Leyla Sitki
11 JANUARY 2024
TIP design studio’s on going ‘Deep Blue’ jewellery collection referring to the first computer to win a game, and the first to win a match, against a reigning world champion. Offers the ultimate timeless status symbol.
A continuing theme that runs through the Tip Design Studios DNA is the humble chess piece. Tasteful, smart and chic with a simplicity and timelessness that the game of chess has come to represent. Chess has played a recurring role in the world of fashion with references appearing in the collections of Alexander McQueen and Louis Vuitton. Cultural phenomenon such as the award-winning drama series The Queens Gambit brought the allure of the chess world to a new generation. The design studio is celebrating this enduring icon with a collection of pendants.
The game of chess is one of strategy and critical thinking, every move you make will have an impact on the overall outcome. Each piece represents a different value and position of power. The first three pieces released from the collection are the Pawn, Rook and Bishop or as they have been named ‘Ludus’, ‘Pragma’ and ‘Agape’. Taking their names from the ancient Greek concepts of love.
Ludus means ‘game’ or ‘school’ in Latin. Ludus is a playful type of love, it is fun and unserious. The Pawn pendant takes on this name Ludus as it seems to best represent the piece on the board. Though considered expendable, the Pawn plays a huge role in a player’s strategy and is almost always the first into battle.
Pragma comes from an ancient Greek term meaning ‘business-like’. The Pragma love type is practical and convenient and most often not derived from true romantic love. Pragmatic lovers have a belief that they are of service, they are rational and realistic. The Rook is the second most powerful piece on the board, it is versatile and can move in a straight line horizontally or vertically. Like a pragmatic lover it is straightforward and practical.
Agape is derived from the ancient Greek term for altruistic love. A lover who sees it as their obligation to give love with no expectation of reciprocity. A love guided by will and reason rather than emotion or attraction. Similarly, the Bishop takes on a role of the protector and becomes incredibly powerful in the endgame. Providing security to protect other pieces and is potentially sacrificed.
The pendants may represent the deeper meanings and power plays behind each piece. An elusive opportunity to communicate your individual power or love type. A homage to the timeless elegance and intelligence of the game. But strip away this meaning, and the simple aesthetic beauty of the piece shines through. Ludus, delicate and refined. Its simplicity and soft roundness poses a quiet charm. Pragma, sharp and angular it is heavier in form, a far bolder and more eye-catching statement piece. Finally Agape, a curvaceous form. It is sleek and sensual with a streamlined elegance.
Each piece has been considerately designed with a focus on quality and longevity. Designed with the intention to become an heirloom piece something as ageless as the game itself to be handed down through generations. Available in solid 9ct yellow gold or solid 925 sterling silver, fully hallmarked, hand finished and paired with a bespoke engraved chain style to compliment the unique form and weight of each piece. The pendants marry together expert craftsmanship and beautifully thoughtful design to create miniature works of art to be carried with the wearer.
Explore our range of fine jewellery here.
