Our Story

Legacy of Craftsmanship Since 1919

Daniel comes from a family of jewellers and is a fifth-generation jeweller who truly loves and has a deep passion for his craft. Daniel's family has been in service to the community since 1919, when his great-grandfather, Herbert Whitney, opened Whitney's Jewellers in Dubbo. The family tradition continued through his grandfather, Bob Whitney, who carried on the legacy with the same dedication to quality and personalised service that had defined the business from the very beginning. In 1955, Peter Carolan joined his grandfather Herb and his uncle Bob, and together they built a solid business renowned for quality jewellery, giftware and watchmaking. Peter dedicated most of his life to Whitney's, spending over 50 years in the business alongside his lovely wife Patsy, their eye for detail and exceptional customer service further growing the reputation of the family name. Today, Whitney's Jewellers continues to operate in Dubbo under the ownership of Daniel's cousin, Gina Brown, who joined the family business in 1995 and, together with her dedicated team, carries on the tradition of exceptional products and outstanding service. Now recognised as Dubbo City's longest established jeweller, Whitney's stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Whitney family.

Daniel's journey in the jewellery industry began over 24 years ago when he started an apprenticeship with his cousin Craig Carolan—Peter's son—at Kings Hall Jewellers in Dubbo, a business Craig himself opened. Daniel owes so much of his knowledge and skill to Craig, who taught him traditional bench methods from the very start. Those early years gave Daniel a solid grounding in jewellery manufacturing and repair work—skills that still form the foundation of every piece he creates.

After many wonderful years in Dubbo, Daniel and his wife Doreen made the move to Port Macquarie in 2014 and opened D&D Designer Jewellers. Here, Daniel specialises in custom jewellery design and handcrafting quality bespoke fine jewellery and engagement rings that are built to stand the test of time. His goal is always the same: to create a treasured keepsake that can be kept in the family for generations to come.
With over 24 years of bench and design experience, Daniel works closely with each client to bring out an expression of themselves—an expression of their heart. He believes jewellery should be something truly unique that speaks to an individual's essence and becomes an extension of their persona. Whether it's an engagement ring, wedding band, or anniversary gift, Daniel pours his heart into every piece.

Daniel combines traditional handcrafting with modern techniques like CAD design to help with visual representation. This allows clients to become part of the creative process, working alongside Daniel through every step. Together, they ensure the final result is everything they've dreamed of—and more. Daniel is passionate about the beautiful diamonds and gems he uses in his custom creations. For special occasions—engagements, weddings, anniversaries, or just because—you can book an appointment with Daniel and Doreen to come up with the perfect design for your special someone. Daniel will work with you to create your own masterpiece right here on our premises, tailored to suit your budget. You can bring your ideas, pictures, or simply seek some creative inspiration—Daniel will work with you to turn your visions into reality.

Daniel works with premium metals and hand-selects the finest diamonds and gemstones. He only affiliates with suppliers who comply with the Kimberley Process and System of Warranties mandated by the World Diamond Council and the United Nations. Under this process, only legally mined and ethically sourced diamonds can be imported into the country. The System of Warranties provides assurances that polished diamonds and jewellery are legitimately traded. Daniel proudly supports Australian manufacturing and Australian gold companies.

Doreen is originally from Fiji and brings over 10 years of experience in the jewellery industry, with extensive knowledge about diamonds and gemstones. She also holds a Master's Degree in Finance and an Advanced Diploma in Accounting. Doreen takes care of the administration and finance side of the business and also helps clients during the initial design process, ensuring every detail is looked after with warmth and professionalism.

Together, Daniel and Doreen are dedicated to creating meaningful jewellery that celebrates life's most important moments—just as their family has done for over a century.

Bespoke Engagement Rings & Custom Jewellery in Port Macquarie

Daniel specialises in:
• Custom Engagement Rings – thoughtfully designed to symbolise your unique love story
• Custom Wedding Bands – crafted to perfectly complement and complete your commitment
• Bespoke Fine Jewellery – one-of-a-kind pieces created to mark life's most meaningful moments
• Jewellery Remodelling – transforming treasured heirlooms into fresh expressions of your family's history
• Natural Diamond Jewellery – featuring ethically sourced, exceptional quality diamonds
• Lab-Grown Diamond Jewellery – stunning, sustainable alternatives without compromising on beauty
• Coloured Gemstone Jewellery – vibrant, personalised pieces featuring carefully selected precious stones
• Handmade Jewellery – crafted entirely by Daniel's skilled hands at the bench
• CAD Jewellery Design – modern visualisation technology to bring your vision to life before it's made
• Onsite Jewellery Manufacturing – every piece created from start to finish right here in our Port Macquarie studio
• Complimentary Jewellery Inspection – professional assessment and care for your treasured pieces, ensuring they remain as beautiful as the day they were made

With a family heritage in the jewellery industry dating back to 1919, Daniel has cultivated longstanding relationships with some of the world's most respected diamond suppliers. This allows us to source the finest natural diamonds, including the rare and highly sought-after Argyle pink diamonds and exquisite chocolate diamonds, as well as a stunning array of coloured gemstones. Whether you desire a classic brilliant white diamond, a rare pink treasure, or a unique gemstone that speaks to your individuality, Daniel will hand-select the perfect stone to bring your vision to life.

Clients are warmly invited to book a private consultation with Daniel and Doreen at our Port Macquarie jewellery studio. In this relaxed, one-on-one environment, you can share your ideas, inspiration images, sketches and design concepts—or simply arrive with an open mind and let Daniel's creative guidance lead the way.

Operating exclusively by private appointment allows us to offer the dedicated, personalised service and individual attention you deserve at every stage of the custom jewellery design journey. There is no rush, no pressure—just thoughtful collaboration between you and the artisan who will bring your vision to life.

From the very first conversation through to the moment Daniel places the finished piece in your hands, every detail is carefully considered and lovingly crafted. The result is not simply a piece of jewellery, but a timeless expression of your heart—created with the same devotion to quality that has defined Daniel's family for over a century.