2012 Laser Distinction Winners
The laser has become one of a designer’s most valuable tools, enabling metals to be joined in ways previously unimaginable. This year’s winning entries once again show the exquisite intricacy and detail made possible by the laser, and serve as a testament to the beauty made possible through the marriage of technology and tradition.
Our thanks to the Laser Distinction sponsor:
1st Place Winner
Julie Buckareff, JJ Buckar, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Rock Crystal Quartz Flower Brooch. This piece, completely assembled with the use of a laser welder, combines rock crystal quartz, white diamonds (ideal cut, hearts & arrows), pink diamonds (natural color), Peruvian opal, 18k rose gold, and palladium. The piece could not have been made to its quality standard without the use of laser welding, Bucareff says. The laser enabled her to create a seamless finish or "black line" joint where the palladium meets the 18k red, and also to fasten the flower center to the flower head (since the rock crystal couldn’t withstand heat). The rose gold stem was welded together during assembly in order to conceal the seams.
2nd Place Winner
Julie Buckareff, JJ Buckar, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Blue Zircon Diamond Rope Ring. This .950 platinum ring contains a 7.05 carat blue zircon; 1,006 diamonds at 3.04 carats (ideal cut, hearts and arrows, D-E color, IF-VVS clarity). Designed around a concept of a "celestial diamond rope," it seamlessly suspends pure color that can be appreciated from all sides. This piece was completely assembled and the center stone set with a laser welder.
Also won Second Place, Visionary Technical Solution.