Ann Middleton has commanded both the local and international spotlight as an achiever of the highest order. Ann was Australian table tennis champion in her teenage years, and represented her country abroad as national captain for several years, culminating in her much-publicised maiden visit to China. Her pioneering deeds earned global praise – ‘ping pong diplomacy’ had succeeded in establishing trade, cultural and sporting links between Australia and China. The same spirit of innovation, enthusiasm, and attention to detail which had taken her to the top in sport soon emerged in business. The calibre of Ann’s work attracts worldwide acclaim. Ann has designed and created jewellery for Royalty and Heads of State throughout Asia, Cuff links for former US President Bill Clinton and a special piece for Ian Thorpe, Australian Olympic Gold Medalist to name a few. Today, Ann enjoys a peerless reputation for originality and stunning beauty in designs that embrace gemstones, diamonds and pearls. Having received every award in the world of jewellery, including the prestigious Diamonds International Award – Ann was honoured recently with the Order of Australia medal for services to the jewellery industry.