Gurhan Jewelry

Born and raised in Turkey, Gurhan studied mathematics and business at the University of Ankara and pursued a variety of careers before finding his true vocation as a jewelry designer and goldsmith. It was through his introduction to the unique qualities of pure 24k gold that Gurhan ultimately discovered his creative muse. Gurhan established his first workshop in 1994 in the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul. Inspired by the elemental beauty of pure gold, he chose to forgo formal training and instead recreate for himself the original techniques of the ancient Anatolian and Byzantine metalsmiths. By deconstructing early examples of pure gold jewelry, he learned how they achieved both the strength and lightness necessary to turn 24k gold into jewelry. Eschewing modern technology, he utilized only the primitive tools and methods of antiquity, such as wood, bone and beach sand for buffing and polishing the metal. Based in New York, Gurhan's jewelry has remained true to its origins: simple, classic lines, the warm, rich hue and voluptuous texture of pure metal and integrity of design and craftsmanship are the hallmarks of his 24k gold collection. All pieces are fabricated by hand within his own studio, either by Gurhan himself or apprentices who, with no previous training in metalsmithing or jewelry, learn the ancient craft in the same manner he did, untainted by modern methods or preconceptions.