Jeweller Profile: Karl Stittgen
Moonstone, Cultured Pearl, Turquoise and 18K Gold Brooch, Karl Stittgen, circa 1970.
As Canada’s premier jewellery auction house, Dupuis Fine Jewellery Auctioneers takes pride in our collection of one-of-a-kind pieces from the world’s most renowned designers.
This month we’re showcasing a selection of exclusive signature pieces from Vancouver-based custom jeweller, Karl Stittgen, noted for his use of edgy, architecturally-inspired motifs juxtaposed with organic sculptural forms found in nature. Even the company logo and maker’s mark is an attractive, suitably symbolic ginkgo leaf. Most easily recognizable is his bold use of repetition, exuberant cluster-effects and hammered or molten textures contrasted with a high polish, sometimes with just a judiciously modest sprinkling of diamonds or the addition of a coloured gem or a few pearls. The most iconic designs feature fine metalwork as the major starring attraction and the gem accents are frequently the understudy.
Gold Gingko Leaf Brooch, by Karl Stittgen.
Karl Stittgen emigrated from Germany in the early 1950s and established himself as a prominent jeweller and watchmaker in West Vancouver. His creations soon gained global recognition and consequently he opened additional Stittgen stores in Calgary, New York and San Francisco. In his golden years, he trained many Master Goldsmiths who carry on his traditions and techniques today.
Karl Stittgen’s profound impact on both local and international jewellery design was honoured in 2009, when he received the Creative Achievement Award of Distinction at the 5th annual British Columbia Creative Achievement Awards for Applied Art and Design.
Though now essentially retired, his legacy continues: Stittgen Fine Jewellery maintains the founder’s signature contemporary style and dedication to exceptional workmanship, further allowing these distinctive designs to be deservedly appreciated by a new generation of collectors. And, as with any truly exceptional fine jewellery brand, the creations stand the test of time.
Stittgen designs are deceptively simple, yet elegant in their audacity.
Here is a sampling of some of the handcrafted Stittgen pieces that will be up for bidding at Dupuis Fine Jewellery Auctioneers:
Buying an engagement ring at an auction
Lot 324: Canadian Heart-Shaped Diamond Ring.
So you finally decided to pop the question. But before you get down on one knee, you need to find the perfect ring for your proposal. This is perhaps one of the most important purchases you will ever make – talk about pressure!
While choosing the right engagement ring can seem an almost impossible task, it can also be a memorable experience, especially if you opt to forego the retail route, and the added hassle of dealing with pushy sales people, and instead buy a one-of-a-kind piece at a jewellery auction.
Shop at an auction, expand your options
Buying your engagement ring at an auction is accessible no matter what your preferences or budget. In fact, you can expect to pay considerably less than you would shopping at a traditional bricks-and-mortar jewellery store. You can feel confident knowing you’re getting the most bling for your buck. Got a question? Staff are onsite with spec and tech info.
In addition to great value, the selection of engagement rings available at an auction is unrivalled. Whether your soon-to-be fiancé prefers vintage opulence or understated modern elegance, you’re bound to come across a unique style that pleases them – and your wallet.
How does buying at Dupuis work?
Here at Dupuis Fine Jewellery Auctioneers, there are many ways to bid when buying jewellery at auction. We suggest attending the live auction for the experience; however, you can also bid live online or over the phone. You can view the lots ahead of time in our gallery showroom or with our searchable online catalogue. All condition reports for each piece are easy to access, too.
Here is a sampling of just a few of the dazzling diamonds that will be available in the upcoming auction.
