JP Stuhlreyer discovered a love for jewelry design during his time at Grand Valley State University. After graduating in 2023, Stuhlreyer is halfway through an apprenticeship working at Tiffany & Co. as a bench jeweler. As Stuhlreyer repairs and creates pieces of jewelry, he reflects fondly on his studio arts classes at the University.

Stuhlreyer said he knew when he started college that he wanted to work with his hands and create, but he didn’t initially know where that would lead him. He began his studies at GVSU as an engineering major working on skateboards, and on a whim, chose an elective course in jewelry. He took 3-D Design (ART 151) with GVSU Professor Renne Zettle-Sterling, and quickly discovered a hidden talent for making jewelry. Stuhlreyer then switched to the BFA program in Studio Arts with an emphasis on Jewelry and Metalsmithing.

Zettle-Sterling mentored Stuhlreyer, providing him with the resources he needed to become a skilled jeweler. After seeing his potential, Zettle-Sterling encouraged Stuhlreyer to switch majors, and pursue a career as a bench jeweler. Zettle-Sterling attributes Stuhlreyer’s success to strong hand-eye coordination and a burning curiosity to understand how artwork is made. Stuhlreyer began making jewelry as gifts to his mother and girlfriend, which further deepened his passion for the craft.

“Everyone around him (Stuhlreyer) enjoyed his company,” Zettle-Sterling said. “(He) really made the class a better place to be.” 

Stuhlreyer said that during his time in the course, Zettle-Sterling was committed to uplifting students, going above and beyond to support them in their education. He recalled a time during the COVID-19 pandemic when he had been sick, and could not attend class. He called Zettle-Sterling with concerns about falling behind on an important class project. Zettle-Sterling took it upon herself to drive to Stuhlreyer’s home and deliver the necessary materials for him to complete the project.

“She (Zettle-Sterling) genuinely cared about each student,” Stuhlreyer said. “She’s going to do what she needs to do to make sure you succeed.”

After graduating from GVSU, Stuhlreyer came across an apprenticeship program on the Tiffany & Co. website on the last day for applicants to apply. He quickly put together a resume and sent it in. After his application had been accepted, he did a series of interviews, including an in-person interview, where he had to fly to New York City. Before Stuhlreyer could secure the apprenticeship, he had to pass a bench test, in which jewelers prove their abilities. Stuhlreyer said although he was nervous, he drew from the teachings of Zettle-Sterling and his practice at GVSU, and was able to pass. 

Stuhlreyer is currently working at a Tiffany & Co. facility in Cumberland, Rhode Island, where he collaborates with some of the world’s finest silversmiths. The apprenticeship involves Stuhlreyer making and repairing jewelry as a bench jeweler. The facility where Stuhlreyer works is responsible for producing important awards like the NFL’s Vince Lombardi Trophy and the U.S. Open Cup for Major League Soccer. It is also where Tiffany & Co.’s iconic silver bowls are made, which are famous for their Audubon patterns. 

“You never stop learning in jewelry,” Stuhlreyer said. “It’s (the craft of jewelry making) just kind of an endless (rotation) of new people that are going to teach you something.”

Stuhlreyer said that after graduation, he’s stayed in touch with Zettle-Sterling, and keeps her updated on his career progress.

“With fine jewelry, the ability to create something amazing is endless,” Struhlreyer told GVNext.