The Swiss jewellery maker Bernhard Schobinger does not want to commit himself to the different directions of contemporary jewellery during the last decades but still is one of its most important exponent. His works indicate a pleasure and humour of experimentation, by connecting precious, sometimes cosmic materials with relicts of our throwaway society. Rarely there are smooth forms and symmetric combinations, but a preponderance of brute, almost crude pieces that attract visually and tangibly by their near perfection. The wearer is sensibilised through the contact with the original quality of the materials. They are the basis of his critical examination with jewellery making. The process of production begins with the choice of materials that Schobinger collects in his surroundings, on flea markets, demolition sites or on travels. Objects of waste such as junk, plastic, wood, sheet, bones, disused objects like old arresters, toothbrushes or combs, abandoned jewellery or chemicals are recycled and transformed into jewellery pieces with intentionally few interventions. Techniques play an important role; beside unconventional means, Schobinger uses also modern methods as laser cutting to be able to cut and work with the densest precious stone, the polycrystalline diamond. The chosen way of working demonstrates the sensitive appreciation of the maker towards shabby looking materials.

His work is internationally awarded and shown in museums in Switzerland, France, Germany, The Netherlands, USA and Japan.

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