Markus Franz began his career as a craftsman in 1979 with an apprenticeship as a goldsmith.
After completing his apprenticeship, he spent the years working in various jewelry stores from Zurich to America, where he gained valuable professional experience and further developed his creative style. In 1989, he ventured into self-employment and opened his first shop in Altnau. During this time, his business grew with the addition of his wife, Catherine Franz. In 1998, he relocated his business to the port town of Romanshorn, where Franz Goldschmiede remains an integral part of the port town to this day.
Markus Franz has not only created exceptional pieces of jewelry, but has also trained countless goldsmiths over the years. Among his apprentices have been winners of the Swiss Goldsmith Championship and participants in the World Championship title.
which underlines the high value of his education.
Rémy Mérens has been part of the team since 2015. He also completed his four-year training here and now heads the studio.
Despite the changes and the changing times, Franz’s team remained true to its credo:
to create unique jewelry that tells stories and underlines the personality of its wearer.
Franz Goldschmiede stands not only for handcrafted masterpieces, but also for tradition,
Innovation and connection with the region.
Das Team von Atelier Franz




Our story
Markus E. Franz
Owner and goldsmith,
Customer service
He designs and crafts jewelry, preferably in platinum and with diamonds. He has a passionate passion for mechanical watches, exquisite food, and first-class coffee. In his free time, he can be found touring with his vintage cars.
Catherine Franz
Owner, Sales and Customer Service
Responsible for consulting, administration and enchanting presentation of the shop windows.
Catherine is passionate about precious pearls, high-quality ladies' watches, music with a good dose of blues, and keeps up to date with Betty Bossi's latest cooking trends.
Rémy L. Mérens
Goldsmith and studio manager
Learned the goldsmith trade from Markus Franz.
Enjoys creating jewelry with a rustic and naturalistic flair.
He is a great animal lover, passionate cinephile,
practices strength training and enjoys attending music festivals.
Jonathan Pešek
Goldsmith in training
Complete your four-year goldsmith apprenticeship with us and contribute to the preservation of this fine craft.
Our "Tschäch" likes to discover
hidden treasures in junk shops and is a fan of the Beatles.












