GOLEM and Laila El Mehelmy Debut Ice-Cube Necklace That Melts in 30 Minutes

Saudi Arabian artist and jeweler Laila El Mehelmy has teamed up with architect Ariel André from the Paris-based studio GOLEM to design the ooOoooOoooOh la l’ice necklace. This unique piece showcases seven ice cubes strung on a solid-silver bead chain, accompanied by a custom silicone tray for freezing. The 'solid water gems' take approximately 30 minutes to melt against bare skin and an hour when worn over clothing. Drawing inspiration from a hot summer 24-hour party at Club der Visionaere in Berlin, the project highlights the contrast between the scarcity of water and the allure of diamonds. As the ice melts, larger silver beads reveal empty spaces, and the necklace can be styled as a traditional piece or a choker, reflecting the ephemeral nature of water. This initiative is featured in designboom's SPECTATOR AND SPECTACLE chapter.