How many ways can one reinvent crystal? According to Swarovski – many. For 120 years, the Austrian label has dreamt up gardens of precious blooms and charming critters, recalled the decadence of ’20s Art Deco and transported its fans into imaginary fairy-tale worlds. In fact, Swarovski provided stones that decorated costumes, jewelry, hair and make-up in the 2015 flick Cinderella. Even the character’s iconic slipper was carved out of a solid crystal from the brand.

Swarovski’s popular Stardust and Slake bracelets make a comeback in new guises this Spring/Summer ’16; Eminence rhodium-plated ring with crystals; Swarovski’s popular Stardust and Slake bracelets make a comeback in new guises this Spring/Summer ’16

Swarovski’s Spring/Summer ’16 collection entitled Sea of Sparkle is also a reinvention of sorts. Each piece is highly stylised and different one from the other, yet the collection comes together in a harmonious depiction of an underwater kingdom, something creative director Nathalie Colin explored for the brand’s latest and most audacious showcase yet. Its energy is palpable, not only in the elaborate bib necklaces, drop earrings and supersized cocktail rings designed after corals, shellfish and seahorses, but in colors that bring to mind the earth’s oceans and seas at various times of day.

Intensely colored crystals in Swarovski’s Sea of Sparkle collection are hand-set using the brand’s patented Pontiage technique, that does away with glue and prongs — Eminence rhodium-plated necklace with crystals; Eglantine rhodium-plated ear cuff with crystals; Efflorescence rhodium-plated necklace with crystals

Though big on individual appeal, pieces from the collection are meant to be mixed and matched. “My preference this season is to combine a bold ring with a fine crystal pavé band for a cool contrast, or to wear several rings that perfectly match the stunning colors of a necklace,” shares Colin. “As we are celebrating the beauty of nature, each piece offers a sophisticated and feminine elegance that is perfect for almost any occasion.”

Eglantine rhodium-plated earrings with crystals; Eminence rhodium-plated earrings with crystals; Eminence rhodium-plated earrings with crystals

Story Credits

Text by Kenny Loh

This story first appeared in L’Officiel Singapore.