Jewelry’s sparkle guided by the beauty of nature

The Jewelry Edit: Masters of Time by DFS

The art of jewelry is one of infinite creativity and the ultimate expression of freedom, whether it be from the perspective of a designer or wearer. It’s no secret the inspiration behind so many of the mesmerizing jewelry collections we see today, and historically, rely so heavily on our surroundings. Indeed, the various tales, hues, shapes, textures, and sheer beauty of nature act as the perfect treasure trove for designers to draw inspiration. However, this is not a novel concept; nature has played a part in jewelry for thousands of years, with natural elements used both as materials or blueprints to bring ideas and stories to life, adorned by males and females alike.

Nature has always served as inspiration for beautifully crafted jewelry

All jewelry, whether it be gifted, inherited, or purchased for oneself, has one thing in common: it is meant to be eternal, a belief in everlasting love. Whether it’s a pair of special occasion earrings that are brought out once in a blue moon, or a more subtle necklace that can be worn daily, the act of wearing or gifting jewelry is one of endearment and significance.

The notion of spring within nature is often a theme beloved by jewelers, revered for its profound sense of rebirth, re-emergence, and frivolity. Even in the most challenging times, it is comforting to know that the world continues turning; seasons change as they always do, the sun continues to rise and set each day, flowers bloom with flourish in the warmth and wilt in the cold. Indeed, nature in motion is an unparalleled force, allowing us unlimited access to all its angles, diversities, and constant contrasts. It’s no wonder we so often turn towards nature for a sense of reassurance and protection.

The morning dew on a spring flower has an inherent sparkle

Modern mores have led to a greater appreciation of a healthier and more sustainable planet, valuing quality over quantity, and it seems jewelry designers have jumped at the opportunity to take note. What more ideal time to explore the wonderful, curious world of jewelry?

Certain references can be quite literal, for example, the butterfly, a symbol of transformation, freedom, and hope, is revered for its fluttering motions and brought to life by Damiani in their Masterpiece Animalia collection. The fairytale-like strokes of precious gems bring the wings quite literally into motion on the rings, opening and closing thanks to a special mechanism that follows the movement of the fingers. The affable panda, on the other hand, represents innocence and peace, bringing a great sense of merriment to the Bobo collection by Qeelin.

The colors of life in motion are emulated with precious gems

Ephemeral blooms are quite simply the most sought-after subject matter within jewelry, eternally revered for their beauty, each flower symbolizing a different message. The lotus, for example, is celebrated by De Beers in its Enchanting Lotus collection, adorned in micropavé diamonds and representing purity and eternity. The Frivole collection, brought to us by Van Cleef & Arpels, maintains its signature airy feel with the graphic lines of yellow and rose gold with diamonds, emeralds, and rubies, incorporating several examples of the maison’s skillset.

The everlasting beauty of a jewel contrasts with the ephemeral nature of its floral inspiration

Other references, however, are perhaps more on the metaphoric side; a stunning pear-shaped diamond may invoke the just-formed dew on a leaf, or the deep azure hue of a sapphire to harken the hues of the ocean. A tangle of blaze blue sapphire, tanzanite, aquamarine, blue topaz and turquoise of various cuts and sizes on a Garrard hoop earring have us fantasizing about steamy summer days, crystal clear waters and bright blue skies.

We certainly see numerous instances of how nature has had a secure hold over the world of jewelry and can envisage it to be an enduring relationship indeed.