MEET THE TEAM
May 06, 2025
PDS Curator - Nadia Simak
Life has a beautiful way of circling back to what truly inspires us. After two decades of working for corporates, I finally made the decision to switch careers and dedicate myself fully to the beauty of antiques and jewellery—a passion rooted deep in childhood. It felt like coming home to something I had always known but had only now given myself permission to pursue.
Balancing personal aspirations, growth, motherhood, and creative work isn’t always easy, but it gives everything I do a deeper meaning. My children remind me daily to stay curious, to notice the sparkle in the ordinary, and to dream without limits. Now, as they grow older and more independent, I remind myself to spend more time indulging in the study of art history, ancient books, and world-wide travel.
With PrettyDifferentShop growing and maturing, I decided to deepen my gemstone knowledge. I’m currently studying for my third master’s degree—this time it's Diamond and Coloured Stones Grading at GIA.
For me, it’s a journey of both science and magic, where I can combine my jewellery historian expertise with the captivating stories of natural stones, revealed in every facet reflecting the sunshine.
Meet our charming Photographer – Noel Ikjouen!
Driven by a deep passion for visual storytelling, Noel began her journey at the Fotovakschool, where she honed her craft with dedication and precision. Over the years, she has built a strong portfolio ranging from intimate portrait sessions to elegant wedding photography, always capturing the essence of each moment with an artistic eye.
In recent years, Noel has turned her lens toward the sparkling world of jewellery. Her refined attention to detail ensures that every image highlights the elegance, craftsmanship, and power behind each piece.
Skillfully playing with light and shadow, Noel brings the fine texture of antiques back to life—allowing their beauty to speak for itself.
Our very talented Goldsmith – Paulien Schipper!
After her training in Schoonhoven as a goldsmith and as a certified gemologist at the Dutch Gemmological Institute, Paulien has learned the secrets of goldsmithing from master Ralph Bakker himself!
Because of her deep interest in historical jewellery and legacy techniques, she loves to restore old pieces to their former glory. She is responsible for conservation and alteration of your jewellery and is making sure that your treasures are well-maintained, perfectly sized, and ready for their second life in your capable hands!
Paulien Schipper is a member of the Dutch Guild of Goldsmiths.
Paulien also teaches goldsmithing at the CKC Zoetermeer school! So, in case your passion goes beyond wearing and collecting jewellery – get yourself a course to start making your own masterpieces!
And our dear Gemmologist - William Woud!
All your jewelry comes with registred and trackable certificates prepared by William Woud from LGemL Lab!
LGemL is a certified Dutch gemmological laboratory that specializes in the identification of gemstones for professional trade. LGemL researchers are trained (FGA, DG-HRD) gemologists and diamond graders.
William has been working with us for almost five years, and he is our immensely valued and respected partner! William is an avid traveller and loves to hunt for rare gemstones at their very source. In 2025, we visited rural sapphire mines in Thailand together as a team!