2026 responsible design Challenge
Yushan Cassie Sun
Yushan Cassie Sun is the owner of Solotus Jewelry Studio in Beijing, China.
As the stones are such a unique combination, I wanted to create an Art Nouveau-inspired piece with a twist. The design is built around flowing lines that twine together like expanded wings, with dangling details that add movement. At first glance, it feels cohesive and elegant, but if you look closer, there are more delicate details to discover—textures in the metal that mimic tree bark, fungi, and flowers, offering small surprises throughout.
Mara’s connection to nature and landscapes became the foundation for the piece. The moss agate felt especially fitting, with its geometric cut softened by organic curves. I wanted to reflect that balance in the design itself. It’s a way of embracing life’s experiences, both structured and unpredictable, and how she has to make peace with them.
A necklace felt like the right choice, both visually and practically. I wanted this to be a signature piece—something unique and timeless that stands out—but also something she could wear often. Compared to earrings, bracelets, or rings, it offers more flexibility and better protection for the agates, while still sitting close to the body.
The arrangement of the stones took some experimentation. The two agates were difficult to place in a way that felt natural, so I moved away from a strict geometric layout and arranged them more like an hourglass. Each is set slightly differently to create a sense of flow. The smaller gemstones are arranged almost like a chandelier, with subtle, embedded details that reveal themselves over time.
The wing-like shape suggests both release and acceptable—an idea that connects to Mara’s journey and Lena’s wishes for her. I wanted the piece to have many layers, something she could look into and get lost in, while also serving as a reminder of where she is now and how much she has overcome.
I imagine Mara wearing the piece to events and openings, where it can naturally become part of a conversation. It would sit nicely along the neckline and feel elegant without being overly formal. With a matte, oxidized antique finish, it’s meant to transition easily into everyday wear, becoming one of those pieces she reaches for whenever she wants to feel a little more put together.
