A golden point of view
- Frans specialises in handmade gold glasses
- His aim is to enhance the character and beauty of the person wearing them
- He trains apprentices and is a mentor to other master goldsmiths
Frans Vuerink creates bespoke handmade eyeglasses exclusively in 18k gold. He first trained as a financial accountant before making a radical change, which brought him to study at a goldsmithing school. After graduating, he learned on the job by restoring historic jewellery and later trained under the famous Dutch master Alexander van den Hoven. One day, in 2002, he saw some 18k gold glasses while visiting his optician. “That was the moment I felt the urge to create my own. I gave myself a year to discover how to make gold glasses by hand, and in December 2002 I completed my first collection of five pairs of glasses.” His label, Vue d’Or, stands for the highest possible quality and craftsmanship.
INTERVIEW
The history of Dutch goldsmiths is very rich and the Dutch are known for being innovative. As a goldsmith I was looking for something that I personally like to wear. It was the challenge and the romance of rediscovering a craft that did not exist anymore.
I master a whole range of old and new goldsmithing techniques, which are required to refine and improve the quality and style of the glasses. On top of that, I've taught myself many things, like how to make templates, profiles, technical measurements and angles/degrees.
I find my inspiration in people, nature and the history of jewellery making. I always think about the 'spirit' of our time, striving to make timeless and harmonious glasses which perfectly fit the proportions and features of my clients, enhancing their look and personality.
To see clients sparkle when they leave my workshop! I interpret people's desire to be authentic and beautiful by creating bespoke glasses for them. And I love the contrast between the down-to-earth craftsmanship and the refined luxury of the finished product.
