The ad design is simple-a photograph of the upper torso of a woman in profile wearing a black leotard with one arm thrown over her head. Her eyes are lowered; her face is serene. She wears an earring and a ring.

The text of the ad is minimal, consisting of the names of the sources of the designs and the statement “Inspired by Brazilian Modern Ballet Troupe.” Further contact information is contained in a line of text in small print that runs vertically along the side.

And with that, H. Stern and Grupo Corpo are triumphant in highlighting not only the exquisite design of their jewelry but also the beauty of the woman who wears it.

I find this ad extraordinarily compelling in highlighting the distinctive beauty of the woman. Each fold and curve of the origami-like design of the earrings and ring causes the eye to seek out, notice and appreciate the quirky shape of her nose and the delicate folds of her ears. She is at once part of a work of art.

Adornment with jewelry is always an opportunity for personal expression. Done with discernment, adornment can truly be a form of art. In this, the H. Stern ad succeeds brilliantly.

Please ignore the slight striping you may see in the images, which, despite my best efforts, I was unable to eliminate with my scanner and which does not appear in the actual magazine ad itself. You can find the ad in the March 2010 issue of Elle magazine.

JCK