His wife Monika took over the business after he passed away. She’s been in charge since 2000. In 2007 she founded a company named “Zlatarna Popek” (Jewellery Popek) and has remained an active member of the craft and trade association. She states that Stjepan was a well-known artisan with a knack for aesthetics. He designed world-class pieces of jewellery and embedded diamonds. Aside from Monika, Jewellery Popek’s team includes master Dragutin Jakšić and her sister Mira Petrović.
Their offer includes making one-of-a-kind golden jewellery, handwork, embedding precious gemstones and restoring antique jewellery. All the work in the shop is done in a classic way using traditional techniques. Coral jewellery is an important part of the offer as well. Tourists who value a good handmade product are drawn by sophisticated design, craftsmanship and materials.
Photo: Davor Puklavec/PIXSELL
“Word-of-mouth marketing is our best advertising tool. We take great pride in the fact that we can perform the most complicated repair work in addition to making one-of-a-kind jewellery. People often turn to us when their jewellery situation gets out of hand. You could say that by repairing and restoring jewellery we are in a way taking a trip down memory lane. Patience is vital when it comes to a good custom-made jewellery making process. You take one step at a time while always listening to your client’s wishes. People used to buy more back in the day, but jewellery Popek has clients who recognise our uniqueness so they’re willing to pay more and reward our hard work. A satisfied customer is the thing that drives us forward”, says Monika Popek.
