Get to Know Master Goldsmith Gurhan Orhan

For exquisite, handcrafted, and artistic jewelry, GURHAM is the brand to know.

New York-based Gurhan Orhan, Designer and Founder of his eponymous brand, has built a reputation for offering timeless, beautifully hand-crafted jewelry designs since he founded his label in the ‘90s. And, of course, as a master goldsmith, he’s famous for working with 24K gold, as well as platinum and silver.

He combines age-old techniques with his unique method of design to create jewelry items that merge the classic with the contemporary—and they’re pieces that’ll be worn and adored forever. This method has seen him win awards and accolades over the years, from a long list of A-list celebrity wearers to being commissioned by the Metropolitan Museum of

Art to create a collection. Gurhan tells us more about his namesake brand.

How would you sum up the aesthetic of GURHAN?

At GURHAN, our aesthetic can be described as a harmonious fusion of ancient techniques and contemporary design. We draw inspiration from historical civilizations and infuse them with a modern touch, which results in unique and timeless pieces. Our jewelry showcases intricate craftsmanship, rich textures, and bold yet elegant designs.

Who is your customer?

Our customer base is diverse and encompasses individuals with a refined taste for fine jewelry. They appreciate the artistry, quality, and individuality that our pieces offer. Our clientele includes discerning collectors, sophisticated individuals who appreciate luxurious accessories, and those seeking to celebrate special moments with exceptional jewelry.

What are the cornerstones of your company?

The cornerstones of GURHAN are craftsmanship, innovation, and authenticity. We pride ourselves on employing master artisans who meticulously handcraft each piece with meticulous attention to detail. Our commitment to innovation ensures that we constantly push boundaries and explore new techniques and materials. Moreover, we remain authentic to our heritage and values, staying true to our artistic vision and the timeless elegance that defines our brand.

Which was the first-ever piece that you de- signed, and how did it come about?

Early in my journey, I was fortunate to come across these two gemstones. Imagine this—a beautiful emerald that seemed to contain a forest within it and an intaglio so captivating that it felt like stepping into a story. Naturally, I was inspired to design these one-of-a-kind rings around each stone, and I poured my heart and soul into handcrafting them myself.

The ring with the intaglio?Well, it was quite the charmer. It caught the eye of a local jewelry store, and in no time at all, a customer was taken entirely by its unique allure. The folks at the store were pretty impressed with my work, too—they even asked if they could be the exclusive sellers of all my future pieces.

Now, that emerald ring—I kept it. It’s become a bit of a keepsake for me, a tangible reminder of my journey. You see, at first, all I wanted was to make a name for myself as a “ring maker.” But as time went on, my passion for design sort of blossomed. I started realizing that my creativity didn’t have to stop at rings. So, I began experimenting with other pieces like necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. And let me tell you, it’s been quite the adventure exploring these new forms of jewelry

Tell us about the materiality and process. At GURHAN, we place great emphasis on using the highest quality materials to create our jewelry. We primarily work with precious metals such as 24-karat gold and rare precious stones. Our materials are carefully sourced to ensure ethical and sustainable practices.

Our process is a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted by our skilled artisans, utilizing techniques passed down through generations. From the initial design concept to the final polishing, our artisans bring their expertise and passion to every step of the creation process.

How is the brand pivoting to handle the different customer buying methods?

As the market evolves, we continuously adapt to meet our customers’ changing needs and preferences. We understand the importance of embracing digital platforms and have invested in creating a seamless online shopping experience. Our website showcases our collections, allowing customers to explore and purchase our pieces from the comfort of their homes. Additionally, we engage with our customers through social media channels, virtual consul- tations, and online events, offering personalized assistance and a sense of connection.

Celebrities have worn your pieces; the Metropolitan Museum of Art has commissioned you to create a line, and you have gained numerous awards over the years.

What have been your career highlights to date?

Throughout my career, there have been several remarkable highlights that have brought me immense joy and pride. Seeing our jewelry worn by influential celebrities is always a gratifying experience, as it reinforces the appreciation for our craft and the recognition of our designs. Being commissioned by the prestigious Metropolitan Museum of Art to create a line was a tremendous honor and a testament to the artistic value we bring to the world of jewelry.

Moreover, the recognition we have received through various industry awards has been incredibly rewarding. These accolades validate our dedication to craftsmanship, design excellence, and innovation. Each milestone serves as a reminder of our team’s passion and commitment to creating exceptional jewelry for our valued customers.