FOCUS 焦点 12 | JNA July/August 2024 design by offering fresh, unexpected perspectives that might not emerge from traditional design processes alone.” AI tools such as Midjourney and Dall-E assist Atelier Mille Or in generating innovative design concepts and options based on specific themes, which it then refines and adapts using its artisanal experience. Its Cosmos Collection, inspired by AI-suggested patterns and forms, features intricate designs that mimic star constellations and celestial bodies. Its Vitality series, meanwhile, explores anatomical patterns such as heart motifs and organ structures. Messaoudi said consumers are increasingly interested in AI-assisted designs, appreciating the blend of modern technology with traditional craftsmanship. “The originality of AI suggestions lies in its ability to combine elements in novel ways, often resulting in unique and captivating designs,” he explained. “It can create highly personalised designs based on individual preferences, ensuring that each piece resonates deeply with the client.” Artistic balance Shiyamali Paranirupasingam, founder of pearl jewellery brand L’Amour Pearls, is another AI enthusiast. The technology permeates her business, from chatbots and AI-driven email campaigns at key touchpoints of the sales funnel to Augmented Reality (AR) try-on features for her online store and automated tasks to streamline operations and boost efficiency. She agrees that integrating AI in jewellery design offers exciting opportunities but underscores the need to maintain artistic integrity. “AI should augment human creativity rather than replace it, offering inspiration while leaving final design decisions to humans. The technology can generate designs based on patterns and data, but it might lack the unique, emotional connection of handcrafted pieces, potentially resulting in formulaic outcomes,” she said. Moreover, overdependence on AI and the reliance on extensive datasets could limit creativity and innovation. Collaboration among designers, artisans and manufacturers ensures AI-generated designs are practical and uphold traditional craftsmanship standards, she continued. Paranirupasingam’s is an informed perspective on the two worlds as she came to the jewellery industry after a 12-year career in technology across Canada and the UK. In 2022, she was acclaimed as one of the Top 25 Women in AI: Canada. As such, she is dedicated to transforming the pearl industry by integrating AI technology. “Given the labour-intensive nature of traditional pearl production, AI can significantly improve efficiency, quality and sustainability within the field. It particularly holds promise in grading and sorting pearls as well as in pearl cultivation,” Paranirupasingam said, adding she is eager to collaborate with pearl industry leaders, researchers and technologists to explore and implement AI solutions. Operational efficiencies Shah of L’Dezen also leverages AI in operations and retail, from AR try-ons to administrative efficiencies and enhanced productivity. Automation of routine tasks allows designers to focus more on creativity and less on administrative work, she noted. AI can yield valuable customer insights, Shah added. AI-assisted research determined her decision to not get into lab-grown diamonds, while a study of customer preferences for specific gemstones and metals led to a collection using recycled gold. The technology however comes with its own set of challenges. Jewellers must ensure privacy and security of the datasets needed for machine-learning. They should guard too against copyright and Intellectual Property infringements by adding sufficient originality to the final work, among other measures. AI likewise comes with a steep learning curve, necessitating a team that understands both jewellery design and AI technology. Shah is eager to share her learnings with the world. A list of 200 of her tried-and-tested and “frequently used” ChatGPT prompts is posted on her website for entrepreneurs to adopt in their marketing campaigns. “My focus on educating others about the potential of AI and web3 technologies is central to my mission. By sharing knowledge and insights, I hope to inspire fellow jewellers to embrace these transformative tools,” she remarked. Atelier Mille Or is likewise fully engaged in the AI cause, developing custom systems such as its “Professeur Joaillerie” application that arms its younger artisans with technical advice and best practices for jewellery production. It also offers AI jewellery design courses that cover the fundamentals of AI in design, practical applications and hands-on training. The most popular one is a 20-hour course on using different AI tools. “Our AI courses cater to a diverse audience, from aspiring designers to established jewellers and tech enthusiasts, as they empower participants to leverage AI in their creative endeavours,” Messaoudi said. “Designers should however ensure that the final products meet artistic, ethical and technical standards.” Sienna Miller wears Psylish necklace of her daughter’s signature, based on an AI-generated design (Picture courtesy of Payal Shah) Sienna Miller佩戴Psylish以人工智慧设计的项链，上面刻有她女儿 的签名(图片由Payal Shah提供)
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