Tonos: A Fusion of Gold and Concrete in Jewelry Design

Elena Kapompasopoulou's Award-Winning Ring Challenges Material Boundaries

The inspiration for Tonos, a limited edition handmade ring, comes from the Greek punctuation mark that specifies the stress given to a syllabus of a word for its correct pronunciation. Kapompasopoulou has cleverly used this concept to emphasize the transition between the gold and concrete elements of the ring. The projected segment of the gold core balances the two sides of the object, creating a striking visual contrast.

Creating Tonos was no easy feat. The design process involved a seven-step procedure that included 2D and 3D design, digital testing, 3D printing, silicon mold casting, metalwork, concrete casting, and finally, sanding and polishing. The result is a ring that is not only visually stunning but also comfortable to wear.

The ring's unique properties lie in its material composition. The main component is concrete, a material often considered cold and unfriendly. However, Kapompasopoulou's design challenges this perception, presenting concrete as a material that can be both elegant and wearable. The 14K gold core of the ring serves as reinforcement and adds a touch of luxury to the piece.

Tonos was conceptualized and developed in New York between December 2015 and April 2016. The design was exhibited at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York as part of the Loot: MAD About Jewelry exhibition. The ring is available in silver, plated gold, and three different cement colors: grey, pink, and blue.

For her innovative design, Elena Kapompasopoulou was awarded the Silver A' Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design Award in 2018. The award recognizes top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. Tonos is indeed a remarkable piece, showcasing the designer's ability to challenge conventional material use and create a product that is both unique and stylish.

With Tonos, Kapompasopoulou has successfully disrupted the conventional bond between cement and architecture, introducing it to the world of jewelry in a fresh and exciting way. Her design is a reminder of the endless possibilities that exist when creativity and innovation are at the forefront.