Our Team

Principal Master Jeweller

Irene is the visionary force behind Irene Byrne & Co, a distinguished jewellery industry figure with an extraordinary 48 years of experience in the field. Beginning her journey at the age of 16, she has devoted her life to the art of antique jewellery, establishing herself as an authority in the field.

Her impeccable style is reflected in the exceptional pieces she acquires, each selected with a perfectionism and attention to detail that is unmatched. Irene ensures that every piece in our collection exhibits museum quality craftsmanship, showcasing not only the artistry of the past but also her exquisite taste and discerning eye for beauty.

As the cornerstone of our business, Irene draws clients in with her generosity and profound knowledge of antique jewellery, craftsmanship and design. Every interaction is an opportunity for clients to learn and experience the depth of her expertise, making her an invaluable resource in the world of antique jewellery.

Irene's commitment to excellence and her passion for preserving the artistry of antique pieces are what set her apart. Her ability to curate collections that resonate with both historical significance and modern elegance has solidified her status as a leading figure in the industry. Under Irene's guidance, the business continues to set new standards, inspiring others with her unique vision and unparalleled dedication to the craft.

Master Jeweller and Head Gemmologist

Andrew Byrne is an influential leader in the jewellery industry, bringing a blend of extensive knowledge, technical prowess, and invaluable hands-on experience to the business. His academic journey is marked by excellence, having graduated with a Diploma of Gemmology in 2015, where he received the prestigious NSW Management Committee Award for achieving the highest aggregate marks of practical and theory in the state. In 2019, he further honed his skills by completing a Certificate III in Jewellery Manufacture at Design Centre Enmore, equipping him with a practical and technical approach to the manufacturing side of the business.

As a qualified Diamond Grader, Andrew's expertise in evaluating and selecting diamonds adds yet another layer of excellence to his professional career. His passion for rare and collectible jewellery is unparalleled. He travels both locally and internationally to acquire extraordinary pieces, with a keen interest in works by renowned master jewellers such as Cartier, Tiffany, and Boucheron, as well as the more elusive maestros like Raymond Yard, Hennell, Renée Boivin, and Janesich.

Dividing his time between the workshop and the office, Andrew is perpetually in pursuit of the next extraordinary piece to enhance the store's offerings. His dedication to finding exceptional jewellery ensures that each addition to the collection is nothing short of spectacular.

Creative Director & Antique Jewellery Specialist

Jana Hunt is an esteemed Antique Jewellery Specialist with over 22 years of experience in the jewellery industry. As a third generation jeweller, designer, and gemstone specialist, she possesses a profound understanding of design history, along with the intricate details and craftsmanship inherent in antique jewellery pieces.

Born into the industry, Jana was drawn to the world of jewellery through her love of history, gemstones, and design. In 2007, she attained a Diploma in Gemmology, solidifying her foundational knowledge in the field. She furthered her academic pursuits by graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Design from the University of New South Wales, all while actively participating in the family business.

Her extensive experience in high end fashion, working with prestigious labels such as Lanvin, Givenchy, Chloé, Marni and Dries Van Noten at Belinda International, as well as working at the Corner Store in Paddington, has greatly influenced her design aesthetic. Showcasing younger designers like Isabel Marant, The Row, Christopher Kane, and Céline in Sydney has allowed Jana to curate antique jewellery that blends elegantly with modern fashion.

In 2017, she enhanced her qualifications by earning a Diploma of Diamond Grading, refining her ability to select only the highest quality stones for our collections. Jana’s extensive knowledge of historical design techniques and period fashion informs her approach to creating bespoke jewellery that resonates with modern aesthetics and historical significance.

Her dedication to preserving the artistry of antique jewellery and showcasing its relevance in a contemporary context underscores her invaluable contributions to our team. Jana’s unwavering commitment to excellence and integrity in craftsmanship continues to inspire both colleagues and clients alike, making her a trusted advisor and an indispensable asset to our team and customers.

Senior Sales and Content Specialist

Charlotte is a dynamic force in our team, seamlessly blending her full-time role in sales with her position as the head of all social media creative content. Joining us in 2015 with a solid background in Naturopathy, she quickly immersed herself in the fascinating world of gemstones and jewellery, mastering their rich history with remarkable efficiency.

Affectionately regarded as our Queen of social media, Charlotte is a familiar face both in-store and online. She passionately updates our Instagram with the latest and most exciting acquisitions, captivating our audience with her engaging content.

Her natural and grounded approach brings a refreshing perspective to the business, effortlessly sharing her vast knowledge with clients. Charlotte provides an insightful, spiritual lens through which our antique pieces can be appreciated. Her kind, calm, and mindful nature makes her an invaluable member of our team, as she continues to enrich our business with her expertise and creativity.

Jewellery Associate

Travis' journey to becoming a valued team member at our jewellery store is a tale of resilience, creativity, and genuine kindness. His background in horticulture has gifted him with an eye for beauty and a nurturing touch, qualities that seamlessly translate into his work with jewellery and customers alike.

In the store, Travis approaches each day with dedication and a genuine passion for helping others. His ability to connect with clients on a personal level stems from his life experiences, which have shaped him into a compassionate and understanding individual. Whether he's assisting a customer in selecting the perfect piece of jewellery or sharing stories behind the gemstones, Travis's enthusiasm and warmth create a welcoming atmosphere that customers truly appreciate.

Travis's life story is one of overcoming challenges, and it's this strength of character that makes him such a beloved figure in our store. His honour and integrity shine through in every interaction, and his kindness leaves a lasting impression on everyone he meets. As he continues to grow and contribute to our team, Travis remains a shining example of the power of perseverance and the impact of genuine human connection.