Here’s the transcript of a chat with Maurice Lorenz who is the Goldsmith here at Metal & Stone Jewellers. This short Q&A digs deep into Maurice’s background and inspiration.
1. When did you start your journey to become a manufacturing jeweller?
One evening in December 1980 at 16 years of age I was having a serious think about how much I didn’t want to go back to school the following year. This was mainly due to the fact that I wasn’t academically inclined at all. I remember getting down on my knees on the kitchen floor pleading with my dad to take me on as his apprentice! He was reluctant at first, but eventually he came around with some persuasive words from my mum! So I began my apprenticeship in the family business February 1981 in our upstairs jewellery manufacturing workshop on the corner of Peel street and Hindley Street in Adelaide City.
2. Who has been your primary influence/inspiration in your journey?
Definitely my father has been my primary influence and inspiration in my journey. Not just in jewellery but as an incredible mentor and life coach. He is hardworking, honest and was an absolutely amazing craftsman and very highly regarded in the industry. He was one of the original founding members of the Goldsmiths Guild of South Australia.
3. Why did you decide to open Metal & Stone Jewellers?
I get a lot of joy from being approachable, sharing my knowledge and experience with others and satisfaction from providing the kind of service and attention to detail that is becoming rare nowadays. This is what has inspired me to create a shop that is warm and inviting that enables people to get a real taste of what happens in a manufacturing jewellery workshop and deal directly with the jeweller himself!
4. What technical aspect of jewellery manufacture do you enjoy the most?
The technical aspect of my work that I enjoy the most is optical diamond setting! My passion for setting diamonds began in 2001. In 2016 I had the amazing opportunity to further my training in optical diamond setting in Antwerp, Belgium under the tutelage of Master diamond setter Alexander Siderov.
5. What has been the most amazing experience in your journey?
The most amazing experience in my journey would have to be my time living in our underground home in Coober Pedy!
6. What is the most satisfying aspect of your work?
When a customer entrusts me with an item for repair or restoration that is of great sentimental value, and I see the joyful emotional response it brings them when they see the completed piece for the first time, that is definitely the most satisfying aspect of my work!
