De Beers Collaborated on Sculptural Art Piece
The jewelry giant partnered with Mabeo Studio and weaver Shakunona Parata to create the Diware sculpture.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Jewelry Making
Live Poll
Do you believe supporting traditional artisan craftwork is important for preserving your community's cultural heritage?
De Beers and Mabeo Studio have unveiled a new sculptural work titled Diware for the Homo Faber exhibition. The piece was created in collaboration with Shakunona Parata of the Ngamiland Basket Weavers.
Why it matters
The project integrates traditional basket weaving techniques with high-end design elements to honor cultural heritage. It highlights a crossover between luxury jewelry brands and regional artisanal craftsmanship.
The De Beers Group was established in 1888 and currently employs 20,000 people. The Diware sculpture features a combination of woven palm leaves, porcupine quills, carved wood, and semi-precious stones.
The players
De Beers
This international corporation is a leader in the diamond exploration, mining, and retail industry.
Mabeo Studio
This design firm works with artisans to create furniture and sculptural pieces rooted in traditional craft.
Shakunona Parata
She is a skilled craftswoman and a member of the Ngamiland Basket Weavers collective based in Botswana.
Abongile Sidzumo
This artist contributed to the broader creative programming featured at the Homo Faber event.
The details
The Diware sculpture draws inspiration from traditional Manyevora attire and is currently featured at the A Rooted Ascent room in Venice. Shakunona Parata demonstrates live basket weaving techniques as part of the installation.
Timeline
Abongile Sidzumo participated in the Homo Faber exhibition in August 2026.
De Beers and Mabeo Studio will collaborate at Frieze Masters in London in October 2026.
Culture Shift
The luxury industry's focus on artisanal collaborations underscores a shift in how major jewelry brands validate their creative authenticity. This collaboration follows the trend of high-end brands integrating traditional craft techniques into their modern design output.
For jewelry enthusiasts, this project signals a trend toward incorporating raw, natural materials into high-end collections. Readers may see similar artisanal influences in future boutique jewelry and decorative art markets.
The takeaway
Collaborations like this emphasize the growing value placed on traditional weaving and carving skills in modern design. Enthusiasts can implement these techniques by sourcing natural, locally harvested materials for their own creative projects.
Further reading
Explore the evolution of modern design within Jewelry Making.
Live Poll
Do you believe supporting traditional artisan craftwork is important for preserving your community's cultural heritage?
