What sets the Treasure Jewelry apart is its unique construction, which offers unparalleled flexibility and adaptability. By bending, curving, twisting, or stretching the necklace, its surface can be transformed from flat to rolled, allowing wearers to customize its look and purpose. The addition of two silver hangers at the edges even enables the necklace to be transformed into a stylish bag. Moreover, the high-clearance transparency of the glass tubes used in the design allows the jewelry to double as a lampshade, illuminating interiors with its mesmerizing lighting reflections.
The realization of the Treasure Jewelry involves a meticulous manual process. Each element is carefully combined using the designer's own technology concept. Glass tubes are melted on a torch, and inside each tube, glass rods covered in 23-carat gold leaf are placed. The tubes are then sealed from both ends, and pairs of two welded silver rings are used to join them together.
With dimensions of 70cm in length and 24cm in width at its furthest point, the Treasure Jewelry is a true statement piece. The glass tubes have a diameter of 0.4cm, adding to the necklace's delicate yet captivating aesthetic.
What makes the Treasure Jewelry truly remarkable is its versatility. Its flexible construction allows wearers to adjust it to their desired look and purpose, whether they prefer a long chain necklace, a tight rolled collar, a fashionable bag, or even a unique lampshade. The possibilities are endless, and each individual can create their own best piece by holding, transforming, rolling, and stretching the jewelry.
The journey of the Treasure Jewelry began in 2010 in Wroclaw, Poland, where the initial idea for the necklaces took shape. It took four years of continuous improvement and refinement to bring the project to fruition. Along the way, the design was showcased at exhibitions in the Contemporary Polish art glass castle Cannenburch in Vaassen, Netherlands in 2013, and at Galleri Hantverket in Stockholm, Sweden in 2014.
The creation of the Treasure Jewelry involved extensive research and experimentation. The designer explored various types of gold leaf to find one that would be highly temperature resistant and developed the best gilding method. Once the jewelry was completed, observing people's interaction with it provided valuable insights and feedback, allowing for further refinements.
The design process of the Treasure Jewelry was not without its challenges. Ensuring that all materials used were resistant to high temperatures was crucial, as the glass elements had to withstand the sealing process without burning or changing their state. Additionally, achieving a mobile construction that could be transformed into different shapes required precise welding of the silver elements and correct mounting of the glass tubes.
The Treasure Jewelry has been recognized for its exceptional design and innovation. It was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category in 2015. This prestigious accolade is a testament to the jewelry's outstanding expertise, remarkable level of excellence, and its ability to evoke positive emotions, amazement, and wonder.
The Treasure Jewelry is a testament to the boundless possibilities of design. By breaking free from the confines of traditional jewelry, Marcin Litwa has created a truly unique and multifunctional piece that allows individuals to express their own creativity and style.
Project Designers: Marcin Litwa
Image Credits: Marcin Litwa
Project Team Members: Marcin Litwa
Project Name: Treasure
Project Client: Marcin Litwa