The Rutherford family has a long history with jewellery. In 1953 Bruce Rutherford opened the first store in country Victoria. After two years spent with Sotheby’s in London from 1966, Bruce set up his business in the city. Today, two generations of the family manage the company’s three stores in Melbourne, two of which have been located in Collins Street’s Paris End for over 20 years. Wesley Rutherford is the company’s Managing Director and, with a strong business and management background, brings vision and drive to Rutherford. His ability to source unique and beautiful pieces of jewellery is displayed in all the Rutherford stores. In 1993 Melbourne’s first specialist pearl store opened, and is managed by Bruce's daughter Ruth Close. The pearl shop showcases an extensive collection of Australian South Sea strands in all sizes and shapes, as well as a huge range of Tahitian, Japanese Akoya and Freshwater pearls. Strands, pendants, earrings, bracelets and rings are all available – ready-made by Rutherford’s fine jewellers – or the option exists to design your own from the stores large selection of loose pearls of all varieties. Bruce’s granddaughter Bronwyn Burnett – a qualified gemologist – manages the Rutherford store, specializing in fine jewellery and silver. With the elegance and uniqueness in mind, an array of coloured gemstones and diamonds are available to you, from original Victorian and Art Deco pieces through to something modern and timeless. Take the time to wander up to Rutherford’s upstairs silver gallery, where Australia’s largest retail collection of antique silver is on sale.