The best of IJL: Yuki Mitsuyasu

Yuki Mitsuyasu's debut at IJL in 2008 totally blew us away. Her simple, delicate pieces (a style that rarely tends to blow us away, to be honest) had something different. And we weren't the only ones who thought so, as she promptly won the Best New Product award for her Shine collection...


Her simple, graphic aesthetic is hugely wearable - but it's the detail and interactive nature of her style that really make them stand out. The (award-winning) Shine collection takes a classic star motif, made from two separate hearts, and adds a playful yet functional detail; making the clasp the focus - and success - of the piece.


Innovative and beautifully crafted (with crazy precision) - all of Yuki's pieces have been carefully considered from every perspective - form, function, detail and finish are all perfectly executed.


Yuki says of her new collection; entitled 'Bonding' (above and below):

"Making full use of the form of ball chain, the Bonding collection emphasizes simplicity. However, to look beautiful, a simple piece of jewellery must also have balance. That is why the chain on each of these pieces can be cut into any length to suit any individual, or more than one piece can be joined together. This way, the piece and the wearer achieve perfect balance."


The simple and the fun, interactive nature of Yuki's designs makes us really want to know what she's going to do next. It's rare that a designer with such considered approach to the functionality of her jewellery manages to produce pieces that we really want to wear - her work could sit as easily in a jewellery gallery as in a boutique.

We can't decide whether to wear them or hang them in our hallway...

Yuki's work retails at Sweet Pea in London and Baroque Bespoke Jewellery in Brighton, or contact the designer directly through her website at www.mitzyas.com.

All images copyright Yuki Mitsuyasu 2009.