To those who appreciate the finer things in life, I think it is easier for me to persuade you on the proverbial expression that indeed, “luxury is in the details.” Do you agree?
In my opinion, there is a premium when you encounter a deeper appreciation on the artistry that goes into the creation of a most coveted luxury possession. In addition, there is a certain appeal that connects you to a piece of item most especially when it was hand shaped by an artisan and touched by inspiration.
Case in point: One of Rustan’s VIP clients recently invited this columnist to an exclusive preview of John Hardy’s new collection. When I was trying to find my way to the event venue from the ground floor, the friendly attendants simply led me to the “Silver Vault” located at the second level of the high-end store. As I was searching for the John Hardy boutique, the sound that resonated from the clinks of champagne flutes and scenes of well-heeled women in high spirits confirmed that I have arrived at the right location.
“There is something about the pieces that empowers you,” this columnist shared to an utterly amiable man during the John Hardy event.
“Yes, you are correct,” he quipped. Coincidentally, I was exchanging my honest thoughts about the collection to the commercial general manager of John Hardy for North Asia, Godfrey Hung, who flew in from Hong Kong for this exclusive VIP event organized by Rustan’s.
Inadvertently, I was actually on point on the brand’s philosophy. According to them, John Hardy creates beauty that empowers the wearer. Moreover, they cultivate artisanship that inspires desire and compels emotions with stories of power, drama and inspiration.
As I was admiring the collection, I observed that each piece was thoughtfully handmade to the detail. Suffice it to say, it has soul. As such, I learned that John Hardy is a brand renowned for artisan-crafted luxury jewelry since its establishment in Bali in 1975. It carries in its DNA a tradition of artistry that dates back to the ancient Balinese courts as evident in its unique design aesthetic.
“I am excited to announce that you are the first to see in Asia the 2016 New Collection of John Hardy,” Godfrey explained to an appreciative crowd during the launch.
He added, “…the items that you’ll see on display are 100 percent handmade.” He further explained that it takes the whole day for artisans to finish roughly a 7-inch long piece of jewelry.
Effortlessly elegant, they have managed to present John Hardy’s iconic collection with a fresh approach for spring. Inspired by nature’s gift, the collection is sleek, timeless and modern. It was versatile and high on contemporary elegance.
The artisans’ graceful design and skill in combining silver and gold to create harmony was evident in each piece.
A personal favorite is their display of signature hand-woven bracelets in multiple strands. The Men’s Collection marks the end of winter with luxurious design details such as colorful translucent enamel on hand-carved chain motif. Shades of blue ranging from rich leather bracelets to lapis lazuli beads add an intense pop of color to this season’s Classic Chain collection, perfect for welcoming the warmth of spring.
John Hardy collections are available at around 600 retail locations across 27 countries or regions and luxury jewelry retailers worldwide. In the Philippines, John Hardy Boutiques is exclusively available in Rustan’s Ayala Center in Makati City; Rustan’s Shangri-la Plaza Mall in Madaluyong City; and Rustan’s Ayala Center, Cebu City.
To those who value handmade luxury, know that John Hardy put in hard attention to every detail for each item you intend to thoughtfully purchase for your lucky one.
Photos by Lorna Llanes
Follow me on Twitter or Instagram
@francis_deleon8 or email:
deleon_francis@yahoo.com.