March 19, 2015 (Thursday) – University of Applied Sciences Idar-Oberstein and Emil Bohrer & Sohn Gemstone Supplier

Today was all about gemstones, gemstones, gemstones.

In the morning, we visited the University of Applied Sciences where we learnt about the courses they offer then had a traditional barbeque for lunch. I was able to ask Tabea Reulecke about her series of rabbit jewellery exhibited at Schmuckgalerie tal20 in Munich. She said that they were made around 2011, and was invited by the gallery to show them during the Munich Jewellery Week. She chose rabbits because she has a rabbit with black and white spots, named Liberty. She also used to have Casper but he died. She also said that she likes rabbit ears. With tigers, it all started with her cat allergy but wanted to work with them and express their delicateness. And she was able to do that by drawing them using enamel.

This Is How Barbeque Is Done

After lunch, we head on to Emil Bohrer & Sohn, which a wholesale gemstone supplier. Everyone went crazy with the variety of gemstones on offer, cut or uncut. They were a lot cheaper compared to Australian suppliers, and even to other stores in Idar-Oberstein. I bought a letter opener with an agate handle for 2.50 Euros, and I found a similar one later on for 10 Euros. If only I had enough space and weight to bring back a large agate geode with druzy crystals!

Lots of Choices Inside

And More Choices Outside

Various Gemstones - Could You Tell Which Is Which?

Agate Souvenirs

Thank You for Your Assistance and Expertise

Since we took a very long time gemstone shopping, there was not enough time to visit the Gemstone Museum but some of us went back to the University of Applied Sciences in the evening for the ‘bubbly’ Jewellery party.

Delicious Bread with Butter and Parmesan Cheese Prepared for Us for Dinner