ritish-Nigerian jewelry designer Shola Branson is making his debut at Sotheby’s Paris this month with his latest collection, Fragments. The exhibition marks his first showcase at the prestigious auction house.
Inspired by artifacts from a fictional lost civilization, Fragments is crafted entirely from 18K Single Mine Origin (SMO) Gold, sourced from the Sabodala-Massawa mine in Senegal. The gold is known for its ethical mining practices, which prioritize biodiversity and sustainability. The collection also features natural diamonds from responsible mines in Botswana, South Africa, and Canada.
Branson emphasizes the importance of traceable materials. “SMO Gold lets me track its origin and even choose the mine. For this collection, I selected gold from Sabodala, paired with Botswanamark diamonds. Together, they reflect my commitment to responsible sourcing,” he says.
The collaboration with Sotheby’s comes as the auction house expands its Paris headquarters, offering 30% more exhibition space. The new layout allows Sotheby’s to highlight emerging and established designers like Branson.
In a statement, Sotheby’s praised Branson’s innovative use of colored diamonds and self-taught craftsmanship. “His work always surprises us. We’re thrilled to present his latest collection in Paris, giving jewelry lovers a chance to experience his unique artistry,” the auction house said.
The Fragments exhibition is now open to the public at Sotheby’s Paris galleries.
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