Pia Sommerlad

Pia Sommerlad finds it challenging to rediscover materials and techniques, such as engraving, which have typically been used in jewelry for millennia. Her pieces seem minimalistic, but they achieve surprising effects that underscore the preciousness of gemstones such as agate, hematite or quartz, as well as other materials such as mother-of-pearl, glass and enamel. The effects are further enhanced by height differences as in a relief or by reflections, mirroring and visual enlargement. In her work with stones, this designer forgoes the fineness of traditional engraving, opting instead for flat, sketch-like motifs. Also she thematizes the contrast between matte and glossy. This designer won the red dot 2012 award for ringring, her newest collection. For her polished gemstones, Pia Sommerlad collaborates with a lapidary near Idar-Oberstein.