When you look at William Schraft’s elegant jewelry, it’s difficult to believe he first began sketching automobiles from “the moment he could hold a pencil.” They must have been some great looking cars. Seeking more inspiration, and having a father in the jewelry industry, William Schraft found that jewelry design satisfied all of his creative desires and individuality.

He studied with German manufacturers in Pforzheim, Germany and also attended the Parsons School of Design in New York. His designs are recognized internationally for their high style, elegance and innovation. Currently, his focus has been a retro style with a combination of bold and contemporary designs that create a delicate, vintage-inspired, yet fresh look.

Considered one of the best designers in the jewelry industry, Schraft has won many prestigious international awards, including multiple American Gem Trade Association Spectrum Awards, Diamonds of Distinction competitions, Diamonds for Men competitions, and Diamond Today awards. Schraft prides himself on creating a look that blends new and old, with intricate pieces that feature many striking antique-inspired designs. He often combines precious metals, using sterling silver and 18k gold, often enhanced by colored stones and diamonds.

“The challenge was do to something exciting with the metals, without sacrificing the originality or fine quality of work for which we are known. I accomplish this with the beautiful inlaid Victorian filigree sections which are windows of the collection.” Inspired by the exquisitely detailed woodwork of old homes and the scrolls and fretwork on Victorian furniture, along with European ironwork on gates and windows, it is easy to discover the same intricate designs in his jewelry pieces.

A prominent representative of his craft, William Schraft is also a member of the American Jewelry Design Council, International Jewelry Design Guild and the American Gem Society. His ornate designs are just the beginning; Schraft plans to design even bigger pieces and incorporate the use of more platinum and diamonds.

Honestly, could you ask for more?

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This entry was posted on Wednesday, July 29th, 2009 at 6:53 pm and is filed under Cool Jewels & Hot Threads, Jewelry Designers. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.