The Swarovski Gemstones' Gem Visions report aims to provide insight into the global design trends that are expected to influence the jewellery industry – and consequently end-consumers – in the upcoming year.
In 2016, the over-arching theme is said to have evolved from those of previous years to present Then, Now, Next: A Temporal Fusion – four design directions that link the past to both present and future.
The vision has been described by Swarovski Gemstones as one that encapsulates modernist design aesthetics and remains forward-focused, open to original ideas and technological advances, yet still pays homage to the traditions of the past.
The result is a mix of classic designs combined with innovation and technology. Like earlier editions of the forecast, the company has again developed the report in collaboration with a range of specialists including fashion and trend forecasters, a historian and jewellery industry members.
See below as Jeweller takes a closer look at the four trends set to impact jewellery design in 2016.
Magic
Magic is said to present the jeweller, goldsmith and gemstone-cutter as master magicians who bring gemstones to life through multiple facets, cuts and shapes – all in the aim of creating an illusion.
The trend focuses on the otherworldly, with a colour palette that alternates between light and shadow. Think deep night blue and burgundy hues lightening into light blue, lilac and white.
Blue sapphire, marcasite and white cubic zirconia are combined with reflective materials, mirrored surfaces and iridescent exteriors like mother-of-pearl, opal and laser-sliced stone.
Eternity
Eternity draws on the idea of heritage, the passing down of tradition and the human desire for immortality and immutability.
This trend direction focuses on designs that incorporate icons and signatures within a seemingly lavish colour scheme. Shades like honey, amber and citrine are complemented with deep blue and other intensely dark tones. Meanwhile, brilliant orange, electric blue and striking greens mix with warm, off-whites to provide accents.
Vibrant coloured topaz, citrine, and peridot are mixed with complex and multi-layered materials that combine traditional metalworking techniques with modern technology.
Body Art
The intimate relationship between jewellery and the human form is explored in Body Art, where the body is seen as an installation space for new forms of adornment.
Think hand ornaments, body chains, ear cuffs and headpieces, all in melting shades of pink and burgundy with flashes of amethyst and turquoise.
There is also an emphasis on texture with both organic and man-made materials: animal scales and leather combined with precious metals and synthetic and technologically-enhanced gemstones. Jewellery is cut to the curves and movement of the body, and express fluid, almost liquid forms.
Radical Craft
Radical Craft reflects the modern-day preoccupation with DIY and technology. It focuses on radical design and production as well as engineering-oriented disciplines such as electronics, robotics, 3D printing and the use of CNC tools.
Gemstone cuts are strong and dynamic with defined edges, corners and angles, and comprise types including black spinel, smoky quartz and cubic zirconia in warm tones.
Plastics, presetting elements, synthetic gemstones, treated gemstones, intriguing coatings and plating for metals are incorporated within a masculine colour palette of industrial greys, khakis and soft highlights of vibrant orange and pink.
Plastics, presetting elements, synthetic gemstones, treated gemstones, intriguing coatings and plating for metals are incorporated within a masculine colour palette of industrial greys, khakis and soft highlights of vibrant orange and pink.
Plastics, presetting elements, synthetic gemstones, treated gemstones, intriguing coatings and plating for metals are incorporated within a masculine colour palette of industrial greys, khakis and soft highlights of vibrant orange and pink.
Plastics, presetting elements, synthetic gemstones, treated gemstones, intriguing coatings and plating for metals are incorporated within a masculine colour palette of industrial greys, khakis and soft highlights of vibrant orange and pink.