MIKIMOTO - The Layers of Light

This thermal process involves heating metal in order to soften it. By first annealing the metal, subsequent tasks such as filing and shaping the ring to the correct size become more precise and fluid.

This is the process of refining and smoothing the metal surface. In what appears to be a quiet, rhythmic task, the craftsperson relies on tactile sensation and sound to detect the material’s subtle nuances.

For this ring, a platinum plate was meticulously hand-cut with a fret saw to form the intricate outline of Yuta Jinguji’s initials. Herein, we see that cutting along the precise edge of the line ensures a finish of exceptional beauty.

This involves the process of artfully setting gemstones into the finely-crafted metalwork. Even today, stone setting remains one of the most sophisticated tasks in existence. It is an art that relies greatly on human skill, which cannot be replicated by machines. This is a demanding process, therefore, that requires a high level of both expertise and experience. The stone setting method is selected in order to best enhance the material’s allure, since this technique will dictate how the jewellery sparkles. This piece features pavé, prong, and bezel settings.

This is the final step in the creation process. Once the jewellery is polished to a brilliant lustre, the pearls are set with meticulous care to ensure perfect balance and harmony.