Interview about Mandarinfish Pendant, winner of the A' Jewelry Design Award 2025
The Mandarinfish pendant is a unisex 18k gold pendant and is inspired by Mandarin fish that is a symbol of harmony and happiness in various cultures, also represents unity and deep bonds. The Mandarinfish pendant visualizes the essence of the mandarin fish's colorful body, Using different shades and different colors of Sapphire, Emerald and Diamond as gemstones in the design, is to symbolize vitality, the beauty of natural creatures, and fortune, making the pendant not only a wearable accessory but also a path to connect to aquatic ecosystems.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsThe mandarinfish is renowned for its stunning array of colors and its symbolic connections to marital bliss, joy, togetherness, and lasting relationships. To capture the biological traits of this scaleless species, a refined selection of precious and semi-precious stones—such as sapphires in various cuts (brilliant and marquise), emeralds, and diamonds—has been used to mimic its vivid natural hues, which in the wild function as a warning signal to predators rather than a mating display.
This design can amplify the trend of multifunctional jewelry, and when this idea tempts the designer, it naturally holds appeal for the consumer to benefit from it in accordance with the environment they’re in. On the other hand, depending on the wearer’s clothing style, this capability can eliminate certain limitations, be redefined, and also express the unisex nature of this jewelry piece.
Given that this design is inspired by nature and intended to make a precise, modern reference to the body details and anatomy of the fish, studies were conducted on various species and diverse appearances of this fish, as well as its movement in water, to accurately highlight the inherent beauties of the fish and depict its motion in the best possible way within a static object. Additionally, these studies played a significant role in selecting the colors, types, and shapes of the gemstones.
I studied the mandarinfish’s anatomy, colors, and fluid motion in water. I hand-forged 18k gold with chasing to mimic its scaleless texture. I set sapphires in brilliant and marquise cuts, emeralds, and diamonds using prong and pavé techniques, which are classic craftsmanship methods that provide warmth. I employed 3D modeling for ergonomic curves and spectral analysis to match the biofluorescent hues precisely. Tradition lent the piece soul and an heirloom feel. Modern tools ensured accuracy and lifelike grace in a static form. Nature’s vibrant warning display became timeless art.
Micro-setting dozens of tiny gemstones in the Mandarinfish Pendant was challenging but rewarding. I began with precise 3D modeling to map placements and avoid stress points. Using magnification, I hand-set each sapphire, emerald, and diamond with custom micro-gravers and prong techniques, working in phases and annealing the 18k gold to prevent warping. Organic shapes required tactile alignment and patience—resetting stones if needed. This careful process preserved every anatomical detail, turning complexity into fluid, lifelike elegance.
I translated harmony and happiness through form, color, and motion. The pendant’s fluid, undulating 18k gold silhouette mirrors the mandarinfish’s graceful swim—symbolizing unity in movement. Paired sapphires and emeralds in balanced, rhythmic clusters evoke marital harmony, their cool-warm contrast reflecting emotional balance. Brilliant-cut diamonds add joyful sparkle, like light dancing on water. The scaleless, seamless surface suggests enduring bonds—nothing breaks the flow. Every curve and stone placement follows nature’s rhythm, making abstract joy and togetherness quietly visible.
I started with simple paper sketches—quick lines to catch the fish’s curves and flow. They were rough but full of feeling.Then in MatrixGold, I rebuilt everything carefully, adjusting proportions and light on the stones. I kept going back to the paper to stay true to the original idea.It was just a quiet back-and-forth: hand and heart first, tools second. That balance helped the pendant feel natural and honest.
I hope the pendant quietly reminds people of the mandarinfish’s fragile reef home. Each time someone notices its colors or asks about it, it’s a small chance to share how these tiny, vivid creatures signal a healthy ocean—and why we must protect it.
I drew from the mandarinfish’s natural grace—its fluid forms and vibrant colors aren’t tied to any gender in the wild. I kept the pendant’s lines soft yet bold, with balanced proportions that feel welcoming to anyone. The symbolism of harmony and unity is universal, so I avoided ornate frills, focusing on quiet elegance that lets the wearer define it. It’s just a small way to make beauty inclusive.
I hope it quietly shows that nature’s fragile beauty deserves protection. By letting the mandarinfish’s story live in the piece, it might inspire others to design with care-honest work that honors the ocean and urges us to keep it safe.I also hope it shows that a story from nature can live in jewelry without shouting. By letting the fish’s quiet beauty speak, it might encourage others to weave real meaning into their pieces—simple, honest narratives that touch the heart.
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