In recent decades, some of the world’s leading architects have transitioned from macro-scale projects to a smaller dimension – the world of jewellery design. Architects are visionary designers. They naturally strive to blend their innovative architectural principles with the timeless elegance of diamonds, transforming their architectural prowess into stunning jewellery pieces. As someone with a background in architecture myself, I am eager to showcase how these architects have made a lasting impact in the realm of jewellery design. Here are 3 notable examples:
Zaha Hadid: Futuristic and Sculptural
Zaha Hadid, renowned for her innovative and fluid architectural designs, has seamlessly applied similar principles to her jewellery pieces. Known for pushing the boundaries of design, Hadid’s jewellery features intricate geometries and sculptural elegance, reflecting the same visionary approach she brought to her architecture. Her pieces often incorporate diamonds set in bold, avant-garde forms, merging traditional luxury with contemporary design. This fusion creates a unique aesthetic that stands out in the world of jewellery, making her creations instantly recognisable and highly sought after.
Collections:
On the left: Wangjing SOHO, Beijing; on the right: Left- ring in 18-carat yellow gold with brilliant cut diamonds from Zaha Hadid’s collection for Georg Jensen
Hadid’s collaboration with Georg Jensen, a prestigious Danish design house, resulted in a remarkable collection of diamond-studded jewellery. This collection showcases her signature fluid lines and dynamic forms, translating her architectural vision into wearable art. Each piece in the collection embodies Hadid’s distinct style, characterised by sweeping curves and an organic flow that mirrors her architectural masterpieces. The use of advanced techniques and materials highlights her commitment to innovation and excellence, further cementing her legacy in both architecture and jewellery design. This collaboration not only celebrates Hadid’s unique design language but also exemplifies how architectural concepts can be transformed into exquisite, intimate creations.
Daniel Libeskind: Angular and Conceptual
Daniel Libeskind, celebrated for his avant-garde architectural designs that often explore themes of memory and identity, extends his unique vision into the realm of jewellery design. Known for his distinctive angular forms and conceptual approach, Libeskind’s jewellery pieces are deeply reflective of his architectural philosophy.
Libeskind’s jewellery is characterised by sharp angles, bold lines, and a sense of fragmentation, mirroring the complex geometries of his architectural works. His designs often incorporate symbolic motifs and intricate details that convey deeper narratives, much like his buildings. Each piece is designed to provoke thought and evoke emotion, transforming jewellery into an intermediate of artistic expression.
Collections:
On the left: Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), Toronto; on the right: Swarovski: Eternal Star
One of Libeskind’s notable contributions to jewellery design is his collaboration with Swarovski, a renowned Austrian crystal company. The Libeskind for Swarovski collection features pieces that showcase his signature angular aesthetics and conceptual depth. The jewellery includes striking crystal-encrusted rings, necklaces, and earrings that reflect his architectural style. The use of sharp, faceted crystals and bold, geometric shapes in these pieces, highlights Libeskind’s talent for creating visually arresting designs. This collaboration exemplifies how Libeskind’s architectural expertise can be translated into exquisite, wearable art. His jewellery pieces not only serve as beautiful accessories but also as expressions of his artistic vision, making a significant impact in the world of jewellery design.
Oscar Niemeyer: Modernist and Organic
Oscar Niemeyer, a pioneer of modernist architecture, is celebrated for his use of sweeping curves and organic forms. His architectural philosophy, which emphasises simplicity and harmony with nature, seamlessly translates into his jewellery designs.
Niemeyer’s jewellery pieces reflect his iconic architectural style, characterised by fluid lines and minimalist elegance. His designs often incorporate smooth, flowing curves that mimic the natural landscape, creating a sense of movement and grace. These pieces capture the essence of Niemeyer’s architectural works, where form follows function and beauty is found in simplicity. Each piece of jewellery is designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and thoughtfully constructed, echoing his commitment to functional yet artistic design.
Collections:
On the left: Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre, Spain; on the right: H.Stern’s Oscar Niemeyer Monument earrings
One of Niemeyer’s notable forays into jewellery design was his collaboration with H.Stern, a renowned Brazilian jewellery brand. The Oscar Niemeyer for H.Stern collection includes pieces that are inspired by his architectural masterpieces, such as the curves of the Brasília Cathedral, sleek lines of the Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum or the stairs of Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre. This collection features a range of items including rings, bracelets, and necklaces that embody Niemeyer’s modernist sensibilities. The use of gold and diamonds in these pieces highlights their luxurious appeal, while the organic shapes ensure they remain timeless and elegant. Niemeyer’s jewellery designs not only pay homage to his architectural legacy but also offer a unique perspective on how architectural principles can be translated into wearable art. This collaboration underscores Niemeyer’s ability to infuse his architectural vision into every facet of design, making a significant impact in the world of jewellery.
Jewellery designers have always found inspiration in iconic architecture. Bulgari draws from ancient Greek and Roman designs, while Lalique line echoes Art Nouveau and Art Deco movement, closely tied to architectural styles. Now architects are adding their modern touch to jewellery design, offering women the chance to carry a piece of their favourite architectural marvels with them every day. Can you imagine? Wearing a miniature masterpiece from your favourite museum or cathedral, as if they were built right upon your fingers?
