Since sculpture and jewelry are very similar arts in their essence, it is quite logical that they intersect and are inspired by each other. The experts of the online jewelry store Delagem.com have prepared for us their top pieces of jewelry and sculptural art.
- The “Jean Arp” collection by Georg Jensen
In 2012, Danish jewelry brand Georg Jensen released a collection inspired by the abstract sculptures of Jean Arp, a German-French artist known for his biomorphic forms. The collection features pieces in sterling silver and 18k gold, with fluid lines and organic shapes reminiscent of Arp’s sculptures. One standout piece is the “Arp Cuff,” a silver cuff bracelet with a sculptural shape that wraps around the wrist.
- The “Flora” pearl earrings by Ana Khouri
Brazilian jewelry designer Ana Khouri created a pair of pearl earrings in 2019 inspired by the sculptures of French artist Jean Arp. The “Flora” earrings feature organic shapes in gold and white pearls, with a sense of movement and fluidity that evokes Arp’s biomorphic forms. The earrings are part of Khouri’s larger “Flora” collection, which explores the relationship between nature and sculpture.
By the way, on Delagem.com you will find a decent collection of pearl earrings (and much more affordable, too).
- The “Goddess” necklace by Cindy Chao
Taiwanese jewelry designer Cindy Chao is known for her elaborate and sculptural pieces, often inspired by nature and art history. In 2018, she unveiled the “Goddess” necklace, a stunning piece featuring a 104.03-carat yellow diamond set in a sculpted gold and titanium frame. The design is inspired by the goddesses of ancient Greek mythology, and the necklace resembles a flowing gown or robe. Chao’s use of gold and titanium creates a sense of movement and fluidity, much like the draped garments of classical sculptures.
- The “Boucheron Pearl and Diamond Necklace”
In 2017, a pearl and diamond necklace by French jewelry brand Boucheron sold for over $600,000 at auction. The necklace features a large, baroque pearl at its center, with a sculptural diamond and gold setting that resembles a blooming flower. The design is inspired by the art of the Rococo period, known for its ornate and whimsical sculptures and architecture. Similar pearl necklaces are represented by Delagem.com.
- The “Panthére de Cartier” collection
As mentioned earlier, the iconic Panthére bracelet was inspired by the sculpted panthers that were popular in Art Deco design. Cartier has since expanded the Panthére collection to include rings, necklaces, earrings, and watches, all featuring the panther motif. The pieces are made of gold or platinum, with diamonds, emeralds, and onyx accents. The Panthére de Cartier collection embodies the sleek and powerful aesthetic of Art Deco sculpture.
- The “David Yurman Venetian Quatrefoil” collection
David Yurman is a jewelry brand known for its use of natural materials and sculptural designs. The Venetian Quatrefoil collection features pieces inspired by the ornate architecture of Venice, particularly the quatrefoil shape seen in many Gothic and Renaissance buildings. The pieces are made of sterling silver or 18k gold, with gemstones such as citrine, peridot, and amethyst. The intricate, interlocking shapes of the collection evoke the intricate details of Gothic sculptures and architecture.
- The “Métiers d’Art Hommage à l’Art de la Danse” watch by Vacheron Constantin
Swiss watchmaker Vacheron Constantin created a stunning timepiece in 2014 inspired by the art of dance. The Métiers d’Art Hommage à l’Art de la Danse watch features a series of sculpted gold dancers in various poses, set against a background of enamel and diamonds. The design is inspired by the ballets of Edgar Degas, known for his sculptures and paintings of dancers. The watch combines the precision and elegance of watchmaking with the fluidity and movement of dance sculptures. The watch sold for over $100,000 at auction.
- The “Pharaohs” collection by Bulgari
In 2019, Italian jewelry brand Bulgari released a collection inspired by the art and architecture of ancient Egypt. The collection features pieces in gold, lapis lazuli, and malachite, with sculptural shapes inspired by Egyptian gods, pharaohs, and hieroglyphics. The “Pharaohs” necklace, for example, features a gold pendant in the shape of a falcon, a symbol of the god Horus, with inlaid lapis lazuli and diamonds.
- The “Calder” collection by John Hardy
In 2017, jewelry brand John Hardy released a collection inspired by the wire sculptures of American artist Alexander Calder. The collection features pieces in silver and gold, with fluid lines and abstract shapes that resemble Calder’s playful and whimsical sculptures. The “Calder” earrings, for example, feature delicate wirework that creates the illusion of movement and balance.
- The “Artemis” collection by Lydia Courteille
French jewelry designer Lydia Courteille created a collection in 2018 inspired by the goddess Artemis, known in Greek mythology as the goddess of the hunt and wilderness. The collection features pieces in gold and silver, with sculptural shapes and gemstone accents that evoke the natural world. The “Artemis” necklace, for example, features a sculpted gold pendant in the shape of a stag’s head, with diamonds and sapphires for eyes.
- The “Buddha” necklace by Cartier
In 2015, Cartier released a stunning necklace inspired by the art and iconography of Buddhism. The “Buddha” necklace features a large, carved emerald in the shape of the Buddha, surrounded by smaller emeralds and diamonds. The design is inspired by the statues of the Buddha found throughout Asia, which often feature intricate carvings and precious materials.