Austin James Smith's "OASIS" Jewelry Collection Oozes Serpentine Sophistication
The grandiose jeweler’s latest creations employ signature mixed metals and an all-over lava-lamp pattern.
For jewelry designer Austin James Smith, opulence is the name of the game. Following his striking “UTOPIA” collection released earlier this year, the maximalist accouterment purveyor has returned with his eighth line of dazzling accessories, dubbed “OASIS.”
Bidding adieu to the industrial design codes that defined Smith’s previous output, this next collection relies on a sculptural approach, with inspirations rooted in “serpentine elegance,” “entwining tendrils” and harsh desert environments. With every collection, Smith artistically examines the symbiotic relationship between identity and decoration; and here, he does so with a sophisticated edge.
“I’ve really thought hard this year about the direction of my jewelry design practice, to create something special and truly unique to me,” Smith wrote on Instagram. “After being ripped off multiple times by brands large and small, I felt like it was time to think outside the box for the vision I wanted to create for this upcoming collection.”
“Phase 8 Oasis is a symbol of growth and change that I am fully embracing,” he concluded.
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Made from the jeweler’s hallmark blend of mixed metals, each piece features a raised lava lamp pattern, offering a slithering textural finish to the designer’s refined creations. Per Smith, the collection’s motif serves as a testament to humankind’s ability to endure and embrace the ups and downs of life.
Among the line’s standouts, the Baby Spore Earring trickles and twirls down from the ear with a pointed end, and the Coil Earring juts out from under the ear in a wavy fashion, mimicking the slink of a serpent. The Eternal Ring, meanwhile, adopts an organic, curving shape that commands its wearer’s finger, and the Eternal Link Necklace and Bracelet feature a bounty of winded snakes, each linked by the tail.
Austin James Smith’s “OASIS” collection will launch on August 29 via the brand’s webstore. Take a closer look at the sumptuous range above.
For more, revisit Hypebeast’s interview with the lavish jewelry designer.
