In recent years, there has been a marked departure from the polished gold finish, according to the Trend Report released by the World Gold Council (WGC).
Designers and artisans have become more daring and started to develop new textures that further demonstrate the versatility of the yellow metal. Contemporary jewels benefit from the juxtaposition of a wide variety of finishes which only reinforces the multidimensionality of its materials, it said.
“The interplay of different textures in gold jewellery demonstrates the vast potential of the yellow metal as a creative medium. While gold is traditionally valued for its soft glow, its other properties deserve equal attention,' explained Lama Al Saheb, PR and project manager of WGC.
'For instance, it is highly versatile and can look hard or soft, even fluid, depending on the finish. Goldsmiths have developed sophisticated methods in controlling the amount of light reflected by the yellow metal, allowing a particular piece to project a dramatic look that can rarely be achieved using other materials.'
Notable among new textures developed by international design houses is the satin finish. The stunning effect is achieved by using delicate brushstrokes that leaves soft imprints on gold, creating a fabric-like surface.
In addition to caratage and colour, gold finish can affect the overall style and feel of a particular item of jewellery. The new focus is on highly textured finishes: silky, ribbed, plaited, pierced and woven, or on the dreamy satin sheen and frosts of the 70s style.
New designs are exemplified by raw, hammered finish, evoking handmade craftsmanship and an organic feeling that echoes ethnic themes but with contemporary flair.
“Gold jewellery design has been seeing a lot of transformation in recent years. Gold finish and textures redefine the way we look at and appreciate gold as personal adornment. The possibilities are endless and I strongly believe this emerging trend will dominate the realm of jewellery in years to come,” Al Saheb concluded.-TradeArabia News Service