Precious Pieces

Michael Hofmeyer combines talent with valuable metals and jewels
by Julia Ross/Design Works

An innovative Brisbane jeweller looks to the techniques of the past and the future to produce his collection of contemporary designs.

A goldsmith for 18 years, Michael Hofmeyer will unveil his pieces with an exhibition from tomorrow, 10 September, at Jan Murphy Gallery in Fortitude Valley.

“I combine old traditional techniques with contemporary metalwork techniques,” he says. Michael describes this collection as having a sculptural quality.

Expression and Ornament features more than 30 pieces of jewellery including rings, brooches, cufflinks, earrings, bracelets, pendants and chains made from gold, silver, alloys and precious stones.

A year spent studying and working in Florence, Italy, has left Michael with an appreciation for labour-intensive techniques.

“Very old jewellery is highly detailed,” he says.

And what does he admire about modern techniques?

“They allow for a cleaner, sharper edge,” he says.

A strong emphasis on design is the theme that runs throughout the jewellery he creates at his Paddington studio.

Spectacular brooches are a highlight of the collection.

“Some pieces rely on the inherent beauty of the design in polished or matt gold and silver, while other works are embellished with emeralds, diamonds, amethysts, tourmaline and sapphires,” he says.

Michael estimates the exhibition represents about six months work.

All pieces on display are for sale and prices start from $150.