It has been announced today that Sydney jeweller, Nicola Cerrone has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). Owner and founder of The House of Cerrone, Nicola operates the largest handmade jewellery workshop in Sydney. The award honours his contribution to the arts, manufacturing and business sectors.
Nicola migrated to Australia from Lanciano Italy at age 12 with his mother and sisters in search for a brighter future. His passion for what would become his life’s work in jewellery making was ignited when he was offered an apprenticeship under a Master Jeweller in Sydney’s central shopping district.
Nicola broadened his jewellery making skills during a trip to Europe where he learnt from the best artists and masters of the craft. Upon his return in 1972, he started creating his own pieces from his terrace in Leichhardt, New South Wales. This would later become The House of Cerrone Boutique, which he opened in 1974 with his wife Carmela.
Nicola has enjoyed many accolades in his career including being commissioned by the Argyle Diamond Mine to design and create an exhibition piece for investors (later known as the million dollar necklace) made from hundreds of cognac, champagne and white diamonds, totalling an unprecedented 230 carats. In 1998, his impressive Elizabethan Ruff creation set with 559 round brilliant-cut diamonds, earned the De Beers Diamonds International Award presented in Paris. He has also received the Key to the City (il Frentano d’Oro) in his hometown of Lanciano Abruzzo, Italy in recognition of his successes in Australia.
Nicola’’s ongoing success can be attributed to his belief in constant adaptation and diversity. He fosters the new generation of artisans in his workshop, a group from varied backgrounds who add flair through different techniques and cultural influences. Nicola now showcases his remarkable creations at Leichhardt and his Sydney Castlereagh and Melbourne CBD stores.
Nicola stated, “It is with great pride and gratitude that I accept this award on behalf of all migrants, who have embraced Australia, and all the greatness it has to offer”.
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