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JEDDAH: The world of gemstones took center stage at Hayy Jameel in Jeddah as Alliance Francaise hosted a conference with internationally-renowned French artist and sculptor, Nicolas Jourdier over the weekend.

The ‘Interior Jewellery’ event explored how gemstones can transform spaces, emotions and everyday objects into unique works of art.

In an engaging talk, Jourdier explained that he does not work with traditional cut and polished gemstones used in jewelry.

Instead, he assembles semi-precious stones and even simple natural stones, often without commercial value but remarkable in beauty, into functional artworks.

“I didn’t want to cut the stones, so I invented a unique method unlike anything else in the world  to assemble hundreds or even thousands of already polished semi-precious stones,” he said. “I also use simple stones found in nature, which allows me to create truly unique pieces.”

He revealed that the term “interior jewelry” was coined to define this new form of artistic expression.

“Some of my works, like my latest sculpture made of amber, gold and bronze powder, stand 2.56 meters tall and have been exhibited in several iconic venues in Paris,” he added.

He noted the warm reception of his art internationally and expressed excitement about the Saudi market: “I’ve met decorators who were very open to my invention. I’ve been told that Saudis have a great appreciation for stones.

“I feel a strong connection to the energy of stones, and my clients are often surprised because I can usually sense which stone would suit a particular person.”

Jourdier emphasized the importance of matching stones to both the client and the space. “Every stone has its own properties. They benefit us not only through the minerals they contain — for instance malachite is a copper carbonate and a natural antioxidant — but also through their colors.

“Some people need to see pink tones to feel calm and at peace; for them, I create mirrors or tables in rose quartz.

“Others feel good surrounded by red, so I often use red jasper. Some people need to recharge with positive energy so I create pieces in Baltic amber for them.

“In France, we traditionally give amber necklaces to young children when their teeth are coming in to ease their pain.”

Discussing his projects in ��������, Jourdier said: “Green, the color of the banner of the Prophet Muhammad and of paradise, holds deep symbolism in Islam.

“I love creating tables and chandeliers with malachite. I recently sold a large console in Riyadh entirely covered with hundreds of pieces of malachite.

“I also imagine composing Qur’anic verses using fragments of malachite on a golden background.

“Two years ago, I visited the amethyst mines in Brazil and brought back magnificent geodes in deep violet.”

He went on to say express his appreciation for the Kingdom and describe his fondness for his visits.

“I truly enjoy coming to ��������, as I meet people who are welcoming, kind, positive, respectful, and forward-looking.

“On my next trip, I would love to collect stones and sand from the desert to create a unique artwork.”

The audience was equally inspired. Jewellery enthusiast Reem A. Alhussain Al-Khayri describing the experience, said: “It was truly amazing and one of its kind … the most fascinating insight for me was the idea of creating pieces of furniture with gemstones.

“I had never imagined that gemstones could be used in such a manner, transforming everyday objects into unique works of art that carry both beauty and meaning.”

Dr. Ibrahim Abbas Natto, former dean at the University of Petroleum & Minerals, reflected on the significance of hosting an international artist in Jeddah: “During the discussion, I recalled a golden era 50 years ago, during the reign of the founder of modern Jeddah (Mayor Mohammed Said Farsi) and his grand dedication to the arts.

“I expressed my hope that this international artist and the French Center would inspire us to establish one or more artistic memorials, perhaps within the Ballet Center or the Opera Center, both soon to be built in Jeddah.”

Larry Lamartiniere, director of Alliance Francaise, speaking about the event said: “Hosting this conference highlighted a truly unique creator whose work blends the elegance of interior furniture design with the refinement of semi-precious stones.

“The event perfectly embodied our mission to foster cultural dialogue and celebrate contemporary French creativity.

“Through his artistic vision, Nicolas invited the audience to explore the intersection of function, beauty, and material, showing how art can transcend boundaries and inspire meaningful conversations across cultures.”