Orbit A Collection: Blending Minimalism and Craftsmanship in Jewelry Design

A Unique Combination of Metals and Mixed Materials

By Suyu Chen

Orbit A Collection, designed by Suyu Chen, is a stunning jewelry collection that seamlessly blends minimalism and craftsmanship. Inspired by the history of craft-making and the concept of modularity in art, this collection showcases the beauty of combining metals and mixed materials, such as plastic tubes and resin, to create wearable and sculptural objects.

Chen's design process was driven by a desire to explore her Chinese cultural background and the idea of modularity in traditional art fields. The collection pays homage to the repeated use of the same component, plastic electrical conduits, to create unique and thought-provoking jewelry pieces. Beyond the exploration of forms and functions, the collection also aims to evoke feelings of nostalgia and self-identity that arise from being away from home.

What sets Orbit A Collection apart is its focus on handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces. Each jewelry work in the collection is meticulously crafted, featuring a combination of precious metals and mixed materials. By incorporating plastic tubes and resin, the collection embodies the relationship between traditional arts and modern mass production. The plastic tubes are randomly separated, textured, and colored, resulting in minimalist and elegant forms that are truly one-of-a-kind.

The realization of the collection involved a combination of traditional metalsmithing techniques and alternative medium processes. The metal structures were created using techniques such as soldering, forming, and chain-making. For the alternative medium parts, plastic-welding and various paint combinations, including enamel paints, gesso, and acrylic, were utilized.

The Orbit A Collection features a range of jewelry pieces, including brooches and necklaces. The brooch measures 35*35*145mm, while the double-tube necklace measures 127*40*50mm. The chain link statement necklace is 250*250*30mm in size.

This collection has garnered international recognition and has been exhibited at prestigious events such as New York City Jewelry Week, JOYA, Gioielli in Fermento, Art in Media, and Beijing International Jewellery Exhibition. It is a testament to Chen's dedication to her craft and her ability to create jewelry that resonates with audiences around the world.

Orbit A Collection is not only a beautiful display of design and craftsmanship, but it also serves as a reminder of the power of art to evoke emotions and tell stories. By combining metals and mixed materials in innovative ways, Suyu Chen has created a collection that is both visually striking and deeply meaningful.

Image Credits: Photographer Suyu Chen, Orbit A Collection, 2019; Photographer Jiageng Lin, Orbit A Collection, 2020

Awards and Accolades: Orbit A Collection was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category in 2022. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The collection's integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and its contribution to a better world make it a deserving recipient of this honor.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Suyu Chen
Image Credits: Image #1, #2, #3 and #4 Photographer Suyu Chen, Orbit A Collection, 2019 Image #5, Photographer Jiageng Lin, Orbit A Collection, 2020
Project Team Members: Suyu Chen
Project Name: Orbit A Collection
Project Client: Suyu Chen


Orbit A Collection IMG #2
Orbit A Collection IMG #3
Orbit A Collection IMG #4
Orbit A Collection IMG #5
Orbit A Collection IMG #5

Read More on Design Radiant