Gaia Collection: A Jewelry Tribute to the Mother Earth

An Art Nouveau-inspired jewelry collection by Chen Lu Cao

Chen Lu Cao, the creative mind behind Gaia Collection, drew inspiration from Greek mythology and the captivating story of Gaia, the mother goddess of Olympus. The myth resonated deeply with Cao, evoking a sense of strength, balance, and chaos. This emotional connection became the driving force behind the creation of Gaia Collection.

What sets Gaia Collection apart is its meticulous attention to detail and the use of gemstones. Each piece is carefully crafted with silver plated 14k rose gold, creating a luxurious and elegant aesthetic. The collection features a variety of round and square elements, reminiscent of the aesthetic theory of Pythagorean. These contrasting shapes symbolize the beauty that can arise from the neutralization of opposing forces.

Gaia Collection consists of two distinct lines. The first line is a high-end Art Nouveau style necklace, designed to be an exhibition piece. Its intricate design and exquisite craftsmanship make it a true work of art. The second line is more versatile and suitable for everyday wear, offering a universal and elegant appeal.

The Gaia Collection project began in January 2018 in Michigan and was completed in May 2018. It will be showcased at Fe Gallery's Art Nouveau exhibition in California in August 2018, allowing art enthusiasts and jewelry lovers to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of this unique collection.

Chen Lu Cao's research for Gaia Collection involved delving into mythology, psychology, and aesthetic books. By immersing herself in these subjects and collecting storyboards, she was able to infuse the designs with a sense of life and meaning.

Creating Gaia Collection presented its fair share of challenges. Inspired by Gaia's character and the Pythagorean aesthetic theory, Cao aimed to capture the essence of opposing forces coming together to create beauty. The use of different symbols, such as round and square elements, helped achieve this contrast and balance within the collection.

Gaia Collection has garnered recognition in the design world, receiving the prestigious Bronze A' Design Award in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category in 2019. This award celebrates designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving the quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.

With Gaia Collection, Chen Lu Cao invites individuals to embrace their inner strength and reconnect with the beauty and power of Mother Earth. Through the use of gemstones and meticulous craftsmanship, this jewelry line serves as a reminder of the strength, balance, and chaos that exist within us and the world around us.