Natural Wonders

A stunning debut at Masterpiece London, on the back of lauded appearances at Haute Couture Week and the Antiques Biennale in Paris, has cemented Cindy Chao’s leap from Asian star to global player in the world of exquisite art jewellery. Melissa Twigg reports

- Melissa Twigg

The European summer is filled with high glitz and glamour. But away from the super yachts of St Tropez and the scarlet sun umbrellas of Portofino, it is the jewellery fairs and fashion shows of July and August that really dazzle. And Cindy Chao has, unsurprisingly, taken Europe by storm with her exquisite diamond and emerald-filled Black Label collection.

First in the jewellery season came Masterpiece London, which ran from late June to early July. It was set in a vast marquee on the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, one of the most beautiful buildings in west London and the home of the iconic Chelsea Pensioners.

“I was thrilled to unveil my 2018 Black Label Masterpieces at my brand’s debut at Masterpiece London,” says Chao. “Inspired by one of my trips to British Columbia, Canada, last year, where I was fully immersed in nature’s endless wonder, the new collection will allow collectors and connoisseurs to experience the world through my eyes.”

What is particularly noticeable about the Masterpiece fair is the seamless way it bridges the gap between art, jewellery and fashion. And, as ever, this year it showcased a few extraordinary pieces of jewellery that drew gasps from the well-heeled crowd—none more so than Cindy Chao’s ruby Peony brooch, which was awarded the prize of Outstanding Object by the Masterpiece awards committee.