Nita Ambani's rare dragonfly brooch took 10 years to make. What makes world-renowned Chinese jewellery creator Wallace Chan's jewellery so special?

Nita Ambani's latest appearance has caught attention for more than just her outfit. At the opening of The Library at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) in Mumbai, she wore a rare Wallace Chan brooch estimated to be worth between Rs 12 crore and Rs 15 crore. The jewel, named Soaring Spirit, became the highlight of her look at the October 31 event. Its unusual design, colourful gemstones and detailed craftsmanship have brought the spotlight back on the work of Chinese jewellery artist Wallace Chan.

Nita Ambani's dragonfly brooch: what is soaring spirit?

The brooch is inspired by a dragonfly, an insect often linked with freedom, change and new beginnings. NMACC described the design as a symbol of “dreams, freedom and infinite possibilities” in its Instagram caption. According to The Indian Express, the piece was created by Wallace Chan and took 10 years to complete. It features a 17.67-carat tsavorite garnet, along with demantoid garnets, rubies, pink sapphires, yellow diamonds and other coloured diamonds. The brooch is estimated to be worth $1.5 million to $1.8 million, which is around Rs 12 crore to Rs 15 crore.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Priyanshu Goel | Celebrity Jewellery (@the_gemtlemen)

Why is Wallace Chan's dragonfly brooch so unique?

Unlike a regular brooch, Soaring Spirit has a sculptural design that makes it look like a small piece of art. The jewel uses titanium, a lightweight metal that allows the dragonfly's body to move with the wearer. Chan's official website explains that the insect's wings are inspired by an abacus, a tool used for counting and measurement.


The artist has also explained how the dragonfly observes its surroundings and adjusts its movement. The design reflects the idea of understanding the world through observation and balance. Wallace Chan is known for creating jewellery inspired by nature. His work often features butterflies, dragonflies, fish and other natural forms. He combines traditional carving skills with modern materials to create pieces that look more like sculptures than conventional jewellery.

How Nita Ambani styled her Rs 15 crore brooch

Nita Ambani kept her outfit simple so the brooch could stand out. She wore a beige linen pantsuit with a tailored blazer, flared trousers and a blush-pink lace blouse. Diamond earrings, a statement ring and a watch completed the look. The neutral colours of the outfit made the colourful gemstones of the dragonfly brooch more noticeable. The appearance also came a day before her 63rd birthday, which falls on November 1.

What is the library at NMACC?

The Library is a new cultural space at NMACC that brings together books, food and conversations. The venue aims to encourage reading and give visitors a place to explore literature and attend cultural events. Nita Ambani said at the launch, “We want to bring the joy of books and reading back to the young generation.” The brooch's name and symbolism made it a fitting accessory for an event focused on learning, creativity and new ideas.