Alexander Laut

www.alexanderlaut.com

Alexander Laut is a Russian-born master jeweller extraordinaire whose career has been as circuitous as has his life been culturally diverse, encompassing his Russian roots, Japanese and Hawaiian islandaesthetics, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Laut has been a jewellery designer for 25 years.

The explosion of colours in some of his designs is reminiscent of aristocratic Russian headdresses and each piece is unique and bold in its own way.

“I was born and raised in Russia but moved to the USA at the age of 24. I first began bringing my jewellery designs to life in Honolulu, Hawaii, having taken endless inspirations from the beautiful island scenery. I then spent a considerable amount of time in Bangkok, Thailand, immersing myself in the culture there. I now live in Lisbon but still travel. Being born and raised in Soviet Russia, I was greatly inspired by the colourful Eurasian cultures and traditions. Moving to exotic Hawaii opened a new world of inspiration, which is equally reflected in my works. I credit the house of Harry Winston, and especially his son, Ronald, for motivating me to create “big and bold”, one-of-a-kind pieces.”

The ingenious mix of important precious stones together with semi-precious gems in some of his designs results in designs that are at once idiosyncratic, playful and sophisticated.

“In my most recent work I focus on rare, natural and untreated gems, such as corundum. I avoid on-trend materials such as titanium and aluminium, preferring to use traditional materials like platinum and gold. I see my designs as fit for any occasion – my pieces are different and outside the box.”

Laut sources his own gems and builds each piece around the precious stone rather than trying to fit the gem into his design concept.

“I believe that the integrity of each piece is based to a large extent on the value and beauty of the gem stone. At the moment I am working on an exclusive piece for a long-time collector: a pearl and diamond necklace consisting of 27 pearls, each sized above 20mm.

Collectors of my work are from all over the world. They are looking for unusual, unique and truly one-of-a-kind pieces. Still, my designs reflect what inspires me rather than being created with a specific individual in mind. I believe that my pieces speak for themselves and that is what attracts the collectors.”

On collectible jewellery

“I believe that people are attracted to creations that resonate with them. This makes them want to collect more of the same. Collectors are also able to identify timeless pieces. In order for a piece to be timeless, it has to be made from genuine, natural, untreated stones. My creations are sustainable and unique because the rawness of the process is reflected in the final product. Statement pieces attract people for different reasons: they may satisfy an aesthetic pursuit or one of rarity but in any case, they always draw attention. Collectors, on the other hand, have a more personal connection to the pieces.”

Feature pieces

“The work featured in this book ranges from conservative and classic pieces to playful and ironic creations. I feel the featured work reflects who I am as an artist and as an individual: it is a testimony to a certain emotional and aesthetic value, which is what I feel a good piece of jewellery ought to be.”

“I believe that the integrity of each piece is based to a large extent on the value and beauty of the gem stone.”