Reeve, Alice Elsie, 1885-1927

One of the first women professional jewellers in New Zealand, and founder of the studio jewellery movement. Daughter of Alfred and Cornelia Reeve (née Petty). After schooling in Auckland she studied design in London, before returning and settling in Wellington where she made enamelled jewellery. Again went to England in 1914; in 1922 returned to Auckland where she advertised in the Ladies Mirror and operated a successful business. Promoted the development of craft in Auckland. In 1923 was made convenor of a special meeting of the Auckland Lyceum Club's Arts and Crafts Circle. Exhibited her work as a member of the Auckland Society of Arts from 1922 until her death in Wellington. (The Book of New Zealand women / edited by Charlotte Macdonald et al). See also DNZB (Vol 3, 1901-1920, p422-423, R10)