Roger Withers

Apart from six hours of instruction in Coober Pedy, South Australia, I am a self taught artist. I exhibit my work at Perth Hills Artisan Markets, and some of my pieces are on permanent display with Charles Edward, Diamond Jeweller in London Court, Perth.
I cut and polish rough Australian opals sourced from Coober Pedy and Lightning Ridge, then set them in sterling silver settings, most of which are my own designs. I have also created settings in gold and, more recently, bronze.
My style is intentionally simple, allowing the natural beauty of each opal to remain the focus. I begin by carving the setting in wax, then have it cast before grinding and polishing the finished piece. I then select a suitable rough opal, cut and polish it, and fit it into the setting.
All of my work is created in my home workshop.