Charmas: Unique Sunglasses Inspired by Ancient Granulation Art

A Modern Take on Etruscan Jewelry

The inspiration for Charmas comes from the archeological passion, particularly the Etruscan period and their exquisite jewelry. The granulation art, which reached its pinnacle between the 8th and 7th century B.C., has been reimagined to create a shape-non shape that celebrates the texture itself. The unique incorporation of diamonds embedded inside microspheres gives the sunglasses a dazzling carpet effect, reminiscent of a "pave" setting.

What sets Charmas apart from other sunglasses is its distinctive texture, reminiscent of the ancient granulation art. The 18Kt white gold structure can be customized to different shapes and dimensions, making each pair truly unique. The sunglasses can also be adorned with different gem colors and quantities, allowing for personalization and individual expression.

The creation process of Charmas involves the use of granulation technique, reproduced through microfusion. A wax model is first created, which is then used to shape the metal structure to fit the lenses. The main materials used are 18Kt white gold, 4.2 carats of diamonds, and polycarbonate lenses. The diamonds are embedded using the griffe technique and the "night" embedding method.

With dimensions of 15 cm in width, 14 cm in length, and 6 cm in height, Charmas offers a comfortable and stylish fit for anyone looking to make a statement. These sunglasses not only protect your eyes but also exude personality and charm.

The Charmas project began in January 2015 and has since been exhibited at the MIDO Fair 2015 in Milan, with collaboration from OMAS Glasses company for the lenses. It has also been showcased at Italo Fontana's U-BOAT company in Basel. Currently, the sunglasses can be found at Isabella's jewelry store in Belluno.

The design process for Charmas involved extensive research to ensure optimal fit and comfort. The team collaborated with glasses design experts and a production company to determine factors such as optical correction, inclination on the face, temple length, frontal opening, and bridge design. Isabella Gabbin's twenty years of experience in jewelry production also played a crucial role in the creation of these unique sunglasses.

Charmas presented a creative and technical challenge for the designer, as it required a transition from traditional goldsmith production to incorporating optical knowledge and understanding the distribution of weight on the face. However, these challenges were overcome, resulting in a stunning and innovative design.

Charmas has been recognized for its excellence and innovation, receiving the Silver A' Design Award in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category in 2016. This prestigious award is a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship and artistic skill showcased in these sunglasses.