Damson Idris, the British-Nigerian actor, made a bold statement at the 2026 Academy Awards by showcasing a bespoke diamond brooch he designed himself. This unique piece, part of his fine jewelry label DIDRIS, was crafted in collaboration with Theo Ioannou, founder of CAD-MAN, a bespoke jewelry studio in London.
Inspiration Behind the Brooch
Idris’s journey into jewelry making is deeply personal. He revealed that the concept of connection resonates profoundly with his brand. According to Idris, “It’s more than a brand—it’s a legacy.” This legacy began with his mother, Silifat Idris, who was involved in the London jewelry business during his childhood.
Design Details
The standout feature of Idris’s brooch is a heat-treated marquise blue diamond weighing 7.41 carats. This central stone is complemented by two white marquise diamonds and pairs of triangular diamonds. Additionally, the piece is adorned with 42 natural white diamonds, which collectively weigh 6.38 carats.
- Diamond Sourcing: Diamonds sourced from Botswana and South Africa.
- Certification: Each diamond is certified through the Kimberley Process, ensuring they are conflict-free.
- Symbolism: The number 42 represents seven multiplied by six, with six denoting Idris’s siblings.
Artistry and Heritage
The brooch features a compass-like design, symbolizing a quest for the North Star. Theo Ioannou described the craftsmanship as essential, emphasizing that jewelry carries substantial human value and history.
The Launch of DIDRIS
Idris launched his brand, DIDRIS, following his work on the film F1: The Movie, which is nominated for multiple Oscars. He debuted his first brooch at the 2025 Met Gala, showcasing his transition from actor to jewelry designer. The debut piece featured an 11-carat emerald surrounded by vibrant tourmalines and diamonds.
Upcoming Projects
Idris continues to gain prominence in Hollywood, with notable recognition for his role in F1: The Movie. He received several awards in 2026, including the Horizon Award at the American Black Film Festival Honors. He is expected to appear in the film adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s novel, Children of Blood and Bone, set for release in January 2027.
The Oscars brooch also includes an engraved “F1” on the interior, commemorating the film’s nomination for Best Picture. As Idris embraces his new ventures, he expresses that jewelry offers a unique sense of fulfillment. Unlike acting, which often requires multiple components to align, jewelry design allows him to create on his own terms.
As he explores this new dimension of creativity, Idris reflects on the legacy he hopes to leave behind. He sees jewelry as a timeless craft, one that he can pass on to future generations.
