In the realm of jewelry design, Bowie Wong's Dhvaja stands out as a masterpiece that marries cultural depth with contemporary elegance. The necklace draws its inspiration from the dhvaja, one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism, representing victory over obstacles. This emblem of triumph is reimagined through a lens of modern design, resulting in a piece that is not only a fashion statement but also a personal repository for significant mementos.
The Dhvaja necklace distinguishes itself through its dual functionality. It is not just a piece of jewelry but also a waterproof container, ingeniously designed to safeguard precious keepsakes such as a child's first lock of hair or sacred texts. The sleek aesthetics of the necklace are achieved through meticulous mirror polishing and beaded edge craftsmanship, using 18k gold to create a luxurious yet understated appearance.
With dimensions measuring 27.4mm in height and 8.2mm in width, and weighing a mere 6 grams, the Dhvaja necklace is a testament to the precision and expertise of Bowie Wong's design team. The necklace's operational simplicity belies its sophisticated design; a gentle rotation of the dhvaja element allows access to the container, ensuring both ease of use and the security of the contents.
The creation of Dhvaja was not without its challenges. The designer was tasked with capturing the essence of the dhvaja symbol in a minimalist form, a process that required a delicate balance between preserving its cultural significance and embracing a modern aesthetic. The result is a piece that not only reflects the victory and power symbolized by the dhvaja but also embodies the aspirations for a bright future where all good wishes lead to triumph.
From its conceptualization in March 2018 to its completion in July 2018, the Dhvaja necklace has been a journey of exploration and innovation. The design process involved extensive research into Buddhist culture and the significance of auspicious symbols, as well as the development of new methods for preserving personal memorabilia. The outcome is a design that resonates with both cultural reverence and contemporary relevance.
Bowie Wong's Dhvaja has been recognized with the prestigious Iron A' Jewelry Design Award in 2024, a testament to its well-executed design, practicality, and innovative spirit. This award celebrates creations that not only meet professional standards but also contribute to a better world through their design excellence. Patent No. ZL2021 30721981.X protects this unique design, ensuring that the Dhvaja necklace remains an exclusive piece of wearable art that carries both personal significance and a message of hope and victory.
Project Designers: Bowie Wong
Image Credits: Photo and video credits@Bowie Wong
Project Team Members: Bowie Wong
Project Name: Dhvaja
Project Client: Bowie Wong