Daphne: A Multifunctional Brooch and Pendant

Expressing Beauty and Faith through Greek Mythology

The design inspiration for Daphne came from the mythological tale of Daphne, who transformed into a laurel tree to escape the pursuit of Apollo. This story symbolizes beauty and faith in oneself, and it served as the foundation for the design. One of the key design elements is a laurel leaf, set with diamonds, which whirls around the center stone, representing the moment when Daphne turns into a laurel tree.

In Chinese culture, the moon is associated with love. To incorporate this symbolism, the designer integrated a moon element into the design. The combination of the laurel leaf and the moon creates a harmonious and meaningful piece of jewelry.

What sets the Daphne brooch and pendant apart is its multifunctionality. It can be worn as a brooch or a pendant, allowing the wearer to adapt it to different occasions and outfits. The centerpiece of the design is a stunning 10.745ct natural rupee red tourmaline from Brazil, set in 18K white gold. The addition of diamonds and mother-of-pearl adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.

The realization of the Daphne design involves the use of advanced techniques and materials. The brooch is made of 18K white gold, carefully crafted to showcase the intricate details of the laurel leaf and moon elements. The natural rupee red tourmaline is meticulously set to enhance its beauty and brilliance.

The Daphne brooch and pendant measures 34.10mm x 35.10mm x 11.03mm, making it a statement piece that commands attention. Its unique combination of design elements and its multifunctionality make it a versatile accessory that can be cherished for years to come.

Ying Li, the designer behind Daphne, embarked on this project in October 2019 and completed it in January 2020 in Yunnan, China. The design required extensive research and creative problem-solving to effectively convey the story of Daphne to Chinese audiences. By integrating the laurel leaf and moon elements, Ying Li successfully captured the essence of the mythological tale.

The Daphne brooch and pendant has received recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category in 2023. This prestigious award acknowledges the creativity and ingenuity of the design, as well as its contribution to improving the quality of life through art, science, and technology.

With its captivating design and meaningful symbolism, the Daphne brooch and pendant is a testament to Ying Li's talent and artistic vision. It serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the ability of jewelry to convey emotions and narratives.