UNVEILED at the Grand Hotel Timeo in Taormina earlier this month, the new Dior Print high jewellery collection is an experimental excursion into differing patterns, textures and colour.
Designed by Victoire de Castellane, the collection mimics the behaviour of two-dimensional fabric with three-dimensional jewels, with a variety of prints infused throughout the accessories. This was something further emphasised during the collections debut, in which it was shown alongside the latest haute-couture creations designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri.
With an almost sculptural element, the collection itself transcends from just being yet another necklace or pair of earrings, but epitomises the very meaning of what high jewellery is, in turn transforming to become objects comparable to works of art.
Dior Print. Photograph: Andrea Cenetiempo.
The collection satisfies Castellanes long-awaited desire to “draw prints on jewellery,” furthermore challenging pre-disposed notions with her intriguing mix of colour. From gradient tie-dye like patterns, to checkered motifs, the refreshing approach distances itself from frequented monochrome collections of diamonds and instead adds an element of individuality and complexity making these pieces appear as though they were on of a kind.
For instance, a navy tone is created through the use of sapphires, which are further utilised in pink, violet and white tones adorning various pieces.
Dior Print. Photograph: Alessandro-Garofalo
A true standout of the collection is the ribbon necklace, completed with an inset of a 12.07 karat Madagascan Sapphire. The delicate intricacy of the design almost acts as an optical illusion as the ribbon itself appears fluid and in-motion, similar to that of the braided liberty print necklace created of rubies, spinels and yellow diamonds.
Dior Print. Photograph: Andrea Cenetiempo.
Consisting of 137 pieces, ranging from cuffs, earrings, rings and necklaces, the collection is Castellane’s natural graduation from some of her earlier experimentation, entirely signifying an incomparable sense of craftsmanship and concluding in a body of work that is near jaw-dropping.
by Ben Sanderson