A TAFE NSW graduate has established a thriving jewellery-making business in the heart of the Riverina.

Troy Watkins and his business partner Paul Lucas, are the owners of Kristopher Graydon Jewellers, in Wagga Wagga. The business employs six people and specializes in bespoke jewellery made with gemstones that are difficult to source.

Troy believes one of the particularly special things about creating jewellery is that the pieces can have quite a strong, personal meaning to the customers.

"It's a great feeling to see how happy a customer is when we hand over a beautiful piece of jewellery, how emotional they become," Troy said to Wagga's Daily Advertiser.

Troy has noticed the popularity of handmade jewellery rising steadily over the last decade or so, as people seek out pieces that are more unusual or customized. People are often surprised that these bespoke pieces are more affordable than they expected them to be.

"It's not as expensive as they think," Troy said. "It's unique and a superior quality. You have so many more options when making your own jewellery."