Cindy Chao set to be the only Asian jeweller to display at Masterpiece London

The year 2018 is set to be an exciting one for the namesake founder of Cindy Chao The Art Jewel. The brand is planning a series of events around the globe. Chao will be exhibiting for the first time at premier jewellery fair Masterpiece London from June 28 to July 4, unveiling the newest Black Label Masterpieces and White Label pieces at The Royal Hospital. She will be the only Asian high jeweller present at the event. The new pieces to be showcased were inspired by one of her trips last summer.

1. What is the difference between a beautiful piece of jewellery and an exquisite statement piece?

A jewellery piece can be beautiful in many ways: in general, it may have an eye-pleasing design, a harmonious colour combination, or [it] features gems of good quality. The evaluation may be somewhat subjective. However, to be considered an exquisite statement piece, a jewellery piece must meet some objective criteria, which may include rarely-seen, magnificent gemstones, extraordinary design and exquisite craftsmanship. It has to be uniquely eye-catching and eye-opening to stand out.

2. What is the difference between exquisitely ornate and ostentatious?

To my mind, the difference lies in the designer’s ability to keep the essence and, solely the essence, in his or her work. I always remember one of Michelangelo’s quotes saying that when creating, he is freeing the soul of the marble. “I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free”. This is exactly how I feel now when I wax-sculpt to create an art jewel: by reducing the unnecessary, I search for the true essence, the soul of the piece that is timeless, perpetual, eternal.

3. Can you ‘see’ the piece in your head from the beginning of the design process, or does it come together as you sketch or search for materials?