Willow Buckley (née Harper)
2008 QACI Foundation Alumni
Jeweller & Diamond Specialist
“QACI was the first place where I truly felt I belonged. Being surrounded by like-minded people gave me a sense of acceptance and allowed me to be myself in a way I hadn’t experienced before. The IB program challenged me academically and taught me how to think critically, which made the transition to university much easier. I also really valued the school’s focus on community engagement and international perspectives, which broadened my view of the world and opened my eyes to opportunities and possibilities I may never have otherwise considered.”
– Buckley 2026
Willow Buckley (née Harper) was part of the very first graduating class of QACI - a cohort defined by curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to explore diverse pathways. Her journey since graduating reflects those same qualities, taking her from law into the world of fine jewellery, where she now thrives as a skilled jeweller and diamond specialist.
After graduating from QACI, Willow pursued a Bachelor of Laws at Queensland University of Technology (QUT). While studying, she actively sought opportunities to build practical experience, volunteering with organisations such as Caxton Legal Centre and Advocacy Incorporated. These roles allowed her to engage directly with clients and develop a deeper understanding of the legal profession.
Willow graduated university and was admitted to the legal profession in 2013. Her determination led her to a role in property and commercial law, beginning as a paralegal and progressing to a solicitor. During this transitional period, she also worked at Diamonds International while seeking a permanent legal position, an experience that would later come full circle.
While establishing her legal career, Willow faced a significant personal challenge when she was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. This ultimately led her to step away from legal practice and reassess her path.
After focusing on her health, she returned to a long-standing passion “diamonds and jewellery”. What began earlier as a supportive job became a new and fulfilling career direction.
Now with eight years at her current jeweller, Willow has built a career that combines artistry, technical expertise, and meaningful client relationships. She specialises in diamonds and custom-made jewellery, working closely with clients to design engagement rings, wedding bands, and bespoke pieces that mark life’s most important milestones.
Her role involves guiding clients through the creative process; from initial ideas to final design, while drawing on her detailed knowledge of diamonds and jewellery manufacturing. She is particularly passionate about helping clients bring their visions to life, blending creativity and precision to create pieces that are both personal and timeless.
Working within a family-owned jewellery business that manages the entire manufacturing process in-house, Willow is involved in every stage - from concept design through to the finished product. She also contributes to staff training, sharing her expertise in diamonds, custom design, and the broader jewellery industry. Recently, her work has even taken her to the United States, highlighting the dynamic and global nature of her field.
“My favourite part of the job is simple - I get to play with diamonds all day. Who doesn’t love that?” – Buckley, 2026.
Outside of her professional life, Willow enjoys a wide range of interests, including Formula 1, LEGO, and coffee. She values spending time with friends and family, and enjoys life at home with her husband and their four cats.
Willow’s story demonstrates that career paths are rarely linear and that success can come from embracing change, listening to your passions, and being open to new opportunities, a philosophy embedded into the culture at QACI. From law to jewellery, her journey highlights the versatility of a QACI education and the lasting impact of creativity, resilience, and a willingness to evolve.