My idea…
…of jewelry is at first conceivably simple. It should bring joy, every day. It is a prerequisite that it matches the nature of its owner. They want to be comfortable with it at all hours and they see more in it than just a shiny something. Jewels are keeping memories, they are telling stories and they are being promised to next generations just by today. I don´t want to follow ephemeral fashion trends. That´s why my pieces are very personal and unique, they are rare by nature and rich in details.
The detail…
…is an important part of my work and more than mere decoration. My will to design does not end at the edges of visible parts. Often hidden, it is revealed only to the owners. This requires a lot of time and patience. It is not unusual for me to spend several weeks at one single piece. But isn´t that appropriate for jewels which will accompany us for a lifetime?
The sources…
…of my inspiration sound stereotypical, but they are not deniable. First of all – Mother Nature. It´s my pleasure to study her. It´s easy to be inspired by her. Trying to copy her is in vain. The forms of nature got countless interpretations in all crafts and genres of art history. Architecture, books and museums are full of stimulations. And the works of old masters and cultures always have deep influence on my work. On top, the material itself often shows me the way. Its own will cannot be ignored by any creator.
My craft…
…is based on long tradition. The essential way of working has remained unchanged through millennia. I had the privilege of being extensively trained in it. My ideal of craft is to work universally and independent. The making of a tool or forging. The casting, granulating, enameling or setting of gems – all different parts of the one whole thing – the work of my hands, guided by experience heart and mind. My doing is always driven by the striving for perfection and extending the limits which are just part of pure handwork. To me, the way jewelry is made has the same relevance as material or design. So I deliberately do without the popular use of CAD and 3D printing with all their technical and commercial benefits. Sometimes failing in humility is also part of the toolkit.
My materials…
…are manifold but never random. Ordinary or precious, I assess its value only by appearance, quality, origin and usability. Reservations do not exist. What they have in common is their natural origin and my responsibility.
Without doubt, the extraction and processing of these raw materials leave their marks on people and environment. I have to keep these footprints as small as possible. So my metals are sourced out of recycling. My gemstone suppliers have been family-run companies for generations. They know the mines, the people and the local circumstances. That enables direct and transparent trade lanes.
Coral, ivory or any other parts of endangered wildlife species are categorically excluded. No matter if antique or recently traded.