Collison was the right person to work with you ? I was introduced to her through the Signature Prints team of Helen and David Lennie. Helen said it was a must to be working with Melissa as she is the best in the game. She would understand my attention to detail and needs. Once I met Melissa, I just knew we would get along and understand each other.