Baccata Earring 1

LED, recycled capacitors from vintage radio, PVD coated sterling silver

30.6 x 9.3 x10.5mm

Inspired by childhood memories of her mother’s work as a computer practitioner, she is drawn to the shapes, colors, and textures of electronic waste. Merging metalsmithing with digital fabrication, she sets e-waste—including tiny diodes and vintage capacitors from radios—into silver mounts. Sourcing materials primarily from the WEEE Recycling Centre, her research at Central Saint Martins examined the intersection of technology and craft. She challenges conventional notions of fine jewellery, prompting reflection on material value and sustainability. Through her work, Xinyi encourages renewed appreciation for the physical world as a counterpoint to the ephemeral digital culture.

Artist Bio:
Xinyi Chen is an award-winning designer maker based in Merseyside, repurposing discarded electronic components into jewellery she affectionately calls Artificial Intelligems. Her innovative use of colourful electroplating on silver evokes a joyful response. Exploring the narratives embedded in these digital remnants, her work questions what they reveal about contemporary society and the future.
She has exhibited internationally at prestigious events including Goldsmiths’ Fair, MAD About Jewelry, TALENTE Handwerk & Design and BKV Prize, and Royal Treasure Museum. Her pieces are included in the permanent collections of The Goldsmiths‘ Company, Museum of Arts and Design, and Le Arti Orafe.