Swarovski and Central Saint Martins Announce the Winner Of The 2017 Jewelry

Kristina Ferenchuk has won the Swarovski and Central Saint Martins Jewelry Design project. Now in its 16th year, the project challenges CSM 3rd year BA Jewelry Design students to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation with crystal in jewelry design.

From an initial 38 applications, ten students were shortlisted and supported by Swarovski to realize their concepts, working to the thematic brief of ‘Vanishing Worlds’.

Caroline Broadhead, Program Leader and Course Leader, BA Jewelry Design, CSM, commented: “Vanishing Worlds is a welcome theme as it makes people think broadly. This year's project highlights an array of interpretations, from vanishing ecosystems to the vanishing custom tailor, and it fits into an increasing need and drive towards an awareness of sustainability and responsible practice.”

The importance of sustainability and responsible practice is underlined by the use of crystal and gemstones from Swarovski’s upcycling program which seeks to repurpose unused products into new materials.

Kristina Ferenchuk was awarded for her piece, which explores how human activity has contributed to vanishing ecosystems in the last decade. The Swarovski embellished concertina necklace represents the interconnection and symmetrical balance of the different organisms within nature.

Kristina Ferenchuk commented: “It has been an incredible experience to be able to work with Swarovski on this project. Using upcycled crystal has taught me how to be more aware of the materials that are used in jewelry design and how to make a piece within the constraints of the available materials.”