Bronze Eyewear Design · 2026
18K Gold Eyewear
- A' Design Award 2026 Bronze Winner in Eyewear Design
- Awarded April 15, 2026
- CLIENT: Romano Rozay
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 12,021
- Verification code 9D8B8C1C31 · Verify this award
About 18K Gold Eyewear
Romano Rozay 18k rose and gold eyewear is handcrafted in the USA using traditional goldsmithing techniques. The design integrates jewelry making processes with structural engineering to define geometry aligned with facial structure an provide stability in wear. Each component is individually shaped, assembled, and finished by hand. The overall system is defined by material behavior, fabrication precision and structural performance.
Roman Zavolunov's 18K Gold Eyewear situates itself within contemporary luxury accessories design traditions that honor both the heritage of precision metalworking and the evolving aesthetics of minimalist form language, representing a confluence of artisanal jewelry-making techniques and functional eyewear engineering that elevates a utilitarian object into the realm of wearable sculpture. The design demonstrates exceptional compositional intelligence through its geometric purity, employing perfectly proportioned circular lenses that evoke both timeless classical harmony and contemporary minimalist sensibilities, while the double-bridge architecture introduces structural sophistication that appears simultaneously functional and ornamental, each element justified by engineering necessity yet refined to aesthetic perfection. The chromatic achievement centers on the warm, luminous quality of the rose gold or champagne gold finish, a material choice that communicates both precious value and tactile warmth, avoiding the cooler associations of white metals in favor of a hue that complements diverse skin tones and suggests organic luxury rather than austere modernism. Technical facility becomes evident in the flawless surface finish visible across every component, the precise joints where temple arms meet frame front revealing meticulous attention to manufacturing excellence, and the consistent thickness and curvature of metal elements suggesting advanced metalworking processes that achieve jewelry-quality results at eyewear scale. The integration of amber-tinted lenses introduces a layer of functional chromatic sophistication, providing solar protection while maintaining visual connection between wearer and observer, the warm bronze tone harmonizing seamlessly with the golden frame to create unified material poetry. The work engages with long-standing cultural associations between circular forms and concepts of perfection, completeness, and infinity, while the precious metal construction invokes historical traditions of adornment and status signification, yet the overall execution remains refreshingly restrained, avoiding ostentatious embellishment in favor of pure form and honest material expression. One might observe affinities with mid-century modernist design principles that championed essential form, quality materials, and meticulous craftsmanship, while the contemporary execution suggests awareness of current luxury market desires for pieces that function as personal statements of refined taste rather than loud declarations of wealth. The decision to present the eyewear within lived context, worn by a human subject whose serene downward gaze and relaxed posture suggest natural comfort and integration, demonstrates sophisticated understanding of how luxury objects achieve meaning through human relationships, the design becoming fully realized only when activating its intended function of framing and enhancing the human face. The design invites viewers to consider how everyday functional objects can transcend mere utility to become vehicles for aesthetic contemplation, personal expression, and the celebration of exceptional material craft, encouraging reflection on the value systems that elevate certain designs from commodity status to collectible art objects worthy of preservation and appreciation across generations.
Press Kit
- 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
- Dimensions & Packaging
- 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.
- Tags
- 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
- Production 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
- Design 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
- Project Duration
- 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.
- Operation Flow
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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.
Colors of 18K Gold Eyewear
Design Interview about 18K Gold Eyewear
I wanted to combine jewelry craftsmanship and eyewear design in one object. The main goal was to create eyewear that looks a piece of jewelry while remaining functional and comfortable to wear. The inspiration came from traditional handcraft techniques, clean lines and attention to detail. Much of the design evolved directly during the handcrafting process.
The main focus was to create eyewear that combines the aesthetic of fine jewelry with the practicality of everyday use. I wanted to achieve clean proportions, comfort, structural rigidity and a high level of hand craftmanship. Great attention was given to details, construction and the balance between appearance, strength and functionality.
I plan to further develop this eyewear line by creating new models and refining the construction, materials and handcrafted details. I also plan to present the design at international exhibitions and competitions, and in the future produce limited editions and custom orders.
The development of this concept took about a year. During the process, some stages had to be paused in order to find the right solution for specific structural and engineering challenges. A significant amount of time was spent on handcrafting, refining the construction and remaking individual components until the desired level of quality, structural rigidity and overall design balance was achieved.
This design was not commissioned. I decided to independently develop the idea of combining jewelry craftmanship and eyewear design in one object. I was interested in creating not just an accessory, but a functional object with a high level of hand craftmanship, engineering approach, and attention to detail. This approach to fully handcrafted eyewear made from precious metals is extremely rare and i have personally seen very few comparable works.
AT the moment, this design is not being produced by another company. I plan to personally develop and produce this eyewear line under the Romano Rozay brand while maintaining a high level of hand craftsmanship, quality and control over all production details.
I have always been interested in combining jewelry craftsmanship, engineering and functional design. Eyewear seemed like an interesting object where aesthetics, construction and handcraftsmanship could be combined in a single piece. I wanted to create something rare and unusual that goes beyond the ordinary perception of eyewear.
I was not focused on any particular designer or brand. I was more influenced by traditional jewelry craftsmanship techniques, engineering approaches to construction and the handcrafting process itself. Most of the design evolved directly during the working process and through finding my own solutions.
This design is intended for people who appreciate hand craftsmanship, rare object, high quality execution and attention to detail. It is not a mass-market product, but an object for those who see eyewear not only as an accessory, but also as a combination of design, engineering and jewelry craftsmanship.
The main difference of this design is the combination of jewelry craftsmanship, engineering approach and fully handcrafted construction made from precious metals. Great attention was given not only to appearance, but also to comfort, construction, proportions and details. During the development process, some elements were removed, others were added and some parts were remade until the desired level of quality, balance and comfort was achieved.
The name is connected to the Romano Rozay brand under which this collection is being developed. It reflects my personal approach to design, combining hand craftsmanship, individuality and the desire to create rare objects with their own character.
Traditional jewelry tools, hand metalworking techniques, soldering, polishing and various methods of precise fitting were used during the work process. A microscope, laser welding and specialized tools for working with precious metals and small construction details were also used. In some cases, custom tools had to be made depending on the complexity of the connections and construction details.
The most unique aspect of this design is the combination of fully handcrafted jewelry craftsmanship with an engineering approach to eyewear construction. Almost every parts was handmade and precisely fitted with great attention to quality, structural rigidity, lightness, comfort and small details.
The main part of the work, including the design, construction and handcrafting process, was done personally by me. Specialists in their respective fields participated in certain stages such as professional photography and preparation of presentation materials.
Technology was used as a supporting tool to achieve a high level of precision and quality. A microscope, laser welding and precise processing methods helped in working with small details and complex connections while maintaining the main focus on handcrafting and jewelry craftmanship.
The main research was carried out through practical work, observation and the handcrafting process itself. Great attention was given to proportions, comfort, structural strength, component connections and the behavior of materials during production. Many solutions were tested and adjusted directly during the handcrafting process.
One of the main challenges was combining visual lightness with strength, comfort and reliability. A significant amount of time was spent finding the right solutions for connections, proportions and small details. some elements had to be remade several times until the desired level of quality, precision and overall construction balance was achieved.
I decided to submit this work to an international design competition because I wanted to present my approach to handcrafting and design on an international level. It was important for me to show that eyewear can be not only an accessory, but also an object that combines jewelry craftsmanship, engineering approach and handcrafted work.
During the work on this project, i gained an even deeper understanding of the importance of patience, precision and attention to small details. The process helped me improve my engineering approach to construction, material behavior and component connections. I also developed a better understanding of the balance between visual lightness, comfort, strength and the quality of handcrafted execution.
All solutions were also tested in practice, including fitting and testing on my own face to achieve the right comfort, fit and balance. this required a significant amount of time and continuous refinement of details.
Grand Interview about 18K Gold Eyewear
For me, the decision to handcraft every component was never about rejecting modern technologies for the sake of doing so. It was a conscious choice driven by the desire to maintain complete control over every stage of the process and to achieve a true union between fine jewelry craftsmanship and structural engineering. In practice, this meant that every component was created, fitted, inspected, and refined by hand. This approach demanded considerably more time and patience, but it allowed me to make decisions at every stage and achieve exactly the result I believed was right. From the beginning, my goal was not simply to create eyewear made from precious metal. I wanted to create an object in which aesthetics, strength, comfort, durability, and attention to the smallest details exist in balance and function as a unified system. Therefore, I never viewed individual parts as separate elements. Every line, connection, and structural decision was intended to be part of a single composition, where fine jewelry craftsmanship and structural engineering do not compete with one another, but instead complement and strengthen each other. Ultimately, this complete commitment to manual fabrication shaped the identity and integrity of the 18K Gold Eyewear. The result is not merely a pair of gold glasses, but an object in which craftsmanship, functionality, and engineering thinking exist in inseparable unity
I never intended to create a sculpture that would only be admired from a distance, nor did I want to create an ordinary luxury object whose value was defined solely by precious materials. For me, eyewear must first and foremost remain eyewear. For that reason, I deliberately placed functionality, comfort, reliability, and long-term durability on the same level as aesthetics. I have always believed that beauty should not exist separately from purpose. If an object is uncomfortable, unreliable, or not designed for long-term use, then even the most expressive design cannot be considered complete. Therefore, many design decisions were guided not only by appearance, but also by strength, precision, and everyday wearability. My goal was to achieve a balance in which artistic expression and engineering requirements would not compete with one another, but instead work together in harmony. As a result, the 18K Gold Eyewear can certainly be appreciated as a collectible object, but its true purpose is to serve as a fully functional and reliable piece created for the human face. In my view, it is precisely this union of artistry and functionality that gives the object its lasting value.
When creating the 18K Gold Eyewear, I did not simply aim to decorate a conventional pair of glasses with jewelry elements. My goal was to translate the principles of fine jewelry into an entirely different field, where beauty must coexist with mechanical reliability and everyday functionality. In fine jewelry, great importance is placed on proportions, balance, symmetry, and the relationship between an object and the human body. I sought to apply these same principles to eyewear. Particular attention was given to how individual lines interact with one another, how visual weight is distributed, how the structure is perceived on the face, and how all elements come together to form a harmonious whole. Unlike rings, necklaces, or brooches, however, eyewear is subjected to continuous mechanical demands. Therefore, every aesthetic decision also had to satisfy engineering requirements. It was important to me that decorative features would not exist separately from the structure, but instead become an integral part of it. As a result, the principles of classical jewelry craftsmanship were not merely transferred to eyewear, but reinterpreted and adapted in a way that would allow the object to preserve its beauty, structural integrity, and functionality throughout everyday use
Receiving the Bronze A' Design Award was a very meaningful moment for me. I was especially pleased that the jury recognized not only the visual qualities of the work, but also the innovation, ergonomic comfort, material choices, and engineering aspects behind the project. I never intended to create merely an expensive object made of gold or a decorative piece designed only to impress. My goal was to create genuine eyewear in which fine jewelry craftsmanship, structural reliability, comfort, and long-term durability exist in balance. Therefore, it was rewarding to see that these values were appreciated by an international jury. At the same time, any award represents an external perspective, and for me this project remains above all the result of many years of experience, continuous refinement, and a constant pursuit of improvement. I believe that receiving recognition does not mark the end of the journey; rather, it provides additional motivation to continue developing new ideas and pushing my work further. Although the 18K Gold Eyewear received the A' Design Award recognition, the principles behind this project are not limited to a single piece. The same approach to combining fine jewelry craftsmanship, engineering, ergonomics, and durability is present throughout my other designs as well. Each model has its own identity and character, yet all of them are part of the same creative philosophy of Romano Rozay. For me, this award is not so much a confirmation that the work is finished, but rather an affirmation that traditional hand craftsmanship and engineering thinking can still create objects that are both unique and relevant in today's world.
The development of the 18K Gold Eyewear took place under rather unusual circumstances. The project was not created in a large studio or with unlimited resources. At the time, I was working full-time in a professional jewelry workshop in New York, so most of the work on the project was done in the evenings after my regular working hours. Often, I only had an hour and a half to two hours before the workshop closed, which meant that every step had to be carefully planned in advance.Long before I started making the piece, I spent considerable time thinking about where to begin and eventually decided to dedicate myself to something that very few people were doing. As a jeweler who had worked with precious metals for many years, I chose to create eyewear in gold. However, this immediately raised new questions. How could I make the piece visually expressive without making it too heavy? How could I combine beauty, comfort, reliability, and durability? The answers to these questions emerged gradually, one step at a time.Many solutions were born not at the workbench, but in my thoughts. Before going to sleep, I often planned the next day's work in my mind, carefully thinking through each operation and searching for the best possible approach. The value of gold did not allow mistakes to be taken lightly, and countless experiments taught me to respect the behavior of the material. For example, I learned how important it was to preserve the elasticity of the metal and how the choice of solder and temperature control could influence its properties.Because ready-made solutions for such work hardly existed, I often had to create my own tools, fixtures, and working methods. Even the smallest deviation could affect the alignment of the temples, the stability of the eyewear, and the overall harmony of the structure. As a result, many tools and techniques were developed specifically to accomplish particular tasks.As the project evolved, new challenges and new ideas emerged naturally. What began as the creation of a pair of gold eyeglasses gradually expanded into a much broader concept. Questions related to maintenance, presentation, storage, and other details arose along the way, each requiring the same commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Finding artisans capable of producing certain components to the highest standards also required considerable time, effort, and financial investment.Over time, I realized that limitations themselves became one of the sources of creative solutions. Some characteristics of the project might never have emerged in a large production environment or in a conventional design studio. Despite all the challenges, I genuinely enjoyed the process. Seeing individual elements gradually come together to form a harmonious and functional object gave me great satisfaction and inspired me to continue refining the project.Ultimately, the 18K Gold Eyewear became much more than the result of a design idea. It became a reflection of many years of experience, patience, engineering thinking, and a genuine love for hand craftsmanship.
During the development of the 18K Gold Eyewear, I quickly realized that appearance alone could never be the primary criterion. Eyewear must preserve its shape, remain reliable, and withstand everyday use. This led me to pay close attention to the behavior of different gold alloys and to how they responded to repeated heating and soldering operations. Throughout the process, I discovered that conventional gold gradually loses some of its elasticity after numerous manufacturing steps. For me, this was unacceptable because I wanted to achieve not only beauty, but also long-term structural durability. As a result, I experimented with different materials, soldering methods, and solders with various melting temperatures. Over time, I concluded that incorporating white spring gold into specific areas of the construction provided the flexibility and resilience that the design required. This solution was not reached immediately. It emerged through numerous trials, mistakes, and continuous refinements. Some components had to be remade, and some ideas had to be completely reconsidered. My goal was to ensure that the engineering solutions would not interfere with the aesthetics, but instead become a natural part of the overall design language. In the end, the use of white spring gold allowed me to achieve the balance I had pursued from the beginning: strength, flexibility, durability, and visual harmony. For me, engineering and artistry have never been separate disciplines. I have always believed that true beauty should be supported by a reliable structure.
For me, it was important that the 18K Gold Eyewear would not end with the eyewear itself. I wanted to create an object with which the owner could develop a special relationship. That is why I designed a dual-purpose handcrafted 18K gold key. Its purpose goes beyond adjusting screws and replacing lenses. It symbolizes the ability to care for the piece and preserve it over many years. I have always appreciated the idea that truly valuable objects should not simply remain in a display case, but should live alongside the person who owns them. In the past, fine watches, musical instruments, and precious objects were maintained, repaired, and passed down from one generation to another. This philosophy has always been very close to me. I never viewed the eyewear as a disposable fashion accessory. My intention was to create an object that could be maintained, cared for, and preserved in its original condition. For that reason, the gold key became a natural extension of the overall philosophy behind the project. It transforms the owner from merely a customer into a participant in the life of the object and helps ensure that it can be appreciated far into the future. To me, true luxury is defined not only by rare materials, but also by longevity, serviceability, and the emotional connection that develops between a person and the objects they cherish. That is why even a small element such as the handcrafted key became an essential part of the identity of the 18K Gold Eyewear
I never intended to create objects that would remain relevant for only a season or a few years. From the very beginning, my goal was to create something capable of preserving both its value and meaning for decades. For that reason, I viewed the 18K Gold Eyewear not as a fashion accessory, but as a complete collectible work in which every detail has a purpose. Over time, an entire ecosystem gradually formed around the eyewear itself. A handcrafted 18K gold key, a wooden presentation box, a leather pouch, a passport booklet, and a certificate all became part of the project. These elements emerged naturally over time and required extensive effort to find skilled artisans capable of producing them to the highest standards. It demanded considerable time, resources, and dedication, but I believed it was important that every element reflect the same philosophy and level of craftsmanship. I have always been inspired by the idea that truly valuable objects should endure rather than follow short-term trends. Throughout history, works of art, fine watches, musical instruments, and jewelry have been preserved and passed down from generation to generation. I wanted to create something that could likewise retain its individuality and value over time. Although each model possesses its own design, all of my creations are guided by the same principles: the union of artistic expression, engineering thinking, comfort, reliability, and hand craftsmanship. To me, true luxury is not defined by the constant pursuit of novelty, but by the creation of objects capable of outlasting time itself. Ultimately, I hope that the 18K Gold Eyewear will be appreciated not only as an object made of precious materials, but also as an example that, even in the modern world, it is still possible to create unique handcrafted works with respect for tradition, quality, and longevity.
18K Gold Eyewear cannot be separated from my own personal journey. I grew up in the former Soviet Union, where great importance was placed on engineering thinking, discipline, and respect for quality workmanship. Later, I received an engineering education, and that mindset has remained with me throughout my life. I have always tried to understand not only how an object looks, but also why it functions the way it does. My engineering background also taught me to consider material behavior and the distribution of stresses. During the development of the 18K Gold Eyewear, I constantly thought about where the greatest forces would be concentrated and how the structure would perform over many years of use. This led me to search for solutions that could either reduce stress on vulnerable areas or reinforce them in a way that preserved strength, reliability, and visual harmony. After immigrating to the United States, I devoted decades to fine jewelry craftsmanship. Working in New York, I continuously refined my skills and gained extensive practical experience. Jewelry making taught me patience, attention to the smallest details, and the belief that true quality cannot be achieved without time, persistence, and respect for the material itself. My approach was shaped not only by engineering and years of professional experience, but also by an early passion for art. During my childhood, I spent several years studying sculpture, which helped me develop a sense of form, proportion, and volume. As a result, I have always sought to combine artistic perception with engineering logic. New York also played an important role in my development. It is a city where tradition meets innovation and where people from different cultures constantly exchange ideas. That environment encouraged me to search for my own solutions and not be afraid to follow my own path. Ultimately, the 18K Gold Eyewear became a reflection of my entire life experience. This project brought together engineering thinking, decades of jewelry craftsmanship, a love of handwork, artistic sensitivity, and a desire to create objects capable of preserving their value and individuality for many years.
The development of the 18K Gold Eyewear taught me that true quality requires time, patience, and a willingness to keep learning. Many of the solutions that ultimately became part of the project did not appear immediately, but emerged through numerous trials, mistakes, and repeated refinements. One of the most important lessons I learned is that designers should not be afraid of a long journey or temporary setbacks. I also came to understand that artistic vision and engineering should never exist separately. A beautiful object that lacks reliability and comfort cannot be considered complete, just as a technically perfect construction cannot become truly exceptional without character, proportions, and artistic expression. It is the combination of these two disciplines that gives an object its lasting value. Another important lesson is that the easiest or fastest path is not always the right one. Modern technologies offer tremendous possibilities, but craftsmen should understand their materials, respect their properties, and be willing to invest time in finding the best solutions. In many cases, patience and attention to detail become the source of genuine innovation. I believe that designers should preserve their own vision and avoid chasing temporary trends. If an idea is developed with sincerity and with respect for materials, craftsmanship, and the people who will ultimately use and appreciate the object, that work can retain its meaning and value for many years. Ultimately, the 18K Gold Eyewear convinced me that art and engineering are not opposing forces. On the contrary, it is their union that makes it possible to create unique objects in which beauty, functionality, and longevity exist in harmony.