Jewelry designers have long been enchanted by the sea. It’s a subject rich in beauty, myth, and romance – all classic elements of fine jewelry.
The famed marine explorer, Jacques Cousteau, perfectly captures the allure of underwater life in his statement: “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.”
This “net of wonder” is vast in size, capturing the artists’ imagination and transforming it into many mediums. Creative inspiration is found across the centuries in various art forms: from Herman Melville’s Moby Dick, to 19th century painter Renoir’s Still Life with Fish, to Pixar’s Finding Nemo.
The name of this diamond, ruby, black diamond and tourmaline piece, “Nemo,” tells the inspiration for jewelry artist Ricardo Basta. Image courtesy of Ricardo Basta.
A few facts help explain why the sea beckons the jewelry designer. Below the surface of the waves lies an underwater kingdom of more than 27,000 different species of fish. They range in size from the massive whale shark, which can grow to 50+ feet; to the tiny Timmatom nanus of the Indo-west Pacific, which is a mere one centimeter. This incredible diversity of life provides an endless source of inspiration.
Courtesy Vartanian & Sons
This sailfish brooch by Tiffany & Co. is made with pavé set diamonds, gold, and platinum. Superb craftsmanship and masterful enameling (notice the blues and greens on the fins and head) make this piece extremely lifelike. Courtesy Vartanian & Sons
Angelfish brooch is made of diamonds, blue sapphires, coral and gold. Image courtesy of Ricardo Basta
Another playful piece from Ricardo Basta, this Angelfish brooch is made of diamonds, blue sapphires, coral and gold. Weaving its way through a coral bed, the little fellow looks like he’s swimming happily through life.
Which of these might you like to reel in for your personal collection?
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