As a gemologist and product specialist at 100 Ways, Heather helps guide each piece, whether pre-loved or vintage into its next chapter.
“I live a bit outside the city in Port Coquitlam and have lived in BC for nearly 20 years,” Bennett says. Heather studied downtown at Vancouver Community College in the Jewellery Art and Design program before completing a diploma in Gemmology with the Canadian Gemmological Association. When she’s not immersed in gemstones, Bennett gravitates toward other creative pursuits. “When I’m not working, I’m usually making jewellery, working on taxidermy projects, or finding new trails and places to explore,” she says. “I’m always happy to be outside and doing something hands-on!”
Based in Vancouver and located on Granville Street, 100 Ways specializes in pre-loved, vintage, and estate fine jewellery. Every piece is sourced directly from the public, then assessed, graded, and thoughtfully prepared for its next chapter. The company operates within a circular model where enduring pieces are curated and rehomed, while pieces beyond repair are melted and transformed into new creations using recycled gold and reclaimed natural gemstones. Clients can sell any gold jewellery knowing it will either find a new owner or be respectfully reborn.
To Heather, the best part of working at 100 Ways has been “the opportunity to see an incredible range of vintage and antique jewellery that you truly wouldn’t find anywhere else,” she says. “I’ve been able to work with so many gemstones and jewellery styles that I had previously only read about in textbooks or seen in photos online.”
Community is another aspect of the job she values deeply. “I’m really looking forward to seeing 100 Ways become even more involved in the downtown community,” Bennett says. “We’re excited about participating in more local events, welcoming more people into our showroom, and continuing to build relationships with neighbouring businesses.”
The company also hopes to soon support emerging talent by sponsoring students with reclaimed gemstones from its refinery processes, allowing them to practise stone setting without the prohibitive cost of new materials. “Being able to give back to the program that shaped my own career feels especially meaningful,” Bennett shares.
Inside the downtown Vancouver showroom, clients are invited to find one-of-a-kind pieces or sell jewellery they no longer reach for. 100 Ways also offers virtual appointments for those across Canada and beyond. New pieces are released every Monday and Friday, so there is always something new to discover.
You can visit 100 Ways in person at 736 Granville St Suite 728, or online. You can also join their newsletter to be the first to know about upcoming drops and events.
