In the world of jewelry design, innovation and personalization are key. Maria Afanasyeva, a renowned designer, has taken these concepts to a whole new level with her latest collection, "My Beautiful Inner World." This collection of necklaces showcases the beauty of our hidden inner selves, specifically our cranial bones, while incorporating elements of nature.
The inspiration behind this collection stems from the belief that our true identity lies beneath the surface. Afanasyeva explains, "We believe that we know how we look like, but inside we hide something that also has an individual identity. Our bones. Our hidden beautiful inner world." To visually represent this concept, the necklaces feature delicate flower shoots emerging through the bones and teeth, symbolizing the triumph of nature and the plant world.
What sets this collection apart is the use of cutting-edge technology. Afanasyeva utilized 3D scanning and modeling techniques commonly used in modern orthodontics to create the jewelry. The collection is based on 3D models of the designer's own cranial bones, reflecting the global trend of individualization and customization. Each necklace brings a part of the author's or customer's scanned bones, representing their personal "inner world."
The realization of these designs involves a combination of 3D printing and traditional jewelry-making techniques. The layouts of the bones are printed on a 3D printer using polyamide, maintaining the original scale. The flower arrays are also created in 3D and cast in aluminum, which is then anodized to give the metal a vibrant color. The collection consists of three necklaces, each representing a different part of the skull: the upper jaw, lower jaw, and the third cervical vertebra.
One of the strengths of this collection is its lightweight and comfortable design. The use of non-traditional materials such as aluminum and polyamide allows for large and almost weightless pieces. The necklaces are accompanied by a white leather cord and a magnet clasp, making them easy to wear and use.
By wearing these necklaces, individuals showcase their courage and interest in both fashion and scientific innovation. These pieces serve as conversation starters, inviting deep philosophical discussions about personal identity and the relationship between nature and humanity.
The "My Beautiful Inner World" collection was created in Moscow, Russia, starting in October 2018. It represents a fusion of art, science, and design, pushing the boundaries of contemporary jewelry. The use of medical innovations and 3D technology in combination with the beauty of nature creates a truly unique and thought-provoking collection.
Afanasyeva's innovative approach has not gone unnoticed. The "My Beautiful Inner World" collection was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category in 2019. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills while contributing to quality of life improvements.
With "My Beautiful Inner World," Maria Afanasyeva has created a jewelry collection that goes beyond aesthetics. It challenges our perception of personal identity and the beauty that lies within each of us. Through the fusion of technology, nature, and personalization, this collection represents a new era in contemporary jewelry design.
Project Designers: Maria Lykova
Image Credits: Image #1, #2, #3: Photographer Natalia Bergova, 2019.
Image #4, #5: Photographer Natalia Bergova / model Maria Afanasyeva / style Alexandra Kortushova / MUAH Alexandra Suraeva, 2019.
Project Team Members: Maria Afanasyeva
Medical computing: Dr. Alexander Plaksin
Project Name: My Beautiful Inner World
Project Client: Maria Lykova