The ATOMIUM Collection
2025 National Association of Jewellers “Collection of the Year” Finalist
A collection inspired by an iconic structure
The ATOMIUM was designed and built for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair as a tribute to scientific progress.
It is over 100m tall, combines nine 18m steel spheres connected to represent an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times.
The ATOMIUM in Belgium may seem a strange inspiration for jewellery, but using the core design theme of the atoms and their connections informs the structure of the pieces in the collection.
Each piece in the collection contrasts the rigid atomic inspired structure, with beach-sand cast surfaces. The chaotic and rough nature of the sand cast surface juxtapose the fine finish of bars and stone settings, reflecting the perfect iron crystal structure with the nature park which surrounds it.
Each piece within the collection features multiple tube set stones, these are all natural spinels, zircons, sapphires or diamonds. The diamonds used in this collection include diamonds from Ocean Diamonds, my preferred supplier, who source diamonds from the sea off South Africa. All of the gold used is Single Mine Origin (SMO Gold) which is responsibly mined and fully traceable. I use 9ct gold in this collection as 9ct holds the texture of the sand casting longer than other carats of gold, in addition some of the pieces use gold which I have alloyed myself to give a slightly lighter colour.
Each piece is a one off as every sand cast item is cast in a mould which can only be used once. If you see an item you like but would prefer a different colour palette of stones or a different gold carat please contact me to enquire about bespoke options.
A Convergence of Geological History and Mid-Century Structure
The Atomium No. 8 stands as the definitive expression of the Iain Sainsbury Atelier. It is a work of high-precision "Sentimental Topography," where the brutalist optimism of 1950s Belgian architecture meets the ancient, metamorphic soul of the Cornish coast.
The Landscape: The Lizard’s Echo
The soul of this ring is born from the very tip of the Lizard Peninsula. The shank is sandcast in 9ct SMO (Single Mine Origin) Gold, using raw sand gathered from Kennack Sands, Cornwall.
This specific shoreline is a geological anomaly, rich in Serpentine - an uncommon metamorphic rock that gives the sand, and the resulting gold texture, a unique molecular signature. Because the sand-casting ritual is destructive, the mould is sacrificed to reveal the gold. This ring is not just "limited edition"; it is a singular, unrepeatable moment in time.
The Architecture: Raw Meets Refined
The structure of the piece is a direct dialogue with the Atomium in Brussels. A complex support system of fine tube settings reflects the interconnected spheres of that iconic landmark.
The Centerpiece: A deep, purple-blue Tanzanite acts as the structural heart.
The Orbit: Surrounding the centre are three Parti Sapphires and three Blue Spinels, creating a gradient of oceanic tones.
The Foundation: The shank is meticulously set with ten Ocean Diamonds (GH SI), ethically sourced and precision-set to catch the light against the raw, sand-cast texture.
The Craft: PhD Precision
Every element of Atomium No. 8 has been hand-cleaned, filed, and polished with the discipline of a scientist and the eye of an architect. The result is a Modern Monolith - a piece that feels substantial on the hand and significant in the soul.
Technical Specifications
Metal: 9ct SMO (Single Mine Origin) Gold.
Source Location: Kennack Sands, Cornwall (Serpentine-rich deposit).
Primary Stone: Natural Tanzanite (Purple-Blue).
Accents: 3 Parti Sapphires, 3 Blue Spinels.
Shank Stones: 10 Ocean Diamonds (GH SI).
Size: M (Can be adjusted slightly upon request).
Exclusivity: A true 1-of-1 commission.
The Design Dialogue
While Atomium No. 8 is a finished masterpiece, the ritual can be reimagined. If you feel a connection to this architectural silhouette but wish to explore a different gemstone palette or a specific coordinate of sand, I invite you to initiate a dialogue.