Journal of Design Thinking

Journal of Design Thinking

Flexible Jewelry Design Based on Fractal Aesthetics: A User-Centered Approach for Iranian Young Women

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Azita Ghomashy 1
Nima Haji Jalili 1
Nasser Koleini Mamaghani 2
Ebrahim Bagheri Taleghani 3
1 Industrial Design Department, Iran University of Art, Tehran , Iran.
2 Industrial Design Department, School of Architecture and Environmental Design, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
3 Industrial Design Department, Iran University of Art, Tehran, Iran.
10.22059/jdt.2026.408373.1172
Abstract
This research interrogates the systemic "design gap" and industrial stagnation within the Iranian jewelry sector, characterized by a regressive reliance on aesthetic imitation and a neglect of systematic Design Thinking methodologies. By operationalizing a User-Centered Design (UCD) framework, the study aims to develop a multi-functional, convertible ornament tailored to the evolving value perceptions of young Iranian women (16-20 years), who increasingly prioritize design-led innovation and functional versatility over traditional material commodity weight. Adopting a rigorous applied mixed-methods approach, the study synthesizes the structural principles of Fractal Aesthetics Theory (FAT) with Bionic engineering for mechanical articulation. Empirical data were elicited from a purposive sample of vocational arts students (n=44) via the non-verbal PrEmo instrument to mitigate verbal bias in emotional validation, followed by the application of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to computationally prioritize design parameters and resolve the "Tripartite Constraint" of aesthetics, functionality, and economic feasibility. Quantitative analysis confirms a significant generational pivot toward minimalist-angular geometries, specifically validating the Koch Fractal’s high aesthetic resonance, while establishing a functional protocol for Ring-to-Pendant convertibility. Furthermore, the findings justify a strategic transition to optimized silver-based modularity, as 78% of the target demographic prioritized contemporary design value over traditional gold mass. Ultimately, this study contributes an empirically validated blueprint for industrial revitalization, offering a replicable strategy to elevate the sector from a commodity-centric model to a source of sustainable, innovation-driven competitive advantage.
Keywords
Design Thinking
User-Centered Design (UCD)
Flexible Jewelry
Fractal Aesthetics
PrEmo Tool
Subjects
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Journal of Design Thinking
Volume 6, Issue 1
June 2025
Pages 161-178