Likitha KR, the founder of Niraaj Diamonds located in Bengaluru, has created a unique jewellery piece that is profoundly influenced by Mumbai’s famous Bandra-Worli Sea Link. Her routine travels across this architectural wonder ignited the inspiration for a design that embodies both the essence of the bridge and the vibrant spirit of Mumbai itself.
“The design is intertwined with this bridge that connects the sky and water. This key piece represents the essence of Mumbai,” states Likitha KR.
Design Inspiration and Symbolism-
Connection Between Sky and Water:
Likitha’s design is “intertwined with the sky and water way bridge,” illustrating how the Sea Link connects the city’s land, sea, and skyline. Her concept centers around the bridge’s role as a link between Bandra and Worli, serving as a symbol of Mumbai’s advancement.
Sapphire Stone Representing the Sky:
The prominent sapphire in the piece signifies the expansive sky above the Arabian Sea. This selection reflects the bridge’s visual harmony with its coastal surroundings, where the blue of the sky and sea beautifully merge.
Strings Mimicking Bridge Cables:
The strings incorporated into the jewellery resemble the distinctive cable-stayed design of the Sea Link. Just as the bridge’s cables provide support and create an impactful silhouette, the strings in the jewellery establish both physical and visual connections, referencing the engineering and elegance of the bridge.
Diamond-Encrusted Pathway:
The jewellery’s central pathway, adorned with diamonds, symbolizes the road of the Sea Link. This is the route that countless Mumbaikars traverse daily, making it the “heart of Mumbai,” as Likitha puts it. The use of diamonds accentuates the bridge’s modernity and the dynamic energy of the city.
Sapphire Baguettes Symbolizing Water:
Sapphire baguettes are incorporated to represent the Arabian Sea flowing beneath the bridge. Their design and arrangement evoke the fluidity and depth of water, emphasizing the bond between the city, the sea, and the sky.
Architectural Comparisons:
The Bandra-Worli Sea Link stands as a remarkable achievement in contemporary engineering and design: Its cable-stayed structure with towering supports and sweeping cables is not only functional but also visually striking, making it an iconic element of Mumbai’s skyline. The bridge’s aesthetic unity with the natural landscape, characterized by sleek lines and a blue-white color scheme, is reflected in Likitha’s jewellery through her selection of gemstones and their arrangement. The Sea Link embodies Mumbai’s ambitions and interconnectivity, and the jewellery seeks to capture that essence in a piece of wearable art.
Artistic and Emotional Significance:
Likitha KR’s creation transcends mere jewellery; it serves as a homage to Mumbai’s resilience and aspirations. By translating the architectural features of the Sea Link into gemstones and gold, she has crafted a statement piece that resonates deeply with anyone connected to the city’s heartbeat.