multi purpose packaging for jewelry by Eena Basur from india

Kanwal’s, a boutique store of silver jewelry were looking at redesigning their packaging. Their collection consists of a wide range of classic as well as modern designs set in sterling silver and silver gold plated. The business gets its name from its owner, Kanwal, meaning Lotus flower. The experience at the store is personal as Kanwal sees it as a space where she builds and nurtures relationships. We wanted to develop a concept for the packaging that translates the essence of Kanwal’s and yet keep the ecological impact to the lowest. The design development was based on a conscious effort not only to reduce the manufacturing process and material consumption but also to reduce the number of boxes and carrybags required for each purchase. After some back and forth between the design table, prototyping, testing, refining and client-satisfaction the final design emerged.

The Essence:
Lotus. Flower. Nurturing. Exquisite. Minimalist. Working on the metaphor of a flower blooming, the experience is built by unveiling the jewelry lying at the core of the flower.

The Purpose:
The packaging was designed to be multi-purpose and adaptive. At the time of purchase, it functions as a jewelry case as well as a carry bag. The design is an attempt to move away from the concept of a box for each piece of jewelry that further goes into a carry bag. Once the jewelry has reached its destination it adorns the dresser as a jewelry stand. It was intentionally designed to do so in order to increase the life span of the packaging beyond its original function but additionally it adds value for the user, and increases brand visibility in a subtle way.

The Structure:
A collapsible structure was designed to consume the least amount of space when stored. The three-petal form is derived from the logo - an abstract of a lotus, further emphasizing the brand. When closed its resembles a bud. The three petals of the outer shell open out to reveal the inner core that holds the jewelry. The inner core, again, consists of three sides and is held together through a system of interlocking with the purpose of holding the jewelry secure. The interlocking was designed to ensure no use of glue. The outer shell acts as a protective layer that is stringed together with a simple to use locking system. The inner case is held in its place with a tiny drop of glue attaching it to the outer shell at the base, making it the only glue used for the entire packaging.

The Material:
The packaging is made out of recyclable papers – Silver paper for the outer shell & Gold paper for the inner core. A silver dori (string) holds the outer shell together. It functions as a lock as well as a handle to carry the jewelry.

Manufacturing Process:
Screen-printing to the bare minimum. Die-cutting for the outer shell, the inner shell and the lotus logo tag. Assembled together by hand. The process ensured negligible amount of material wastage making it cost effective as well.