Hovig Shannakian is passionate about handcrafting superb jewellery from the finest materials. With over 20 years of industry experience, Hovig opened his Melbourne based Shannakian Fine Jewellery with his wife Arpee in 2007, and has become one of Australia’s most sought-after custom fine jewellers.

Growing up in Lebanon, Hovig took an apprenticeship in jewellery setting and moved out on his own in Beirut when he was just 13. While it seems almost unbelievable that one could find their calling in life at such a young age, that’s exactly how Hovig discovered his obsession for diamonds, jewels and designing unique, irresistible pieces.

Shannakian Fine Jewellery is a true family business that was born out of a fairy-tale like story of love, bravery and determination. Arpee and Hovig’s families originated from the same village in Lebanon. One summer when Arpee and her family were visiting the village from Australia, she and Hovig realised there was more to their relationship than just friendship. Over the next 7 years, their romance blossomed via long-distance as the two would travel back and forth between Lebanon and Australia.

Arpee could see Hovig’s potential and together they agreed that they would have wonderful opportunities for their family in Australia. Without speaking a word of English, Hovig moved to Melbourne and started work as a jeweller. Despite the initial challenges, Hovig learnt English through his interactions with customers and built his reputation for being a craftsman, not just a jeweller, someone who strives to deliver beyond his client’s wildest dreams. Don’t we all want that? Especially if it’s your engagement ring.

For Hovig, jewellery making is more than just a career – it is an artform. This unrelenting quest for perfection has seen Shannakian Fine Jewellery become the go-to for discerning jewellery lovers looking for modern, glamorous and elegant design, including a number of celebrity clientele including Real Housewives of Melbourne star Lydia Schiavello.

Hovig sources premium materials, including exquisite diamonds and jewels from his international network of the world’s leading wholesalers. Offering an extensive selection of engagement rings, wedding rings, dress rings, pendants, earrings, bracelets and more, Hovig and his team of craftsmen hand-make each and every piece in their Melbourne based workshop. Whilst the extensive showroom is home to many unique pieces, Shannakian Fine Jewellery is renowned for their custom orders, in particular, engagement rings, where each request is met with Hovig’s dedication and quest for perfection.

Visits to Shannakian Fine Jewellery are via appointment only, ensuring customers are given Hovig’s undivided attention so that he can precisely capture their vision, be it for an engagement ring or statement necklace. Recently renovated, the showroom has a modern, welcoming atmosphere where guests can relax and enjoy the luxurious, fresh space while they explore the world of Shannakian Fine Jewellery.

So if you are in the hunt for a new custom Bling piece, I highly recommend giving Shannakian Fine Jewellery a buzz and heading into their showroom.