Commentary: The Business

Zoltan David: The Difference Between Jewelry Designers and Jewelry Artists

One is a must-have. The other is the life of the party.

Published

14 years ago

November 26, 2010

INSTORE Staff

Zoltan David is a jewelry artist/designer who owns Zoltan David gallery — the 2009 America’s Coolest Store in the Small Cool division — in Austin, TX.

WHAT’S YOUR MOTIVATION in offering original works of fine jewelry?

A designer friend of mine once asked, “Are you a designer or an artist?” Interesting question. Design requires a strategy within certain parameters, such as cost and production, function and feasibility. Successful designs also possess beauty and are inspirational to the point where they become “must-haves” for the consumer.

This inspiration factor brings me to the second part of the question. Jewelry artists are bold individuals, in that they will do what their passion dictates. They seem to take that leap of faith on a daily basis. Regardless of the outcome or the cost, they will pursue their vision. Herein lies the seed that flourishes into works of jewelry art that are precious far beyond their materials. Their greatest value comes from the inspiration they create within the viewer of the work. This awe and wonderment is a powerful motivation to take action.

Pablo Picasso once said, “The magic of art is that it will change the consciousness within a room.” And so, the passion and the imagination of the artist will demand that this work come forward — this vision that has never been seen, this beautifully original work that may fail in its ability to affect. It takes courage to be an artist. They must walk the path less travelled. They deal in the original.

We are all wired for the desire of something new and innovative; it is human nature. It is the imagination, the courage, the passion and vision of the artist that provide the inspiration to motivate others, and this motivation plays a huge part in moving the jewelry industry forward.

The jewelry designer is a must-have. The jewelry artist is the life of the party.

Ready to Relocate? Wilkerson Makes Your Move Seamless

When Brockhaus Jewelry decided to leave their longtime West Main Street storefront for a standalone building elsewhere in Norman, Oklahoma, owners John Brockhaus and Brad Shipman faced a familiar challenge: how to efficiently reduce inventory before the big move. Their solution? Partnering with liquidation specialists Wilkerson for a second time. "We'd already experienced Wilkerson's professionalism during a previous sale," Shipman recalls. "But their approach to our relocation event truly impressed us. They strategically prioritized our existing pieces while tactfully introducing complementary merchandise as inventory levels decreased." The carefully orchestrated sale didn't just meet targets—it shattered them. Asked if they'd endorse Wilkerson to industry colleagues planning similar transitions—whether relocating, retiring, or refreshing their space—both partners were emphatic in their approval. "The entire process was remarkably straightforward," Shipman notes. "Wilkerson delivered a well-structured program, paired us with a knowledgeable advisor, and managed every detail flawlessly from concept to completion."