FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Russian Traditional Parure: Reviving Heritage Jewelry with Contemporary Sustainable Craft

Ekaterina Korzh, an MFA student in Jewelry & Metal Arts, has received the prestigious Iron A' Design Award 2025 for her Russian Traditional Parure jewelry set. This project, developed over six months in Lawrence, Kansas, reimagines the ornate jewelry once worn by young women in Northern Russia during their coming-of-age ceremonies. By blending traditional embroidery and metalwork with modern sustainable practices, Korzh creates a powerful artistic protest against contemporary Russian state propaganda, while honoring authentic national heritage.

The Russian Traditional Parure consists of three main pieces: a Celebration Tiara, a faux amber neckpiece, and an Ojerelok neckpiece. Each element is crafted using a combination of historical materials-such as mother of pearl, silk velvet, and vintage glass beads-and innovative techniques, including the application of cloisonné goldsmithing directly onto recycled glass. This unique approach not only preserves the intricate beauty of Russian folk jewelry but also introduces environmentally conscious methods to the craft.

Korzh's research-intensive process involved studying the jewelry traditions of the Russian North to ensure historical accuracy and cultural authenticity. The project required overcoming significant technical challenges, particularly in adapting cloisonné techniques for recycled glass. The result is a jewelry set that bridges past and present, offering a contemporary reinterpretation of Russian heritage while promoting sustainable craftsmanship. The Iron A' Design Award recognizes the project's excellence in design, innovation, and its contribution to cultural preservation.

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