Thomas Sabo: "My relationship with jewellery? Not far from obsession"
The family jewellery brand is celebrating its 40th anniversary with an exclusive collection, a nod to its fortunately extensive archives. Meeting with a creator who is as discreet as he is rebellious.
A crowd flocks to the Peninsula's Chinese restaurant. And for good reason, that evening, the Thomas Sabo jewellery brand is celebrating its 40th anniversary there , with, among other things, a calligraphy workshop on a fan, and the discovery of the new Rebellious Glam collection. “I can't help but think about the beginnings, when it all began, ” admits Thomas Sabo, a few minutes from the reception . “ My family is very proud of everything we have accomplished so far, and of what we will do in the future.”
Is it still necessary to present this German designer, now known throughout the world for his blackened silver jewellery? He designed his first model at the age of 22, with Sri Lankan goldsmiths during a road trip in Asia: a snake ring with ruby eyes and an aquamarine in the center. “I will remember it all my life,” says the designer. “From day one, I felt this passion for jewellery. But I was just buying them, until the day I told myself that maybe this was my vocation, that I had to start designing my own . » Very quickly, he made money his trademark, fascinated by its colour, which he reworked over the years. “I tried to make the production of silver jewellery easier,” assures Thomas Sabo, who has meanwhile started recycling. “I trained in mechanics, hence my technical knowledge in this area.”
It is the Charm Club collection which will mark a turning point in the history of Thomas Sabo, this playful and engaging line which consists of hanging tassels on links, creating in some way a unique piece of jewelry. The success is resounding. “To be honest, we had this idea almost by accident, while having a drink in a bar in Hong Kong,” he remembers . “We were like children. Everyone was thinking, remembering their past, their hobbies, and thus coming up with ideas for charms to collect. It also turns out that I had recently read an old book about it, because the concept has actually been around since the Stone Age. »
For the anniversary collection, Rebellious Glam, Thomas Sabo delved into the brand's archives. Certain pieces emerged, before being updated for the occasion. We then find numerous snakes, flowers, the dragon in all its forms, symbolizing the first years of the brand, but also a ring displaying an "eye of Providence", or even the "winged heart" motif with protective power. Revisited crosses, silver chains, chockers, earrings, bracelets and rings in blackened silver set with faceted gems complete this very special line, which pays a subtle homage to love, dreams, and adventure. “My current relationship with jewellery is not far from obsession ,” he continues. An obsession that infected the whole family, since with his son Santiago and his wife Rita, a visual artist, they created Saboteur, a play on words that hides a brand of piercings, and more precious pieces, this time in 18-carat gold. As for the future, they will be charitable. Thomas Sabo has found the resources to carry out great social projects, particularly in Asia, where his wife supports, for example, access to education for children. “I would like to get even more involved in charity work in the future. It's part of our life now. »
Collection available from July 26, 2024, exclusively in Thomas Sabo stores worldwide and on www.thomassabo.com