The Art of Manufacture
A century-old tradition is being practiced daily in Buderim. Carlie Wacker meets the Master Jeweller who aims to keep the tradition alive and thriving on the Sunshine Coast.
Adrian Schulz was born to be a jeweller and a very good one indeed – a Master Jeweller.
He was born in Idar-Oberstein, the mining, jewellery and gemstone cutting capital of West Germany. Both his father and grandfather are qualified Master Goldsmiths with the family business beginning in 1933.
When Adrian was young the family moved to Australia to explore an exciting new world of gemstones and settled in a remote north-western NSW mining town, Lightning Ridge – the home of the world famous and most precious of all opals, the Black Opal.
“After completing high school and deferring university, I began an apprenticeship with my father,” says Adrian. “Since I was little I’ve always looked over his shoulder and been fascinated by the craft.”
Staying at the coal face of the industry, Adrian also mined part-time while completing his apprenticeship and worked under his father for 10 years.
Over the next 15 years he worked his skillful trade under several jewellers, and in 2016 was awarded the title of a Jewellers Association of Aus. Accredited Master Jeweller, one of only four in Australia at the time.
This was the first time Australia had an official ‘Master Jeweller’ accreditation, and Adrian found a new home for his creativity and passion taking over the much-loved Buderim jewellery studio – Diamonds of Distinction. The store is now a luxury destination for high-quality, custom-made jewellery.
The store has a real sense of luxury, timeless tradition and unmistakable style. The work of the third generation master jeweller speaks for itself and the love of this centuries old craft is evident.
“I specialise in unique, custom made, one-off pieces of jewellery, using premium materials and unusual and exciting gemstones from all over the world. My favourite design style is contemporary avant-garde.”
When designing a special piece for a client, Adrian said the actual design process starts with an idea.
“This can come from something a client has said, from a gemstone, or from a theme. We then begin imagining and sketching and eventually a concept is realised.”
Diamonds of Distinction are dedicated to providing conflict-free certified diamonds and precious gemstones from all over the world. Their supplier network has been established over generations in the industry.
“We only use trusted and established names. Our diamond suppliers are signatories to the Kimberley Process and we source as many Australian diamonds and gemstones as possible, which are of course ethically mined. Apart from the amazing pink and coloured diamonds we are known for; we also have a large selection of white Argyle diamonds available. These are increasingly popular with our clients.”
With all this skill and style it’s no surprise that the business is expanding.
“We are very much in a growth phase! I am a single, full-time Dad, bringing my original plans for the business to life, including opening a second premise – stay tuned for our exciting Noosa store announcement,” he shares. “Over the last year we have been extremely busy, with many people insisting on locally made and locally sourced and we have actually increased our workforce. We are a growing our team of three design consultants and a second jeweller, with a third jeweller and more salespeople starting in the new year.
“We have big plans to engage and train apprentices and keep the Australian manufacturing industry strong. We have some amazing jewellers in Australia and it would be tragic to lose them, so we will do what we can to keep our trade numbers up.”
From Idar-Oberstein to Lightning Ridge, Buderim to Noosa – there is no stopping Adrian Schulz.
Whether you are looking for a brand-new custom piece, a repair, a restoration, or the remodelling/restoration of your beloved jewellery, Diamonds of Distinction pride themselves on quality craftsmanship and exceptional service.
