In recent history it has been assumed that 24K pure gold was too soft to be made into jewelry, so other alloys were mixed in to harden the metal (this 14K and 18K gold). Gurhan is renowned for pioneering the revival of 24 K gold and propelling it into popularity as a metal for contemporary fine jewelry design. Before Gurhan pure gold jewelry had not been made since ancient times. With his signature technique of hand hammering each piece, he has perfected the technique so that his gold is strong and durable enough to be worn every day – even strong enough for engagement rings and wedding rings.
Gurhan Orhan was creative with his hands long before he turned to crafting jewelry: whether designing and making audio equipment or restoring old Swiss watches into are pieces his attention to details was evident. It was when a fellow watchmaker handed him a sheet of pure 24 karat gold that Gurhan first fell in love with its warmth, richness, and texture. Compelled to work with pure gold, he settled into a tiny workshop in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, where he was determined to recreate the techniques of the earliest metal smiths. By studying ancient examples of pure gold metalwork, Gurhanwas able to discover how these artist had achieved the strength and lightness that enabled them to turn pure gold into jewelry. Gurhan maintained the authenticity of his craft by also recreating the ancient wooden and bone tools of the earlier artist.
While on vacation from her job in New York as an investment banker, Australian born, Fiona Tilley discovered and fell in love with Gurhan’s jewelry. After tracking him down, she and Gurhan then fell in love with each other! They currently live in New York where Fiona manages the business while Gurhan designs and makes jewelry.
Before Gurhan ventured into his work with pure 24 karat gold, it was assumed that pure gold was too soft to be used in making jewelry. With his signature technique of hand hammering each piece, he has perfected the technique so that his gold is strong and durable enough to be worn every day.
McCaskill& Company is honored be one of the select number of jewelry stores in the country to carry the Gurhan collection. If you love gold, you will love Gurhan – and who does not? We welcome you to drop by our designer jewelry gallery between Destin and Sandestin to enjoy Gurhan’s incredible necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets.
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