Continue the journey
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Lots of love! Aisha and Cate
Xiao Long Bao Necklace
Taiwan Collection
Inspiration: Xiao long bao
Materials: Gold, pearl, ivory enamel
Craft Detail: Folded pleat forms, rounded centers
Region: Taipei
Dish Profile: Savory, soup-filled
Inspiration
This necklace is inspired by xiao long bao, a steamed dumpling known for its thin wrapper, pleated top, and soup-filled center. Visually, the dish is defined by soft ivory tones, folded edges, and a rounded core. These characteristics are reflected in the jewellery design through crescent-like gold folds, smooth rounded volumes, and pearl-like center elements. Xiao long bao are traditionally steamed in bamboo baskets and served immediately, a preparation method that requires precise shaping to contain the broth—an approach echoed in the necklace’s controlled, enclosed forms.
Discovery
Aisha and Cate encountered xiao long bao at a specialized dumpling restaurant in Taipei. They observed how each dumpling is pleated by hand using a fixed number of folds to ensure structural balance. Cate focused on the regularity of the pleats and surface tension of the dough, while Aisha noted how the filling remains visually hidden. These observations informed the jewellery design through repeated fold patterns, smooth surface finishes, and centrally placed pearl elements developed from measured sketches.
Travel Diary
While dining, Aisha and Cate noticed that dumplings with uneven pleats are removed before service. Cate later referenced this emphasis on uniformity when refining the necklace’s repeating forms.
Where we find our Jewellery inspiration
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