Status: 13.01.2024, 18:00 PM
By: Jonas Napiletzki
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Precise work: Hannes Gamper also convinced the jury with the bracelet made of gold. © Tyrolean goldsmith
Hannes Gamper wins the German Design Award with a bracelet. Inspired by the Inca treasures, he wants to make personalities shine.
Rottach-Egern – The jewellery designer and goldsmith Hannes Gamper from South Tyrol, who has been represented in Rottach-Egern with one of his six branches since 2021, receives the "German Design Award" for a bracelet made of gold. Ahead of the award, which the 47-year-old will receive at the Ambiente trade fair in Frankfurt at the end of January, Gamper talks to our newspaper about good design, individual tastes and the challenge of combining the two.
Mr. Gamper, not every piece of jewellery suits everyone. How do you know what your customers like?
Hannes Gamper: Design means sensing what will be demanded in the future. Everything around you is very gloomy right now. So it's good when a person can shine from within. The fine gold on the surface of the bracelet has this effect: it makes the personality shine. The design is inspired by the treasures of the Incas, who are said to have made a raft out of braided gold. Of course, not every piece of jewelry fits every woman equally well. But ideally, we designers also shape taste by doing what customers want in their particular situation.
Apparently, you did a lot of things right with the bangle.
Gamper: I had almost forgotten that I had participated. When the positive news came, I was very surprised that it worked out right away. The German Design Award is one of the most prestigious awards for the industry. I follow the competition very closely every year, because the verdict of the expert jury is groundbreaking for the future and helps with orientation in design.
"It's not enough to just reach into your bag of tricks"
How did you prepare for the competition?
Gamper: I specifically applied for it after I hadn't participated for a few years. Most recently, I was busy with the reopening at Tegernsee. I had to fully commit to that. It's the same with a design competition. You can join in on the side, but then probably without success.
What exactly does it take to participate?
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Gamper: Time and experience. You have to approach the proportions slowly until everything fits. And you have to dare to discover something new again and again. Simply reaching into your bag of tricks is not enough. A piece of jewellery has to offer added value for the wearer – that's important to me, and that's what I really enjoy when designing.
"Superficiality is one of the biggest mistakes in selection"
In the end, does this also apply to buyers who are looking for a suitable piece of jewellery?
Gamper: Yes. Jewelry is a very individual form of expressing one's personality. Some are looking for small but fine pieces. Others seek attention. Those who rule the room will not wear a small chain. A goldsmith and anyone who wants to give jewelry as a gift should therefore deal with the person for whom the jewelry is intended. Superficiality is probably one of the biggest mistakes you can make when choosing.
What role does price play in the selection?
Gamper: When it comes to jewellery, the sky is the limit. There are also gemstones that are real rarities. The braided bangle from the Inca collection is made of 18-carat gold and costs from 13,150 euros, depending on the size. But it is important that the 16-year-old who is in love for the first time and wants to give something to his girlfriend also finds something. We have something for every budget. Even a great leather bracelet can look really good on a sporty person. Jewellery is about individual, quiet luxury. Nap
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