Roman Zavolunov Receives the Bronze A' Design Award for 18K Gold Eyewear in Eyewear Design

The Work

Project

18K Gold Eyewear

Function

Eyewear

Category

Eyewear Design

Discipline

Design Strategy

Industry

Fashion

Colors

Black, Light Steel Blue, Dim Gray, Dark Slate Gray and Gray

Images

5

Client

Romano Rozay

The Recognition

Laureate

Roman Zavolunov

Country

United States of America

Recognition

Bronze A' Design Award

Edition

2025 - 2026

Design ID

#178096

Credits

Image Credits

All images and videos: Roman Zavolunov (Romano Rozay), 2016–2025. All design, product and visual materials are original and fully owned by the author.

Design Details

Unique Properties

This one of a kind 18K rose and white gold eyewear is entirely handcrafted in the USA by a master goldsmith using refined traditional techniques. Conceived as wearable sculpture, the design merges fine jewelry aesthetics with structural precision and balance. Flowing lines follow the natural contours of the face, creating a harmonious and elegant silhouette. Every component is individually shaped, assembled, and finished by hand, reflecting uncompromising craftsmanship and artistic integrity. The result is a unique, timeless creation that embodies enduring luxury and cannot be replicate

Inspiration

Inspired by classical jewelry forms and traditional goldsmithing techniques, reimagined as wearable sculpture. The design draws from the language of fine jewelry; its balance, symmetry, and respect for the human form, translating these principles into eyewear crafted entirely from precious metal. Flowing lines and seamless transitions follow the natural contours of the face, harmonizing strength with delicacy through purity of form and precision craftsmanship

Research

The project was developed and handcrafted around 2016 in New York City, USA. The design and production were carried out after working hours in a professional jewelry workshop at Greenwich St. Jewelers. Custom-made tools and specialized jigs were created for specific production processes. All stages, including concept development, metalwork, assembly, setting, and finishing, were performed manually by the designer using traditional goldsmith techniques and professional workshop equipment

Challenge

This project was developed through practice based design research focused on creating fully handcrafted luxury eyewear. The objective was to combine structural durability, ergonomic comfort, and aesthetic excellence. The methodology included prototyping, material testing, custom tool development, and repeated manual adjustments. Data was collected through physical testing, wear trials, and long term use evaluation. The result is a unique, reliable, and refined product integrating engineering precision with traditional goldsmith craftsmanship

Realization and Technology

Fully handcrafted in a specialized USA atelier. Process includes melting and alloying 18K rose and white gold, precision micro soldering of components, pave diamond setting, hand polishing, engraving, and final assembly with custom screw and bolt system. White spring gold elements are incorporated in temples and connections for enhanced resilience and flexibility. Each step is performed manually, without CNC machines or mass production techniques. One of a kind production, non reproducible

Operation and Interaction

The eyewear is designed for intuitive and effortless use. The frame fits naturally to the face, providing balanced weight distribution and long term comfort. The hinges operate smoothly and precisely, ensuring stable opening and closing. Lenses can be replaced by a professional optician when required. The included handcrafted 18K gold tool allows safe and accurate adjustment of screws and components. Every interaction, from wearing to maintenance, reflects precision craftsmanship, durability, and refined functionality

Project Duration and Location

The project was developed and handcrafted around 2016 in New York City, USA. The design and production were carried out after working hours in a professional jewelry workshop at Greenwich St. Jewelers. Custom made tools and specialized jigs were created for specific production processes. All stages, including concept development, metalwork, assembly, setting, and finishing, were performed manually by the designer using traditional goldsmith techniques and professional workshop equipment.

Specifications

Handcrafted full frame eyewear in 18K rose and 18K white gold with pave diamonds total 1.26 ct. Dimensions are 54 x 16 x 143 mm. Weight without lenses 33.4 g. Features a custom screw and bolt adjustment system with dual purpose solid 18K gold key for lens replacement, alignment, and maintenance. One side is designed for micro screws, the other for structural bolts, enabling precise adjustments without external tools. Includes wooden presentation box, leather case, leather pouch for the gold key, certificate of authenticity, warranty card, care instructions and cleaning cloth.

Keywords

Handcrafted eyewear, 18K gold frames, luxury eyewear, bespoke sunglasses, fine jewelry craftsmanship, one-of-a-kind design, diamond setting eyewear, artisan made glasses, Romano Rozay