They already own a pair of Swarovski studded violins valued at $1.5 million each, but want more luxury and more expensive string instruments. Electric violin duo FUSE has collaborated with British jewellery designer Theo Fennell and bespoke violin manufacturer Bridge to craft the world’s first ever 24-carat gold-plated violins, both worth £1,35 million ($2,12 million) each. Individually handmade and exclusive to FUSE, these incredible works of art are made from carbon and kevlar, used to balance the weight of the gold plating and adorned with ruby, sapphire and diamond encrusted golden skulls in pink for Linzi Stoppard and blue for Ben Lee.
Linzi said: “Ben and I fly all over the world to play live, rock violin and in every destination we put on a spectacular show. The thrill of playing with these new gold violins is something I can’t describe. They are stunning works of art by one of Britain’s most renowned jewellers and because Bridge, the original makers of the violins have been involved from the outset, the integrity and sound of each instrument is maintained. Nothing is compromised.”
Ben Lee added: “The art and science involved to make each violin has blown us away. Entirely new and original components had to be designed for the instruments, plus new electronics have had to be engineered to counteract the conductive 24-carat gold. They are exceptional pieces that we will treasure.”
The exquisite instruments which took over nine months to be created were launched to the world’s media at the Theo Fennell boutique, Chelsea, London, before they are taken on tour to America and Asia.
