Werner Pejrimovsky

Goldsmith

©Christian Steinbrenner

©Werner Pejrimovsky

©Christian Steinbrenner

From stone to masterpiece

Werner is a pioneer in the processing of platinum
He thrives on transforming raw metal and gemstones
His creative process always begins with a single gemstone and a drawn sketch

Werner Pejrimovsky followed a traditional path in jewellery making, starting his apprenticeship and vocational school at the age of 18. After passing his journeyman exam, he spent two years working in New York. He earned his master’s certification a year after returning from the USA. Initially torn between photography and becoming a goldsmith, Werner’s childhood passion for crafting models led him to pursue goldsmithing. His approach to designing and making jewellery pieces today reflects this talent for piecing together a structure from distinctive parts, as his creations showcase compositions with gemstones and different metals. A memorable moment in Werner's career came in 2019 when he was named Goldsmith of the Year, an achievement that marked a proud milestone as he was recognised on stage for his contributions to the craft.

Interview

©Christian Steinbrenner

What is your ultimate material of choice?: My favourite material to work with is platinum, and more specifically 20% iridium platinum, which I consider to be the finest and most beautiful metal to craft with. It is used in about 80% of my creations.
What do you love about your craft?: What I love most is going to the vault, where I have an incredible selection of gemstones, picking one, and bringing a design idea to life on paper. Every item I create starts with a hand-drawn design showing three sides. From there, I begin with raw metal working: melting, rolling, bending, and processing until the piece is complete. It is truly remarkable to take something as simple as raw metal and transform it into a beautiful, finished creation.
Do you use a unique marketing approach?: Living somewhat remotely and autonomously, my wife and I also operate a small guesthouse and a Slow Food business. Through this, we attract visitors who seek out Slow Food establishments and they often visit my workshop. Many have become customers as a result.
How do you envision the future of your craft evolving?: Traditional methods with minimal 3D printing are becoming increasingly rare. For example, an enamelled butterfly takes about 150 hours to create and costs around 28,000€, which not everyone can afford. However, I have noticed that younger customers appreciate our work, and specifically choose handmade pieces, as they believe 3D-printed items look lifeless.

Werner Pejrimovsky is a master artisan: he began his career in 1988 and he started teaching in 1995