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Part of The Power of Renewal Series
Career change can be exhilarating—a chance to rediscover passion, challenge the status quo, and create something truly transformative. It’s a bold move that requires courage, adaptability, and a willingness to step into the unknown. For Talitha Cummins, that leap wasn’t just about personal growth; it was about reshaping an industry.
After two decades in journalism, Talitha made a daring pivot into the fine jewellery world, launching The Cut Jewellery, a brand dedicated to lab-grown diamonds. Her mission? To make luxury more accessible, sustainable, and ethical. In embracing this shift, she not only redefined her own path but also became part of a growing movement disrupting the traditional diamond trade.
We sat down with Talitha to explore what it takes to dive headfirst into a new industry, challenge long-held perceptions, and build a business with purpose.
From a 20-year career in journalism to launching a lab-grown diamond business, what motivated this bold career shift?
I enjoyed my TV career, but after 17 years, I felt burnt out, unmotivated, and knew it was time for a change. My kids had finally hit an age where they were more self-sufficient, so I felt ready to find a new passion.
Funnily enough, my career started in diamonds. While studying journalism at university, I worked for a jeweller on the Gold Coast, where I was introduced to diamonds, design, and quality. It’s also in my blood—my uncle, Craig Blizzard, has been a jeweller for nearly 55 years! He had tried for many years to get me into the family business, and one day, I relented.
I travelled to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in London, where I began my studies in diamonds. That’s where I learned more about lab-grown diamonds, and I was fascinated. They are as hard as a diamond that comes from the ground and optically identical. Genetically and chemically, they are the same, but because they are made in a lab, they can be produced with fewer imperfections. They are also more affordable to manufacture, meaning my clients can have the ring they’ve always desired without compromising on size or quality.
Lab-grown diamonds are redefining the luxury market—how do you educate and engage consumers on the benefits of ethical jewellery?
Different generations have different perspectives on diamonds and value. There was once a stigma around lab-grown versus mined diamonds, but I believe that stigma is fading—and it all comes down to marketing. Jewellery companies are the ones who created the idea that “three months' salary should be spent on an engagement ring” and “if you have a lab-grown diamond, it won’t hold its value.” These outdated notions no longer resonate, especially with Gen Z.
The reality is, spending three months' salary in today’s market isn’t a wise financial decision for many people. You shouldn’t feel pressured to put yourself in a difficult financial position just to get engaged.
A ring should be sentimental, and you should choose something you love—so why not get the ring you want at a better price?
Your personal journey with sobriety has resonated with many—has this experience influenced how you approach business and leadership?
Great question! My journey with sobriety has given me a deep sense of strength and resilience, which has been invaluable in business. Entrepreneurship constantly tests your emotional and mental limits. The things that trigger you often point to areas where personal growth is needed.
I will always strive to grow and be the best person I can be, so it’s an ongoing process. How we act now is heavily influenced by our past, and once you process and understand those experiences, there’s a lot of insight and freedom to be gained.
For more information about Talitha's journey and to discover her stunning diamond collections, visit thecutjewellery.com.au or follow @thecutjewellery on Instagram.
Stay tuned for more incredible stories as part of The Power of Renewal series, where we spotlight female founders redefining success and transforming industries.
By Alex Dymalovski
As the holiday lights twinkle, Casper Magazine invites you to sparkle with a twist. Your impeccable taste and loyalty have been the pièce de résistance in our journey of showcasing the crème de la crème of conscious living and avant-garde design.
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The Casper Magazine Team ❤️
