Nowadays, renowned auction houses have expanded beyond their traditional offerings.
A high-end jewelry collection at Hong Kong's Sotheby's Maison in Central recently became a highlight of this trend, inspired by a auspicious encounter with Coldplay, whose recent concert sparked much excitement in Hong Kong.
British jeweler Hannah Martin and Coldplay bassist Guy Berryman first crossed paths on a flight from Los Angeles to London.
Guy had been planning a foray into jewelry for his contemporary clothing brand Applied Artforms. He happened to be wearing one of Hannah's early designs, sparking their collaboration.
The A Vanitas jewelry collection – recently launched in the city, coinciding with Coldplay's Hong Kong concert – is available exclusively at Sotheby's Maison.
The collection draws inspiration from the 17th-century Dutch Vanitas tradition, which conveys the impermanence of the world and life's fleeting moments of beauty.
Combining avant-garde elements, Hannah and Guy reinterpreted heritage through a modern style, highlighting the concept of making “the most of every living moment.”
"With a vision to infuse heirlooms with defiance, I aim to craft pieces that are historically rooted yet rebellious – fresh and charged with contemporary spirit," Hannah said.
For this creative venture, their goal was to design pieces not only for adornment but also to spark conversations regarding the beauty of living in the present moment, she added.
The new A Vanitas Stoned capsule collection is prominently decorated by 18-carat yellow gold, as well as meticulously set sapphires that echo Sotheby's signature blue.
Hannah Martin's affinity for gold stems from a desire to rebel against her experience of a non-luxurious upbringing. She thought transforming common objects, such as a razor blade, into pieces crafted from this precious metal was a way to show her rebellious style.
The collection's razor blade motif design showcases a neutral aesthetic, representing the paradox of coexisting strength and vulnerability. It is featured in a signature necklace presented in yellow gold or set with two blue sapphires, which can be worn alone or layered.
One standout piece is the Razor Wristband, inspired by the hospital ID-tag, which symbolizes the circularity of life.
Conversely, the Dog Tag Stud Earring is delicate in comparison. Its sapphire-edged detailing provides a subtle yet sophisticated touch. When paired with the Vanitas Safety Pin Earring – crafted in gold and featuring a pearl – it creates a look of compelling drama and contrast.
The new capsule collection has been put on display this month alongside the original 2023 lineup of yellow gold and pearl pieces that first launched the collaboration.
Helen Zhong and Maisie Lau
