Simple elegance in sculptural form.

Distinct and memorable, Orii Jewelry combines elements from nature - wind, water and landscape - with a minimalist architectural aesthetic. Fluid forms convey movement and morph into stunning silhouettes at every angle creating a captivating interplay of light and form.

 

I am first generation Canadian, daughter of Italian immigrants. I grew up observing my father sculpting and painting in his studio. I recall playing with his plasticine clay and falling in love with the magic of making something with my hands. Being rooted with artistic sensibilities at a young age, shaped my life path of becoming an artist.

My passion led to 8 years of fine arts study. I began in a private school in Florence, Italy where I studied jewelry design, art history and architecture. I then went on to attend Concordia University, for sculpture and industrial design. Following university, I furthered my studies with various goldsmithing courses and worked for a reputable family business that specializes in custom jewelry design for 11 years.

Although I have always been passionate about art and design, it wasn't until my mother passed away in 2015, that I realized creating was the only thing that I wanted to do. During my healing process, making art became my therapy and journey into self-exploration, bringing me to a closer understanding of myself. Losing my mother was the driving force to live my life with the utmost passion and purpose, and Orii Design was born.

 

Inspiration

Creativity is the pulse of life and since I live between the mountains and sea, I am constantly reminded that nature is the most magnificent creator. Orii Jewelry has three main collections- Anemoi (wind), Laume (water) and Gaia (landscape). Each piece of jewelry is an abstract representation of elements from nature.

As far back as I can remember, I have been mesmerized by the dynamic movement and transformative aspects of the elements. Observing how wind and water shape the landscape into ever morphing structures, inspires me to create and share natures artistry. Each final piece evokes the sense of movement. My fascination with terrain naturally led to my interest in the contours of the body. The undulating curves of the jewelry compliment the natural contours of the body.

Orii has many meanings in different languages around the world, most referring to either physical or metaphysical illumination – My light, shines like gold, spiritual intuition, rising sun, river or star. Orii is inspired by evolution and transformation in the natural world and in each individual. With polished metal’s ability to reflect light, Orii aims to reflect back your inner light.

 

Process

My creative process is done independently in my Vancouver studio, I often collaborate with a small team local goldsmiths in the manufacturing of my jewelry. Merging traditional metal smithing techniques with computer technologies allow me to explore innovative jewelry forms. 

Every decision made is aligned with my core values to ensure that the environment is protected and that all people involved benefit from my jewellery. Maintaining healthy and supportive relationships with customers and collaborators is a priority. Each design is crafted one at a time or in small batches, using ethically sourced, recycled materials of gold, silver, wood and stone. I design with longevity in mind. The quality and strength of these timeless heirlooms ensures they can be passed down for generations.

Custom designs are either created from scratch or re-imagined from existing pieces in my collection, such as adding gemstones or making alterations.