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History

The founder seated in a Kyoto room with painted screens

Harding's Profile

After growing up in the Opal mining regions of Australia in the 1950s and studying mineralogy in the UK, he arrived in Japan in 1983. Deeply influenced by Kyoto's Zen philosophy and traditional Japanese aesthetics, he established Bruce Co., Ltd. in 1985.

In 1995, he launched the original brand DREAMTIME. With a unique design philosophy that seamlessly fuses the magnificent nature of Australia with the aesthetic sensibilities of Japan, he continues to earn global acclaim to this day.

  1. 1950s–1960s

    Australian Origins

    Raised in the Opal mining regions of Australia. His childhood, spent amidst the vast nature of Australia and the spiritual culture of the Indigenous Aborigines, formed the philosophical foundation of Dreamtime.

    Dusk over the Australian outback
  2. 1970s

    Study and Exploration

    Traveled to the UK at age 13 to study mineralogy. Subsequently, driven by the goal of establishing his own jewellery brand, he embarked on a global journey to study international art, crafts, culture, and design.

  3. 1983

    Arrival in Japan

    Arrived in Japan. He was profoundly moved by traditional Japanese culture, martial arts, and aesthetics. Later, establishing his base in Kyoto, he drew immense inspiration from Zen philosophy and the aesthetics of Japanese gardens.

  4. 1985

    Foundation & Philosophy

    Established Bruce Co., Ltd. Co-founded the brand Bruce Bruno alongside his mentor, the late Bruno Moser, a master Opal & gemstone carving jeweller, and held an exclusive brand exhibition at the Australian Embassy.

    During this period, he solidified his unique design philosophy: maximising the individuality of gemstones, harmonising with nature, emphasising balance, and pursuing a beauty that over the years has become recognisable as a DREAMTIME creation.

    The founder with his mentor Bruno Moser
  5. 1995

    DREAMTIME

    Launched the original brand DREAMTIME. Introduced a brand concept that masterfully harmonises the philosophy of the Indigenous Aborigines with the worldview of Kyoto Zen.

  6. 2000s

    Australian Opal Era

    Strengthened networks with Australian Opal mines. Established a comprehensive approach to handling every step - from the selection of rough stones to design and production - with a focus on rare stones like Black and Boulder Opals.

    The founder examining stones at his desk
  7. 2006–2011

    Global Expansion

    Began exhibiting at the Fine Design Pavilion, Asia's premier jewellery show in Hong Kong. His Opal masterpieces garnered high praise from international buyers, significantly boosting global recognition for his Opal creations.

    In 2011, he accelerated his global expansion by exhibiting at the Shanghai Jewellery Show and securing an exclusive contract for dedicated Bruce & Co and DREAMTIME Collection boutiques in a luxury shopping district in Moscow.

    The DREAM TIME booth at a jewellery showA boutique arcade with DREAM TIME display cases
  8. 2012–2013

    Brand Archive & Exhibition

    Published the brand's first history book, Dreamtime, in 2012. It stands as a comprehensive tribute to Australian nature, Kyoto's four seasons, his creative philosophy, and his signature works. The following year, in 2013, he held a highly successful solo exhibition in Malaysia.

    The Dreamtime history book, opened on a tableA DREAM TIME exhibition stand
  9. Present

    The Journey Continues

    While actively showcasing his works at exhibitions across Japan, he continuously participates in international jewellery shows in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and other countries. He remains dedicated to sharing his one-of-a-kind jewellery with the world.

    Additionally, many private clients work with him to create their own unique pieces of jewellery that become family heirlooms.

    The founder at a recent international jewellery show
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