My passion: Traditional jewelry making
In my workshop, I rely on centuries-old craft techniques that have almost been forgotten today. Each piece of jewelry is lovingly handcrafted in my workshop – sawn, ground, polished, drilled, and set, combining modern efficiency with traditional sustainability.
My pedal-powered lapping machine: The heart of my workshop
What's special about my work method: While I use power tools for sawing and drilling materials, I work completely without electricity when sanding and polishing. My lapping machine is pedal-powered – a technique that offers me several advantages:
- Sustainable production: No electricity consumption during grinding and polishing, minimal ecological footprint
- Precise control: Thanks to manual control, I can perfectly adjust the speed and pressure to each mineral.
- Authentic craftsmanship: Every piece bears my individual signature.
My manufacturing process: From the raw form to the finished piece of jewelry
1. Sawing
First, I saw the raw material with an electric saw. Using fine saw blades, I cut the minerals into the desired basic shape. This step requires experience and a good eye to optimally showcase the natural grain and coloring.
2. Grinding on the lapping machine
Grinding is the most elaborate and, for me, the most enjoyable step. On my pedal-driven lapping machine, I refine the surface of the mineral step by step, completely without electricity. I work with different grit sizes (SiC) to achieve perfect smoothness. The pedal action allows me to intuitively adjust the rotation speed, enabling me to optimally process each material. This work is meditative and connects me directly with the material.
3. Polishing
After grinding, I polish the piece of jewelry by hand, without the use of electricity, until it achieves its characteristic shine. Here, too, I use traditional polishing agents and techniques that accentuate the natural beauty of the mineral without altering it. Only when the surface is perfectly polished do I proceed to the next step.
4. Drilling
Once the mineral is fully ground and polished, I drill precise holes (if necessary) for pendants or eyelets. Using special diamond drill bits, I carefully work my way through the hard, already polished material. The advantage of this process is that I can see exactly where the hole is best placed, and the finished, gleaming mineral provides the best guide for precise positioning. Every hole must be perfectly positioned so that the finished piece of jewelry is balanced and comfortable to wear.
5. Border
The final and crucial step is setting the cut, polished, and drilled minerals. Here, I combine the mineral with precious metals such as silver or other high-quality materials. Setting requires the utmost precision and craftsmanship, as the setting must hold the mineral securely while simultaneously showcasing its beauty to its best advantage.
Why I, as a one-man business, rely on tradition
As a one-man operation, I have complete control over every step of the process – from the first saw cut to the final version. In an age of mass production and automation, my methods may seem old-fashioned. But therein lies their strength:
- Uniqueness: No two pieces are alike. Each piece of jewelry is a unique creation, handcrafted by me.
- Quality: I personally guarantee every single piece and every step of the process.
- Sustainability: Minimal energy consumption during grinding and polishing, conscious use of resources
- Tradition: I preserve old craft knowledge for future generations.
- Personal contact: As a one-man operation, I am directly available for my customers.
The result: Jewelry with soul
When you wear a piece of jewelry from my workshop, you wear a piece of living craftsmanship. Every pendant, every necklace tells the story of its creation. From the raw beauty of the mineral, through the meditative grinding and polishing, the precise drilling, to the setting. Passion!
The combination of efficient electric sawing and drilling with traditional, non-electric grinding and polishing, followed by handcrafted edging, allows me to create high-quality, unique pieces that are both technically and ecologically convincing.
Visit my shop and discover the variety of my handcrafted mineral jewelry collections. Each piece is a testament to traditional craftsmanship and sustainable production, from sawing to setting.
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