Talent Show: Atelier Zobel

Published

10 years ago

July 7, 2014

Talent Show: Atelier Zobel

BY TRACE SHELTON

Published in the July/August 2014 issue

KONSTANZ, GERMANY | P: +49 7531 25962 | W: ATELIEZOBEL.com

After training as a goldsmith and jewelry designer at a vocational school in Germany, Peter Schmid moved to Konstanz in 1995 to apprentice under Michael Zobel. He worked with Zobel for 10 years before taking over leadership of the atelier in 2005. Since then, the studio has continued to rack up awards and accolades for its unique designs. “I work with materials that emerge from nature,” says Schmid. “A flawless diamond is clearly beautiful — but the same beauty can be found in every stone, regardless of its value, once its character is revealed. I look for stones that demonstrate strength and individuality, that dramatize the influence of their history and environment.”

This year, Schmid says the company will continue to explore the relationship between form, the gems and the body. “We work for extraordinary people. We want you to be your best self — we’re working on helping you make a bold statement in 2014.”

In each issue, INDESIGN will feature one of five Talent Show winners for 2014. These designers were nominated and then voted on by a panel of retail store owners known for their expertise and proven track record of carrying avant-garde designers.

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What the Judges Say:

SHUM“His mixtures of metals, textures and stones make Peter Schmid’s pieces feel like you are wearing something immensely special. At first glance, the collection appears avant-garde and glamorous, but once worn, it becomes easy and accessible. ‘How do they do that?’ is a comment we hear often when showing Atelier Zobel. Good question!”

Nicole Gorman Shum, I. Gorman Jewelers, Washington, DC

JIROUTOVA“Edgy organic and passionate, with a back to the future, primal sci-fi feeling all their own. Atelier Zobel has been an innovation leader for years. Not for the shy or conventional client.”

Zdena Jiroutova, Z Folio Gallery, Solvang and Monterey, CA

MORROW“Present-ing one of Peter Schmid’s pieces lifts a jewelry store to a museum level where quality is fused into a piece. His talent knows no bounds and his choice of stones is superb. Peter challenges us in rising to another level, where what is most important is the workmanship, design and value.”

Marie-Helene Morrow, Reinhold Jewelers, San Juan, Ponce and Carolina, Puerto Rico

HILKENE“In this world of cookie cutter, mass-produced jewelry, I look for pieces of wearable art: Unique, sculptural pieces that evoke a bench jeweler pounding away at a table cluttered with stones and tools. Atelier Zobel succeeds in this mission. I hesitate to offer any suggestions to artists, but customers might like some daintier options. Maybe a bangle to stack with their cuff, or smaller earrings for the workplace?”

Sally Hilkene, Churchill, Fairway, KS

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”