Ever since he was a small boy Gad Leinson’s passion has been to build miniature models.  Fired by this passion he always knew that he wanted to become a goldsmith by profession.

After school Gad became an apprentice at a goldsmith’s workshop in Helsinki.   Knowing exactly what he wanted and wishing to move forward he was not satisfied to stay in his apprenticeship so he set his sights to Israel, where the secrets of goldsmiths have been handed down from father to son for many generations.  In 1983 Gad spent 6 months at a goldsmith’s workshop in a Kibbutz learning the basics.  He then studied intensively for one year in Jaffa.  As a talented student, Gad made an impression and he was granted an apprenticeship to join the workshop of the world famous Viktor Naaman in Tel Aviv.

The apprenticeship at Viktor’s workshop was not a holiday nor was it for gaining praises.  The days were long and the discipline was strict.  Viktor was a hard and demanding teacher and often Gad’s days ended in tears.  But he wouldn’t give up.  He had made up his mind to become a goldsmith and prove to himself and to others that he could do it.  Little by little, due to his extremely hard work, Viktor’s criticisms grew fewer and the feedback became encouraging, then appreciating.  Furthermore, as a result of Gad’s resilience, determination and steadfast studying he had the honour to be included in the team which designed and made a gift for Nancy Reagan.

After five years of employment Gad returned to Finland in order to start a business as a goldsmith in Helsinki.  GL-Koru was founded in 1988.  As the business grew the workshop and the business premises needed to be moved twice before moving to its present premises at 9 Kalevankatu.

Gad Leinson’s concept has always been clear: to design and make individual, unique and high quality jewellery for people who understand and value traditional craftsmanship.