Timeless Beauty: The Florin Collection
Greetings from a strangely foggy Brisbane,
The Florin collection is taking shape, with the wealth, scarcity and romantic nature of these ancient coins re-imagined in gemstones and gold. Set into hand shaped classic ovals and rounds, there is an unlimited variation of gemstones which can be chosen for a truly bespoke piece. The first pieces are based around ruby, sapphire and raw diamond set into 14ct gold.
Whether you choose one for birthstone, marking an achievement or simply a season or a year, your florin piece will form a unique part of your life story which is remembered each time you wear it. As life becomes more digital, having a tactile and present reminder of a particular moment will make it precious memory indeed.
Gold coins minted during the Renaissance were the main currency used by banking families & regions & each manufactured their own designs. The most famous was the Florin coin named after the city of Florence as well as the Venetian Ducat. The use of florins as currency spread world wide (minus the gold content) particularly to the UK & the Commonwealth, the Netherlands (Guilders), Hungary (Forints) & Germany. Australia and New Zealand stopped producing Florin coins in the early 1960's.
Vermilion Jewellery is based on the influences of the Grand Masters and their development of fine art, sculpture and writing during the Renaissance. This includes the principles of chiaroscuro (light/shadow) by creating texture, sprezzatura (deliberate imperfection), and occulus (letting in the light). Colorito is the last influence and the name 'Vermilion' is the famous red pigment used at the pinnacle of fine artistry during that period. These guidelines enable me to keep my artistic focus and not be swayed by the easy use of manufactured components to compromise the design.
Each Florin is unique and the picture you see in the shop is the one you will receive. The series will expand to include all the birthstones. If you need a special combination of gemstones, you can contact me.
