Anything but flat: Faceted jewellery in a new formation!

Fine Principles (FP), the Berlin-based jewellery brand founded by Alexandra Schwarzwald, presents its first collection, ‘Series XF.’ FP captures the beauty of graphic regularity in folding techniques, transforming it into intricate jewellery pieces. These are crafted using 3D technology in traditional workshops in Pforzheim, employing RJC-certified precious metals.

From the X-form to the first collection ‘Series XF’

With ‘Series XF,’ FP introduces a variety of jewellery pieces to the market, cast in sterling silver or ‘fair’ gold. The collection includes 28 pieces, divided into six categories — ranging from delicate stud earrings to bold statement rings. Each piece embodies its own sense of harmony, defined by 32 to 1024 facets that bring geometric shapes to life with an authentic structure. The systematic use of small triangles across the designs allows for endless combinations, whether mixing models or sizes.

A particular highlight of ‘Series XF’ is the consistent design of the rings. Here, the folds extend 360 degrees, providing not only a captivating visual effect but also a unique tactile experience on the inside. Another distinctive feature is the textured surface, created through the 3D printing process. This texture is intentionally preserved to maintain the precise edges after casting, as polishing often results in a loss of material and character.

The visual language of geometry & grids

From a passion for two-dimensional geometry and (typo)graphic grids, founder Alexandra first ventured into analogue jewellery making in 2015. Beginning with a simple hand-spinner, she started casting geometric shapes in silver, translating her visual language into three-dimensional objects. Her enthusiasm grew with each piece, leading her to explore how facets could shape forms. This exploration resulted in a shift to digital 3D modelling, culminating in the establishment of Fine Principles and the debut of ‘Series XF.’

Principles of mathematics & design

Logic and beauty are the two components that define FP’s multi-faceted jewellery. By employing a mathematical sequence and the graphic regularity of folding grids, dynamic and versatile structures are created that stimulate both the eye and the touch. The reflection of the flat faces, known as facets, gives the jewellery a technically minimalist yet organically floral appearance. This system allows the pieces to be combined as desired, facilitating the seamless continuation of new collections.

3D in production — craft & technology combined

Impressed by the potential of folding techniques, FP draws inspiration from nature’s possibilities. To unfold the complexity of these patterns, grids are studied in 2D and rendered using 3D software. Thanks to advanced 3D printing methods and the precision of investment casting, a vision is transformed into a tangible reality that would be nearly impossible to achieve through manual work alone.

To preserve the faceted structure after casting, the surfaces remain intentionally unpolished, resulting in a slightly textured appearance after finishing. Polishing is avoided in favour of character and authenticity. All this takes place in local workshops in Pforzheim, where designs are crafted from individual pieces to small series using both 3D printing techniques and traditional craftsmanship.

Made in Pforzheim — Made in Germany

Fine Principles places great importance on transparent manufacturing processes and local production. Thus, FP has its jewellery crafted in the “Golden City” of Pforzheim in the Black Forest — a traditional hub for casters, refineries, and goldsmiths. In close collaboration with the partner caster Kalman Hafner, which has specialized in investment casting for over 55 years, the pieces are developed through elaborate processes. Thanks to the close cooperation with the experienced team at the associated goldsmith workshop, custom-made items and small series can now be produced upon request.

About Alexandra Schwarzwald — Alexandra Schwarzwald is the founder and designer of the Berlin-based jewellery label Fine Principles. After studying visual communication at HTW — University of Applied Sciences, she developed a passion for analogue jewellery making. As an integral member of the Monotype Brand Team, she channelled her love for typographic grids and visual systems into wax modelling by studying facets on geometric shapes. Following a period of creative development, she founded Fine Principles in November 2022.

About Fine Principles — We tap into the aesthetic possibilities of folding techniques to craft multi-faceted jewellery with meticulous precision. Through the interplay of thought–out principles and certified precious metals, we create authentic designs that are characterized by graphic regularity, all originating from transparent production processes.