My work and the story behind it
I’ve been an independent jewellery designer since 1993.
In my workshop in Krailling, near Munich, I design and make jewellery in silver and gold.
My scuba collection brings together my love of diving and the pleasure I take in making jewellery.
The result is handmade diving jewellery inspired by the creatures and shapes of the underwater world.
How diving inspired my scuba collection
As a child, I was happiest in the water with my mask, fins and snorkel. I took my first diving course in 1989, and I’m still fascinated by how much there is to discover beneath the surface. Often, it’s the small creatures and easily overlooked details that catch my eye.
On a diving holiday in the Maldives in 1995, I had the idea of turning some of the animals I saw into jewellery. The first designs featured dolphins, whales and tropical fish. The collection began as “Kleine Fische” (“Little Fish”) and gradually developed into the scuba collection.
The whale tail was one of the most popular designs from the very beginning. It has been part of my work ever since and has become a recognisable symbol of the collection.
From nature to jewellery
I enjoy taking my camera with me when I dive. It lets me capture the animals’ shapes and movements so I can study them more closely later. Sometimes, an encounter underwater sparks an idea for a new piece of jewellery.
Each new design begins with careful observation. I want to bring out the features that make an animal recognisable, even on a small scale. I often work on a model for several days, refining its shape until the proportions and details are right and I’m happy with the result.
I make the original models by hand in wax. Once a master model has been cast, a rubber mould is made and injected with wax. The resulting wax models are then cast in precious metal. I work on each rough casting individually, cleaning it up and refining the details before polishing it or giving it a matt finish, depending on the design. It takes time, concentration and a delicate touch.
For me, a piece of jewellery should be comfortable to wear, as true to life as possible and carefully made to give you years of enjoyment.
Read more about the individual stages on my workshop page (in German).
A personal connection to the sea
Jewellery can bring back memories of a special dive, an encounter with an animal or a place you remember fondly. I particularly like the thought that something I’ve made can become part of someone else’s story.
Some of my customers have been with me since the collection’s earliest days. I’m very grateful for their continued support and the trust they place in my work.
My involvement in conservation
I’ve volunteered with YAQU PACHA since 1995. The organisation works to protect dolphins and other aquatic mammals and their habitats in Latin America.
Through this work, I’m reminded time and again how important it is to stay involved for the long term and work together to find solutions. I want to play my own small part by supporting the people who work on the ground with patience and persistence to protect these animals.
Over the years, my jewellery making, diving and work with
YAQU PACHA have become closely connected. They all reflect my fascination with nature and my wish to help protect it.
You’ll find my scuba collection in the shop. If you have a question about a piece of jewellery or a special request, please get in touch.
With best wishes, Stefan Wiessmeyer