Page 164 - VIP TASTE OF PITTSBURGH

A that is changing the way we do things. Both men agree that the reason handmade now is far more than what it used to be, is thanks to technological advancements. Much of the design work can be done through the computer, where the designers are able to draw out in- timate details. In addition to creating the perfect piece of jewelry, the designers keep their doors open to cus- tomers that come in needing something fixed. While there may be some pieces that are beyond fix, Paul says if the customer is willing to take a chance, they’ll try the best they can to turn trash to treasure. After all, they admit that it’s all about taking risks, because mak- ers are changing the world and even if they’re falling,
they’re also succeeding.
unique bond is one of the premier attributes that aids in the success of the Mock & Co. label. The cohesion that Anthony Mock and Paul Bierker of Paul Michael Design have created in each of their businesses has allowed them to deliver beauty and perfection for customers in thirty-eight different countries. Anthony brings luxury and style, seeing lines and customizing to a tee. On the other hand, Paul is a visionary that pulls out the story attached to the jewelry. Together, they’ve created a bond and gained respect from the public for their unique work.
Anthony Mock has been designing jewelry for nearly 16 years and just recently moved to the Paul Michael Design studio. Prior to the Lawrenceville location, he was at his office in Squirrel Hill focusing primarily on wholesale. The jewelry guru felt he wasn’t growing at the pace he wanted and it prompted the business move. He says it’s important to him to see the produc- tion process, who’s making it, and knowing that it’s the absolute best piece the customer can get.
His start in the jewelry business came when he was working at a jewelry kiosk in the mall, where he would try to watch and imitate what his boss was doing. He became intrigued by it all and began learning more. Eventually, he got an offer from both Jared’s and Kole- man’s and learned finer type jewelry.
He now has his sights set on luxurious, high-fashion pieces that still look good with your everyday outfit. All of the stones that go into the Mock & Co. piec- es come from Israel and are all high-quality, natural certified diamonds and gem stones. If the customer comes to him with general ideas regarding color, detail, and type, he gets creative and turns a perfect vision into a unique treasure.
Both Anthony and Paul agree that Mock & Co. and the jewelry industry as a whole is evolving. Custom- ers are now able to get more involved in the process whether it’s designing the ring or pouring the gold, the men at the Paul Michael Design studio create an experience instead of solely a purchase. “We’re not just selling a product,” says Paul, “We’re selling a piece of life. It’s high-contact, fully intimate jewelry.”
The perfect product begins with an idea from the cus- tomer, a vision from the designers, and technology
SHOP MOCKANDCO.COM
61
TASTEPGH.COM