Silver Jewelry Design · 2026
Lily of the Valley Ring
by Yi Xiong
- A' Design Award 2026 Silver Winner in Jewelry Design
- Awarded April 15, 2026
- CLIENT: Aris Fine Studio
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 23,374
- Verification code 9F96645392 · Verify this award
About Lily of the Valley Ring
Lily of the Valley is a ring made of 18K gold, chrysoberyl and pink sapphire. The design is inspired by the symbiotic relationship between lily of the valley and wild strawberry. Layered gold branches form a controlled asymmetrical structure with an open construction. The open form replaces traditional enclosed gemstone settings and gives the ring a sense of lightness. Green and pink gemstones create a color contrast that acts as part of the structure. The open structure also allows the ring to fit a range of finger sizes.
Yi Xiong's Lily of the Valley Ring emerges from the rich tradition of nature-inspired jewelry that traces lineage through Art Nouveau masters and continues to captivate contemporary audiences with its celebration of organic form translated into precious materials. The work demonstrates remarkable technical achievement in its sculptural treatment of gold, where each curving stem, unfurling leaf, and delicate tendril exhibits the careful observation of botanical specimens combined with the interpretive freedom of artistic expression. The central gemstone, presenting a sophisticated emerald cut in verdant chartreuse tones possibly suggesting fine peridot or green tourmaline, anchors the composition with geometric clarity that provides necessary visual rest amid the surrounding organic complexity. Clusters of pink-hued stones, perhaps tourmaline or garnet, introduce chromatic warmth that evokes the nascent stages of floral development, while strategically placed brilliant-cut diamonds contribute light and sparkle suggestive of morning dew. The asymmetrical arrangement refuses static balance in favor of dynamic equilibrium, allowing the eye to travel through the composition discovering new passages of interest with each viewing. Material choices demonstrate understanding of how different precious stones interact: the warm absorbent quality of gold, the internal luminosity of the central green stone, the romantic flush of pink accents, and the spectral brilliance of diamonds work in concert to create visual richness without excess. The presentation photography, positioning the ring amid natural moss and orchid petals, reinforces the work's conceptual foundation in botanical observation while demonstrating how such jewelry might exist in dialogue with the natural world it references. What personal memories or seasonal associations does this celebration of spring's renewal evoke in the viewer's imagination?
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Inspired by the symbiotic relationship between lily of the valley and wild strawberry, this ring translates their organic growth into a controlled asymmetrical structure. Layered gold branches create a fluid spatial hierarchy, while the open construction departs from traditional enclosed gemstone settings.
This ring evokes a subtle sense of suspension, shifting it from mere adornment to an expression of emotion and personal presence, reflecting a balance between softness and structural strength. - Dimensions & Packaging
- Ring size: US 6.25 (inner diameter approx. 16.7 mm)
Center stone: 2.2 ct chrysoberyl
Material: 18K gold, total weight approx. 6 g
Custom sizing available upon request - Tags
- Organic Growth, Symbiotic Relationship, Asymmetrical Structure, Open Construction, Fluidity, Sense of Suspension, Gold Branches, Spatial Hierarchy, Sculptural Metal, Contemporary Femininity
- Production Technology
- Materials: 18K gold, chrysoberyl, and pink sapphire
Craftsmanship: This ring reinterprets botanical jewelry through structural abstraction rather than literal representation. Controlled asymmetry is introduced while maintaining visual balance, with visual weight distributed across an open form to create a sense of suspension. Sculptural metalwork is integrated with precise gemstone setting, while color contrast functions as a structural element rather than decoration. - Design Challenge
- The core challenge lies in achieving both structural stability and visual lightness within an open, asymmetrical form.
Through multiple rounds of structural testing, the support relationships between gold branches and the positioning of the gemstones were refined to ensure stability and durability during wear. The gemstones are integrated into the overall structural system, aligning visual expression with functional integrity and moving beyond the constraints of traditional jewelry construction. - Project Duration
- The project finished in February 2026 in New York.
- Operation Flow
- The open structure accommodates a range of finger sizes, allowing flexibility in wear.
The asymmetrical composition is carefully calibrated to maintain both visual harmony and structural stability.
As the wearer moves, subtle shifts in angle reveal changing spatial relationships, creating a dynamic visual experience.
Layered metal elements reduce visual density while maintaining structural clarity, balancing everyday wearability with artistic expression. - Research
- This design explores how the logic of organic growth can be translated into a controlled asymmetrical structure. Through structural balance and a reconstructed spatial hierarchy, it captures the rhythm and fluidity of nature without directly replicating botanical forms.
The open structure maintains stability while introducing a sense of lightness and freedom, resulting in a dynamic yet restrained composition. It reflects the resilience and strength associated with contemporary femininity. - Inspiration
- Inspired by the symbiotic relationship between lily of the valley and wild strawberry, this ring does not replicate botanical forms directly, but instead translates their underlying growth logic into a dynamic structure.
The contrast between green and pink gemstones reflects the harmony and variation found in nature. An open construction combined with layered elements enhances fluidity and spatial balance, translating natural rhythms into a contemporary jewelry language. - Image Credits
- Aris Xiong (Yi Xiong)
Colors of Lily of the Valley Ring
Design Interview about Lily of the Valley Ring
The core idea behind this design is growth, continuity, and vitality.
Much of my work explores the energy found in nature through upward movement, organic lines, and compositions that feel as though they are still growing beyond their physical form. Rather than creating static jewelry, I aim to create pieces that feel alive.
This design was inspired by the emotional bond between a mother and daughter. Through the symbolism of Lily of the Valley, I explored how personal memories can be translated into contemporary fine jewelry through color, structure, and movement. The contrast between soft pink gemstones and the green-gold chrysoberyl creates a sense of optimism and renewal, while the elongated composition reinforces the idea of life continuously unfolding.
Much of my work explores the energy found in nature through upward movement, organic lines, and compositions that feel as though they are still growing beyond their physical form. Rather than creating static jewelry, I aim to create pieces that feel alive.
This design was inspired by the emotional bond between a mother and daughter. Through the symbolism of Lily of the Valley, I explored how personal memories can be translated into contemporary fine jewelry through color, structure, and movement. The contrast between soft pink gemstones and the green-gold chrysoberyl creates a sense of optimism and renewal, while the elongated composition reinforces the idea of life continuously unfolding.
My goal was to create a piece that feels both emotionally meaningful and visually dynamic.
I wanted to move beyond traditional floral jewelry and explore how botanical elements could become part of a contemporary structure. The design balances softness and strength, femininity and movement.
Through the interaction of color, gemstone selection, and sculptural lines, I hoped to create a piece that feels optimistic, modern, and full of life while carrying a deeply personal narrative.
I wanted to move beyond traditional floral jewelry and explore how botanical elements could become part of a contemporary structure. The design balances softness and strength, femininity and movement.
Through the interaction of color, gemstone selection, and sculptural lines, I hoped to create a piece that feels optimistic, modern, and full of life while carrying a deeply personal narrative.
This design represents an important direction within my creative practice.
I plan to continue exploring themes of growth, memory, femininity, and emotional connection through future collection pieces and bespoke commissions. The project has inspired further research into how natural forms and personal stories can be translated into contemporary heirloom jewelry.
I plan to continue exploring themes of growth, memory, femininity, and emotional connection through future collection pieces and bespoke commissions. The project has inspired further research into how natural forms and personal stories can be translated into contemporary heirloom jewelry.
The project took approximately one month from concept development to final production.
Originally created as a bespoke piece and a gift for the client's mother, the timeline was accelerated compared to many of my other projects. Despite the shorter schedule, the final result maintained the level of craftsmanship, refinement, and emotional expression I envisioned from the beginning.
Originally created as a bespoke piece and a gift for the client's mother, the timeline was accelerated compared to many of my other projects. Despite the shorter schedule, the final result maintained the level of craftsmanship, refinement, and emotional expression I envisioned from the beginning.
This design originated from a bespoke commission inspired by a client's relationship with her mother.
As our conversations developed, I became interested in translating that emotional connection into a contemporary jewelry language. Rather than creating a literal representation, I explored symbolism, color relationships, and botanical forms to express love, growth, and continuity in a timeless way.
As our conversations developed, I became interested in translating that emotional connection into a contemporary jewelry language. Rather than creating a literal representation, I explored symbolism, color relationships, and botanical forms to express love, growth, and continuity in a timeless way.
The design is produced exclusively through ARIS Fine Studio.
As Design Director, I oversee the creative development of each piece from concept and gemstone selection through final production. The design remains part of the studio's evolving body of work and may continue to inspire future bespoke and collection pieces.
As Design Director, I oversee the creative development of each piece from concept and gemstone selection through final production. The design remains part of the studio's evolving body of work and may continue to inspire future bespoke and collection pieces.
I have always been fascinated by the way jewelry can preserve memories and emotional connections.
Unlike many objects, jewelry becomes part of everyday life while carrying personal meaning. This project allowed me to explore how contemporary fine jewelry can communicate emotion through color, form, and craftsmanship rather than words.
Unlike many objects, jewelry becomes part of everyday life while carrying personal meaning. This project allowed me to explore how contemporary fine jewelry can communicate emotion through color, form, and craftsmanship rather than words.
Rather than being influenced by a specific designer, the project was primarily inspired by nature, contemporary sculpture, and botanical structures.
I studied the organic growth patterns of Lily of the Valley, color relationships found in nature, and contemporary jewelry forms that emphasize movement and spatial composition. My background in painting also strongly influences the way I approach color and visual balance.
I studied the organic growth patterns of Lily of the Valley, color relationships found in nature, and contemporary jewelry forms that emphasize movement and spatial composition. My background in painting also strongly influences the way I approach color and visual balance.
The design is intended for individuals who value both emotional meaning and exceptional craftsmanship.
It appeals to collectors of contemporary fine jewelry, clients seeking bespoke heirlooms, and those who wish to commemorate meaningful relationships and milestones through wearable art.
It appeals to collectors of contemporary fine jewelry, clients seeking bespoke heirlooms, and those who wish to commemorate meaningful relationships and milestones through wearable art.
What distinguishes this design is its ability to translate a deeply personal story into a contemporary fine jewelry language rather than relying on literal representation.
The piece combines chrysoberyl, Lily of the Valley, and subtle strawberry-inspired details within an elongated sculptural composition. These elements symbolize connection, growth, and continuity while maintaining a sophisticated and modern aesthetic.
The piece combines chrysoberyl, Lily of the Valley, and subtle strawberry-inspired details within an elongated sculptural composition. These elements symbolize connection, growth, and continuity while maintaining a sophisticated and modern aesthetic.
The name was inspired by Lily of the Valley, the central motif of the design.
I have always been drawn to the flower's elegant upward growth and delicate bell-shaped blooms. Beyond its visual beauty, Lily of the Valley is often associated with renewal, devotion, and the return of happiness.
The flower's natural upward movement became the visual foundation of the entire composition. The name reflects both the botanical inspiration and the emotional narrative embedded within the work.
I have always been drawn to the flower's elegant upward growth and delicate bell-shaped blooms. Beyond its visual beauty, Lily of the Valley is often associated with renewal, devotion, and the return of happiness.
The flower's natural upward movement became the visual foundation of the entire composition. The name reflects both the botanical inspiration and the emotional narrative embedded within the work.
My process always begins by hand.
I spent time sketching different compositions, proportions, and botanical forms on paper, exploring how the flowers, gemstones, and structural elements could interact with one another. This stage is where most of the creative experimentation happens.
Once the overall direction felt right, I moved into digital rendering and CAD development to refine the three-dimensional structure, gemstone placement, and technical details before production.
I spent time sketching different compositions, proportions, and botanical forms on paper, exploring how the flowers, gemstones, and structural elements could interact with one another. This stage is where most of the creative experimentation happens.
Once the overall direction felt right, I moved into digital rendering and CAD development to refine the three-dimensional structure, gemstone placement, and technical details before production.
The most unique aspect is the sense of movement embedded within the composition.
The design extends upward through botanical forms and flowing lines, creating a feeling of growth and vitality. Rather than functioning as decoration alone, the structure itself becomes part of the storytelling.
The design extends upward through botanical forms and flowing lines, creating a feeling of growth and vitality. Rather than functioning as decoration alone, the structure itself becomes part of the storytelling.
I developed the concept, gemstone direction, and overall design language.
I collaborated with CAD specialists and master jewelry craftsmen who assisted in translating the design into a wearable fine jewelry piece while preserving the original artistic vision.
I collaborated with CAD specialists and master jewelry craftsmen who assisted in translating the design into a wearable fine jewelry piece while preserving the original artistic vision.
Technology helped bridge the gap between concept and craftsmanship.
In addition to CAD development, we used advanced three-dimensional rendering technology to create highly realistic visualizations of the final piece. Compared to traditional CAD images, these renderings provide a much more accurate representation of gemstone colors, proportions, lighting, and overall visual impact.
This allowed both the client and the production team to better understand the design before manufacturing and resulted in a smoother development process.
In addition to CAD development, we used advanced three-dimensional rendering technology to create highly realistic visualizations of the final piece. Compared to traditional CAD images, these renderings provide a much more accurate representation of gemstone colors, proportions, lighting, and overall visual impact.
This allowed both the client and the production team to better understand the design before manufacturing and resulted in a smoother development process.
The design was informed primarily by botanical and visual research.
I studied the natural growth patterns of Lily of the Valley, paying particular attention to the way the flowers extend upward and create a sense of movement. I also researched the form of ripening strawberries, especially the moment before the fruit naturally falls from the stem, which became an important reference for several sculptural details within the piece.
Understanding these organic structures helped me translate natural forms into a contemporary jewelry language while preserving their vitality and realism.
I studied the natural growth patterns of Lily of the Valley, paying particular attention to the way the flowers extend upward and create a sense of movement. I also researched the form of ripening strawberries, especially the moment before the fruit naturally falls from the stem, which became an important reference for several sculptural details within the piece.
Understanding these organic structures helped me translate natural forms into a contemporary jewelry language while preserving their vitality and realism.
The biggest challenge was balancing creativity with time.
The client was based in London, while the piece was designed in New York and ultimately needed to be completed and delivered to Beijing within a limited timeframe. Coordinating design, production, and international logistics without compromising craftsmanship required careful planning throughout the process.
From a design perspective, this was also a new direction for me. I wanted to explore a more three-dimensional composition and incorporate strawberry-inspired elements in a way that felt refined and elevated rather than decorative or overly literal. Finding that balance while maintaining the elegance expected of fine jewelry was one of the most rewarding challenges of the project.
The client was based in London, while the piece was designed in New York and ultimately needed to be completed and delivered to Beijing within a limited timeframe. Coordinating design, production, and international logistics without compromising craftsmanship required careful planning throughout the process.
From a design perspective, this was also a new direction for me. I wanted to explore a more three-dimensional composition and incorporate strawberry-inspired elements in a way that felt refined and elevated rather than decorative or overly literal. Finding that balance while maintaining the elegance expected of fine jewelry was one of the most rewarding challenges of the project.
I felt this project represented many of the values that define my design practice: emotional storytelling, craftsmanship, natural inspiration, and contemporary fine jewelry.
The piece demonstrates how personal memories can be transformed into meaningful objects that are both artistic and wearable.
The piece demonstrates how personal memories can be transformed into meaningful objects that are both artistic and wearable.
This project strengthened my understanding of how personal narratives can be translated into contemporary design without relying on literal representation.
It also helped me further develop my signature approach to combining color, movement, natural forms, and emotional storytelling within fine jewelry.
It also helped me further develop my signature approach to combining color, movement, natural forms, and emotional storytelling within fine jewelry.
This design reflects a broader philosophy that guides my work at ARIS Fine Studio.
I believe jewelry has the unique ability to preserve memories, relationships, and milestones across generations. Through natural gemstones, contemporary forms, and meaningful storytelling, I strive to create pieces that function not only as objects of beauty but also as modern heirlooms that carry personal significance through time.
For me, the future of fine jewelry lies in the intersection of craftsmanship, emotion, and contemporary design.
I believe jewelry has the unique ability to preserve memories, relationships, and milestones across generations. Through natural gemstones, contemporary forms, and meaningful storytelling, I strive to create pieces that function not only as objects of beauty but also as modern heirlooms that carry personal significance through time.
For me, the future of fine jewelry lies in the intersection of craftsmanship, emotion, and contemporary design.