Beginnings-Vermilion Jewellery

Vermilion was founded in 2017 by Leanne Duckmanton, though its foundations were laid much earlier — in a family of artists and entrepreneurs, and in the precision of a chemistry lab.

Jewellery was present from the beginning. My mother was a devoted collector of fine jewels. A great uncle ran a family jewellery business for decades, training jewellers and watchmakers in his craft. 

A formal education in chemistry sharpened discipline, structure and material understanding. Years in the lab refined patience and technical rigour. The return to the arts marked a convergence of discipline and design.

The name Vermilion is taken from the historic cinnabar pigment prized in fine art, once more valuable than gold. It represents intensity, rarity and permanence — values that continue to shape the house.

Creative direction is grounded in the principles of fine art and brought into form through solid 14ct gold and individually selected natural gemstones. 

Based in Australia, with dual ties to New Zealand, the studio draws on colour, light and a sculptural sensibility shaped by fine art and high jewellery traditions.

Solid gold remains the foundation of Vermilion, selected for its intrinsic value and long-standing place in fine jewellery.

Vermilion continues to evolve in its creative direction, material standards and industry relationships.

Creative Director 
Vermilion Jewellery