Platinum Winner of the International Architecture & Design Awards 2026
La Mairi Jewelry
Jewelry & Accessories
Completed / Built / Professional Category
Architect / Designer:
Shawna Buker
Studio:
La Mairi Jewelry
Copyright:
Paul Ambtman
Country:
Canada
Concept & Inspiration
Fleur d’Aile explores the relationship between floral structure and avian movement, capturing a moment where a bird appears to land upon a blooming flower.
The design is centered on the idea of “flight meeting bloom,” combining themes of growth, transformation, and elevation into a single, balanced form.
Design Development
The piece was developed through the study of natural forms, focusing on how petals and wings share similar directional movement and curvature.
Key considerations included:
– Translating organic forms into a structured, wearable composition
– Achieving balance between asymmetry and visual stability
– Integrating two distinct elements (bird and flower) into a cohesive design
Form & Aesthetic Resolution
– Layered petals create depth, volume, and a strong visual foundation
– The bird is positioned to guide the eye across the piece, enhancing movement
– Soft transitions between elements maintain fluidity
– The final composition balances delicacy with structural clarity
Materials & Technical Approach
Metal:
– 18k White Gold, selected for its brightness and ability to enhance diamond performance
Gemstones:
– Central pear-shaped diamond as the focal point
– Pavé-set white diamonds across the structure
Techniques:
– Micro-pavé setting for surface continuity
– Minimal prong work to maximize light exposure
– Sculptural construction to achieve dimensional layering
– High-polish finishing to enhance reflection and contrast
Function & Wearability
The piece is designed as a statement yet wearable form, with careful consideration given to:
– Weight distribution and balance
– Smooth transitions and contact points against the body
– Structural integrity of stone settings
– Comfort without compromising visual impact
Innovation & Outcome
The design reinterprets traditional nature-inspired jewelry by combining floral and avian motifs into a single integrated form, rather than treating them as separate decorative elements.
The final outcome demonstrates a balance between:
– Artistic expression
– Technical execution
-Commercial relevance within a high jewelry context
La Mairi Jewelry
La Mairi Jewelry is a Toronto-based fine jewelry studio founded by designer Shawna Buker, whose work is rooted in sculpture, craftsmanship, and emotional expression. Inspired by her grandfather’s stone cutting and metalwork, Buker developed an early fascination with transforming raw materials into refined forms.
With a Fine Arts degree from OCAD University, her practice bridges art and jewelry, treating each piece as wearable sculpture. Her designs are often nature-inspired, combining organic forms with precise construction, and crafted using both traditional techniques and modern technology.
Buker’s work has been featured in Vogue, Vanity Fair, Elle, and Tatler, and showcased at New York Fashion Week, establishing La Mairi as a distinctive voice in contemporary fine jewelry.