Jeff Hoopman

Jewellery maker | Akersloot, Netherlands

Bejewelled alchemy

Jeff started out as a diamond merchant
His first creation was a golden bird covered in gemstones
Traditional and hi-tech methods fuse in his work

Master goldsmith Jeff Hoopman was captivated by gold as a young child, wanting to become a gold-digger, hiking through the Alaskan mountains, searching for gold nuggets with a pickaxe. He served his goldsmith’s apprenticeship working for various diamond merchants in Amsterdam, Gassan Diamonds amongst others. Armed with invaluable knowledge, he continued to hone his goldsmithing skills by heading a service workshop for Siebel, and Schaap & Citroen for over six years before setting up his own enterprise in 2008. The first piece he made as an independent goldsmith was an 18-carat gold shoulder brooch in the shape of a cheerful bird, "Happy Birdy", laden with gemstones and a golden arrow piercing the heart of a pink sapphire.

Interview

©Jeff Hoopman Jewels

Why did you choose goldsmithing as your craft?: Being a jewellery maker is truly unique in the world. You get to work with cool tools and equipment, precious metals and gems that mark a special or emotional event for people in their lives. It is a path that is just right for me.
How do you balance tradition and innovation in your work?: I use old-fashioned techniques such as the Delft casting method, riveting and various engraving plugs as well as Brussels Earth, and I also use CAD/CAM design, a microscope to set stones, vacuum-powered casting, and laser welding.
What is a memorable highlight from your career so far?: Meeting Sir Gabi Tolkowsky at a Trade Fair in Munich. He is a master diamond cutter known for cutting the Centenary, a diamond valued at over 100 million dollars. But perhaps recognition from valued colleagues through my appointment as Master at the Dutch Guild of Goldsmiths tops it all.
What advice would you give to aspiring jewellery makers?: Words have power. Talk about your passion, read about what fascinates you, make connections, do your work the way you like it best and seize your opportunities. Work harder for yourself than for your boss, live healthily and follow your intuition.

Jeff Hoopman is an expert artisan: he began his career in 1992 and he started teaching in 2022