“Auraverde” by Manthra Shri Velayutham
Diploma in Fine Jewellery Design 2024 Batch
Let’s talk about “Amazon Forest” by Manthra Shri Velayutham, who won the “Rainforest Resonance Design Award”. This isn’t merely a high-fashion homage to Amazon. It’s a love letter to the most untamed, living, breathing piece of Earth that happens to be the planet’s lungs. Sense and feel the rainforest atmosphere everywhere, from the river-inspired drapes to the full earthy, mystical vibe.
They begin with an 8mm link chain, the skeleton; a chunky, hand-tweaked, completely fluid base. Brass slabs (1.5mm thick) then follow, bent, torched, and shaped into a neck base. Include fabrics that are not only sustainable but trend, soft to the hand but custom-stitched.
The beads aren’t just for display purposes; they have real meaning. Tiger’s Eye and Amethyst aren’t arbitrary, these stones are strength and positive energy, infusing main-character energy into the whole set. The 8mm glass beads replicate the shine of Amazon river water. That rests on a canvas backing, so it doesn’t disintegrate straight away after a season.
The integration of components came together rather painstakingly. They were immersed in local bazaars, searching for the right pieces, negotiating with artisans and karigars, breaking through language barriers and the perpetual last-minute glitches. Each piece has its own little story of how it came to be.
Amazon Forest doesn’t just reflect the conventional runway show atmosphere. It’s an innovative combination of eco-consciousness, crazy talent, and real intention. Manthra is showing the world that we can create something lovely while we still nurture Mother Nature. Next time should anyone inquire about your ensemble, respond proudly, ‘It’s a touch of the rainforest.’
