At first glance, the Elysium figurine captivates with its intricate details and exquisite craftsmanship. The hummingbird, delicately poised to drink nectar from a flower, represents the fragility of our planet's health. The stand, with its zones of destruction and dramatic black finish, serves as a reminder of the precarious balance between nature and human impact. It poses the question: how long can the flower sustain its balance and continue to nourish the bird?
What sets the Elysium figurine apart is not just its aesthetic appeal, but also the innovative technology behind its creation. The design was meticulously crafted using mathematical computations and a fully computerized workflow. With 31 unique parts, the figurine was brought to life through the use of a 3D printer with enhanced resolution, allowing for a level of detail down to 5 microns.
The patented technology of direct casting played a crucial role in achieving the accurate shape geometry and plasticity of the figurine. This breakthrough technique enabled the creation of an item with a metal thickness of just 0.35mm, resulting in a lightweight yet durable structure. The Elysium figurine is made of silver adorned with lab-grown gemstones, showcasing the potential of sustainable materials in the world of fine jewelry.
Measuring 116mm x 116mm x 165mm, the Elysium figurine is a testament to the designer's meticulous attention to detail. With 1848 gems meticulously placed, the design exudes a sense of luxury and elegance. The technical specifications of the figurine highlight the precision and craftsmanship involved in its creation, with a metal thickness of 0.35mm.
One of the engineering challenges faced during the design process was determining the center of mass of the composition to achieve a realistic bird flight. To create the illusion of balance, only one connection point was created between the hummingbird and the flower stem. The collapsed stem construction in the silver figurine adds to the fragility and delicacy of this intricate balance.
The Elysium figurine project commenced in 2018 and was completed in August 2019. It made its debut at the Vicenzaoro International Jewelry Show in September 2019, captivating audiences with its innovative design and sustainable materials.
Through extensive research and development, Roman Zelenin and his team revolutionized the traditional approach to jewelry-making. By leveraging their patented technology, they were able to create a hollow, 3D-printed figurine with a shell thickness of 0.35mm. This groundbreaking achievement not only pushed the boundaries of design but also significantly reduced the amount of precious material required.
The Elysium figurine has garnered recognition for its ingenuity and creative prowess. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category in 2021. This prestigious accolade celebrates designs that embody resourcefulness, technical excellence, and a commitment to improving the quality of life.
With the Elysium figurine, Roman Zelenin has not only created a stunning decorative piece but also demonstrated the immense potential of lab-grown diamonds and 3D printing in the world of luxury jewelry. This design serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between art, nature, and humanity, urging us to cherish and protect our planet.
Project Designers: Roman Zelenin
Image Credits: Roman Zelenin
Project Team Members: Roman Zelenin
Project Name: Elysium
Project Client: Roman Zelenin