FOLLOWING the release of the first chapter of the Alchemist of Light jewellery collection in January of this year, De Beers has debuted the sequel at Paris Couture Week. Exploring light in experimental ways, the collection consists of 45 one-of-a-kind pieces, masterfully fusing couture with jewellery design.
As according the house’s CEO, Céline Assimon: “The Alchemist of Light High Jewellery collection represents the most creatively and technically ambitious collection we have ever conceived and crafted.” After seeing the intricate use of colour, pattern and geometry, it certainly is not hard to see why.
De Beers Alchemist of Light – Dusk Reflection
De Beers Alchemist of Light – Optical Wonder
The assembly of jewels are divided into five separate categories, each of which have an underlying theme and shift from the aesthetic of the last. Dusk Reflection, inspired by the soft glow of a sunset on the horizon, reimagines the house’s enchanted lotus motif amid a series of diamond shape designs, entirely crafted in a palette of pink and white.
The delicacy of this series differs entirely from that of the Optical Wonder chapter, which is distinctly bolder and more experimental with its designs. Inspired by the work of Op art movement figure, Victor Vasarely, earrings, necklaces and rings are crafted to create an almost illusionary effect with careful swirls and hypnotic patterns.
De Beers Alchemist of Light – Ascending Shadows
De Beers Alchemist of Light – Midnight Aura
De Beers Alchemist of Light – Frozen Capture
Inspiration is found in a variety of places which allows the collection to emote effortlessly to variety of consumers with differing tastes. From the references to the staircase in the De Beers Bond Street store in Ascending Shadows, to the allusions of stardust in Midnight Aura, the collection certainly positions itself as a standout for the fine jewellers, one which becomes as comparable to art as it does accessories.
by Ben Sanderson