Ripples: A Jewelry Design Inspired by Nature

An Exquisite Set by Yingting Yang

The Ripples jewelry set, designed by Yingting Yang, is a stunning example of wearable art that draws inspiration from the beauty of nature. The designer was captivated by the image of a pond in spring, where the wind gently wrinkles the water's surface, creating a mesmerizing effect. This abstract representation of nature has been translated into a unique and exquisite piece of jewelry.

What sets the Ripples set apart is the use of specially cut jadeite, adorned with unique inclusions that resemble flowing plants in a drop of water. The gem is meticulously decorated with a total of 189 princess cut diamonds, arranged with slotted inner edges to mimic the slow expansion of waves. The necklace, designed with ergonomics in mind, is made from a one-piece molding stretchy hollow gold, minimizing its weight. It embraces the body's curvatures with its five different layers, ensuring both comfort and style.

The realization of the Ripples set involves the use of 18K gold, jadeites, and diamonds. The central structure of the necklace is a hollow gold tube, specially designed with bending ability to reduce its weight. The diamonds are slotted on one side, creating a thin inner layer and a regular-sized outer layer, replicating the expansion of ripples. The earrings feature moon-shaped pieces that can be wiggled to maximize the luster of the diamonds.

The Ripples necklace measures 150 mm in width, 12 mm in depth, and 157 mm in height, while the earrings have dimensions of 60 mm in width, 7 mm in depth, and 30 mm in height. This wearable piece of art functions as both a necklace and earrings, adding a touch of elegance to any ensemble.

The Ripples set was designed in March 2021 and completed in November 2021 in Kunming. Yingting Yang's research for this design focused on highlighting the natural beauty of gems with inclusions, challenging the notion that such gems are flawed. The project involved sourcing raw jadeite with inclusions, cutting them into the appropriate shapes and sizes, and showcasing their unique characteristics in the final design.

The creative and technical challenges of the Ripples project were overcome with careful attention to detail. The circular shape of the necklace was meticulously tuned to fit naturally on different body types, ensuring a comfortable and flattering fit. Each layer of diamond waves was designed to provide maximum visual impact without causing any discomfort to the wearer.

The Ripples necklace and earrings set is a testament to the designer's vision and craftsmanship. The translucent jadeite with flowing water-like inclusions, surrounded by a diamond set on an 18K gold plate, creates a captivating ripple effect. This design not only celebrates the beauty of nature but also challenges conventional notions of perfection in gemstones.

The Ripples set has been recognized for its outstanding design and creativity, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category in 2022. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that demonstrate technical and creative excellence, contributing to improvements in quality of life and making a positive impact on the world.