the PIPELINE: Style on Tap

• June 4, 2008 9:30 AM
• The Goods

Twisted Sister: Adeline Cacheux's latest ring gets tangled in a knot

By Nicole Schlomann

Finding a mess of necklace chains at the bottom of your jewelry box could be a cause for dismay—but now you can consider wearing them proudly. Adeline Cacheux's latest "Charles" jewelry collection teaches a lesson in controlled chaos, using deftly twisted and intertwined chains as raw material for necklaces, bracelets, even rings. Molding tough links into a single elegant knot, Cacheux has created a modern and edgy interpretation of the classic cocktail piece. "I like the timeless aspect of a jewel so I try to design accessories that are specific and recognisable and can be worn night and day in many different ways with lots of different styles. I like a jewel to be versatile," she says.
 
It's no surprise that Cacheux has chosen to work in the sculptural realm of jewelry- as an art historian, she worked at a contemporary art gallery for five years before studying metalworking in Paris. Under her studied hand, chunky, lifeless chains become graceful, sinuous pieces. Speaking to the contrast of toughness and ease in her work, Cacheux says, "I always try to maintain my collections in a strong simplicity style and to combine the nobleness of the metal—sterling silver, gold—[with] an emancipated style." Made in France in her Parisian studio, each piece is crafted in limited quantities and engraved with a state hallmark, a certification of quality. How's that for precious?

Adeline Cacheux knotted ring, in silver or gold, about $250, at Pixie Market.