Augusto Vasconcelos
Abílio Pereira
Alexander Laut
Jewellery designer
He was born in Moscow and studied medicine. The difficult things he witnessed as a doctor changed the course of his life. He emigrated to the USA and has had many professions. The road to success as a jewellery designer has been a long one, but nowadays Alexander Laut is renowned for his timeless jewellery with hints of eccentricity. He settled in Lisbon two years ago and sees himself as «a Russian-American-Portuguese designer». «After great success in Asia, America and the Middle East», he believes that his art will also be recognised in Europe.
Is being a renowned jewellery designer a dream come true?
Indeed it is. I always wanted to leave my mark in the jewellery world, although I must admit to being influenced by the work of René Boivin, Verdura, and Harry Winston. My path to success has been a long one; it took two decades. But from the very beginning, I knew I was on to something. Putting your own name on high jewellery is a huge responsibility and one I have always been aware of.
What stimulates Alexander Laut’s creativity?
First of all the precious stones themselves; they are the defining element of each piece, the starting point. My designs are born on my journeys to exotic places – Hawaii, Japan, and Macau, where I’ve been fortunate to spend some time. From the moment I settled in Portugal, two years ago, Lisbon’s history and architecture, the magic of azulejos and the country’s colourful culture have had a strong impact on the shapes and colours of Alexander Laut jewellery.
«Lisbon’s history and architecture, the magic of azulejos and the country’s colourful culture have had a strong impact on the shapes and colours of Alexander Laut jewellery»
Just what is it that makes your jewellery different from the rest?
Honesty and creativity. Honesty is in the uniqueness and sensuality of the central stone, a product of nature. Creativity is when a marvellously important stone falls into your hands and you don’t allow your designer ego to betray it. My jewellery is also distinguished by timeless classic design with a hint of the eccentric.
You have a boutique in Lisbon. How have the Portuguese reacted to your creations? And, around the world, does Alexander Laut jewellery continue to enjoy the success you strive for?
I am not a naive person; I clearly understand that Alexander Laut is a newcomer. Portugal has its own history of jewellery, but, having lived here for a while, I’m proud to call myself a Russian-American-Portuguese designer. Moreover, I see Lisbon developing into a cosmopolitan city. Around the world I’m enjoying even more success than I expected. If you honestly believe in what you do, eventually you will win the support of experts and collectors all over the globe.
What plans do you have for the Alexander Laut brand in the future?
As a relatively young brand with a history of less than 25 years, I remain humble and at the same time I feel very strong. After great success in Asia, America and the Middle East, I would like to re-establish myself as a prominent Europe-based jewellery artist. I’m finally at home on Portuguese shores and I’m here to succeed and to stay.
