We love our gemstones, but it’s truly thrilling when a piece of jewelry made solely of metal can possess just as much beauty as one sparkling with diamonds or colored stones. Such is the case with this latest collection of rings by British jeweler Liv Luttrell.
The designer is known for her beautifully sculptural work, though most often we are accustomed to seeing it set in yellow or white gold, usually artfully set with gemstones.
This collection in responsibly sourced silver features four rings—each with a limited availability of 30 pieces—and marks the first time Luttrell has experimented with creating her own wax carvings.
Made in collaboration with her goldsmith, Luttrell took inspiration in the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright, as well as the shapes of African masks.
“The recent lockdown in London has brought its moments of space and time to indulge my love of design, and the joy of researching shapes and patterns of art and sculpture,” said Luttrell in a statement. “Shapes emerge, form, and reform following curves and it is through this process that my latest four rings have evolved. In the ancient process of lost-wax carving the finished form is sent to be cast in the precious metal of choice and in the process, the wax melts away. I love the poetry of creating this way, these most touched and held pieces of jewelry, solid sensuality born of this melting away. A feeling of permanence in this uncertain world perhaps.”
The collection, while it stands on its own, features an aesthetic of note. Akin to some of the best-known works of Elsa Peretti, these sculptural silver motifs should be irresistible to consumers. My colleague Amy Elliott had a very similar thought, and reminded me that this year’s death of Peretti—as well as the designer’s portrayal on Ryan Murphy’s popular Netflix show Halston, where she was played by actress Rebecca Dayan—will no doubt see a rising generation taking note of the legendary jeweler’s works. Pair that with Tiffany & Co.’s new marketing campaign and image, and sterling silver is quite possibly making one of the decade’s biggest comebacks.
The four rings are currently available on livluttrell.com.
Top: Hand-carved Folde ring in responsibly sourced sterling silver, £580 ($450); Liv Luttrell
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