Jewelry Interactions: from Analog to Digital

Digital technologies and scientific advancements, besides having revolutionized the entire jewelry supply chain, overturning the phases and the roles of the actors involved, have permeated the products themselves, affecting their physical and aesthetic features and the systems of interaction they enable. This paper aims to investigate the different systems of interactions within the field of jewelry, focusing on the transition from an analog to a digital context. First, the effects of digital technologies on the supply chains in terms of interaction are briefly described. In particular, the paper finds a possibility to generate an important value for the consumers in open structures, engaging them in co-creating the products along the different phases. Furthermore, the analysis focuses on the product, describing the evolution of interaction mediated by jewelry conceived as an interface, from analog to digital. To this end, the paper suggests a classification of the different types of interaction systems enabled by jewelry as a medium: the static linear system (analog jewelry), the dynamic linear system (relational jewelry), the close circuit dynamic system (jewelry made with smart and reactive materials), and the open circuit dynamic system (wearable technologies). The different systems are described in terms of relationships, features and elements of interaction. The analysis demonstrates how circular open systems represent a turning point for the evolution of body ornaments. This system resulting from new technological and scientific advancements enhances some features that were already intrinsic in the more traditional jewelry systems, such as the relational component it also offers and, other powerful tools to create a one-of-a-kind and made-to-measure experience for the wearer.