Kering’s First Generation Award: Celebrating Innovation in Jewelry
Kering, in collaboration with CIBJO — the World Jewellery Confederation and expert guidance from Poli.Design—Politecnico di Milano, has unveiled the winners of the inaugural Kering Generation Award x Jewelry at the recent JCK trade show. This competition not only showcases fresh talent but also champions sustainability in the jewelry sector.
Theme: "Second Chance, First Choice"
The unique theme, “Second Chance, First Choice,” inspired a vibrant range of applications from both students and start-ups. Participants were challenged to innovate through the design of a jewelry piece or collection. The competition attracted diverse talent from ten prestigious universities and academies that specialize in jewelry and sustainability, along with established start-ups. Ultimately, four exceptional finalists—two students and two start-ups—were selected by a distinguished jury.
Meet the Winners: Lee Min Seo and Ianyan
In the students’ category, the winning title went to Lee Min Seo, a standout from Hongik University in South Korea. Lee’s jewelry collection brilliantly transforms discarded leather from the jang-gu, a traditional Korean percussion instrument. This innovative approach not only preserves cultural heritage but also reinvents traditional Korean music into an appealing, sustainable form.
Lee Min Seo’s jewelry.
Courtesy Kering
In the start-ups category, Ianyan emerged victorious. This Chinese brand stands out by incorporating fractured opals and unique stones—often overlooked in conventional jewelry—emphasizing their raw beauty. By selecting these imperfect gems, Ianyan breathes new life into materials through exquisite craftsmanship. With a commitment to sustainability, the brand utilizes enamels, recycled metals, and modular techniques. Each piece is crafted to be repairable, transformable, or recomposable, promoting a circular economy.
Ianyan’s creations.
Courtesy of Kering
A New Era for Jewelry Design
This award marks a significant milestone in Kering’s Generation concept, which previously launched in the fashion and textiles sector in China back in 2018, then expanded into Japan and Saudi Arabia. The push for innovation within the jewelry industry is now more relevant than ever.
Jury Members: Industry Titans
The jury for this prestigious award comprised a powerhouse of leaders in the luxury and sustainability sectors, including:
- François-Henri Pinault, Chairman and CEO of Kering
- Marie-Claire Daveu, Chief Sustainability and Institutional Affairs Officer of Kering
- Hélène Poulit-Duquesne, CEO of Boucheron
- Sabina Belli, CEO of Pomellato
- Gaetano Cavalieri, President of CIBJO
This collective expertise underscores Kering’s commitment to nurturing a new generation of innovators in jewelry.
Driving Sustainable Innovation
According to Kering, the program aims to foster a vibrant international community of young talent—students and startups alike—eager to reimagine the jewelry industry as it evolves toward sustainability and creativity.
Explore more about Kering’s dedication to sustainability and innovation in jewelry here.
Kering’s Generation Award is not just a recognition of talent; it is a call to action for the entire jewelry industry. With initiatives like these, the future of jewelry looks brighter, more sustainable, and ultimately more innovative.
