DESIGN设计 JNA November/December 2024 | 23 “Khalifa” by Lungile Xhwantini, the winning jewellery piece in the professional category of PlatAfrica 2023 由Lungile Xhwantini设计的“Khalifa”，2023年PlatAfrica专业组获奖作品 Since the first discovery of platinum deposits in South Africa a century ago, the country has become a major player in the platinum sector. It is now witnessing growing market potential for locally crafted platinum jewellery – unique pieces imbued with deep-rooted traditional heritage yet pulsating with contemporary style. Platinum has become the metal of choice for South African jewellery designers due to its durability and resiliency, enabling them to push creative boundaries. “I love platinum because it is different and rare, and you can really test its limits,” said Lungile Xhwantini, who topped the professional category of PlatAfrica 2023, South Africa’s platinum jewellery design and manufacturing competition. Xhwantini started his own business in 2021 after honing his skills at The Platinum Incubator in Rustenburg, which helps budding entrepreneurs become platinum jewellery manufacturers and designers. His winning entry, “Khalifa,” is inspired by Dubai’s mesmerising architectural marvel, Burj Khalifa. “It is the tallest building in the world, flexible against the wind and a first of its kind. This is the essence I wanted to reflect in my creation – an exceptional piece that is resilient and flexible, mirroring the unique attributes of platinum,” explained Xhwantini. Jana Basson, who took first place in PlatAfrica 2023’s student category, shares a similar affinity for the metal. A native of Otsuern in the Western Cape, Basson is currently studying jewellery design and manufacturing at university. “I have worked with silver, gold and platinum, and I have to say that I prefer platinum. Its tenacity allows me to create different textures and layers, which can be as thin or as thick as I envision. I also like its shiny finish. All in all, platinum enables me to realise my design ideas easier,” Basson explained. Texture is a signature feature of Basson’s designs. “You can see various finishings, surfaces and layers, as well as movements in my creations,” she said. | Sharon Kwok 郭芷雯 | As South Africa is a major source of platinum, its local jewellery designers are showcasing a modern take on platinum jewellery, creating versatile and fashionable pieces that appeal to both domestic and global markets. 南非是铂金的主要产地，当地的珠 宝设计师锐意创作具现代风格的铂金珠宝，款式时尚百搭，以吸引国内外市场的目光。 SOUTH AFRICAN Contemporary platinum jewellery 当代南非铂金首饰
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