My Bench: Thomas Meihofer

THOMAS MEIHOFER

Works at: Thomas Meihofer Jewellery Design, Perth

Age: 58

Years in trade: 31 years

Training: Apprenticeship in Switzerland

First job: Carlo Pagani Goldsmith

Other qualifications: Gemmologist

Favourite gemstone:

I adore most of them!

Favourite metal:

Gold – I’m a goldsmith, after all. It can’t be substituted and it appeals to people’s ancient desire to adorn themselves.

Favourite tool:

My trusty 18-year-old KAVO K11 Micro Motor Handpiece. It gets used on almost every job, one way or another, and it is combined with a dust extractor system.

Best part of job:

Coming up with a design concept for an interesting and beautiful gemstone and seeing it become a piece of jewellery. It’s a great platform for the creative mind.

Worst part of job:

Having to scrap the above mentioned piece after years of it being admired but not sold!

Best tip from a jeweller:

Try to use all of your talents.

Best tip to a jeweller:

Know what your talents are.

Biggest health concern on the bench:

A sore back and shoulders. Get up from your bench and stretch regularly.

What frustrates you most about the industry:

Don’t get me started!