A DIAMOND RING, BY RUDOLF HELTZELSet with five square-cut diamonds to the front within channel-setting, to a plain hoop, mounted in 18K gold, maker's mark 'RH', diamonds approximately 0.50ct total, with maker's case, ring size N?In 1966 the celebrated jewellery designer, left his native Berlin for Ireland, settling in Kilkenny where he established his own family run workshop. Hetzel was invited by the Irish Export Board and set about organising studio workshops for training in techniques of working with both gold and silver. His career spans six decades, encompassing a multi-disciplined approach of traditional forms of hand-carved production alongside innovations in the technology of design. There is a strong distinctive design process to his work - combining precious gemstones with metal - his pieces take on an almost abstract sculptural aesthetic. However, jewellery design, by its very nature, comes from a living, physical material and as an item to be worn; it should be functional and complementary to the wearer. Hetzel's jewellery, no matter how diverse in its original inspiration, is always distinctly recognisable. Since the beginning of his career in Ireland, Hetzel has always been interested in sharing his knowledge and experience. His long-standing position within the Irish craft market has allowed him to establish training opportunities for jewellery makers dedicated to keeping ancient traditional skills alive.