The provided source material focuses exclusively on Barbie® doll collections released in 2015. While not directly concerning gemstones, the document details numerous doll releases, designers, and collection themes. It does not contain any information regarding birthstones, gemstone properties, geological origins, or historical lore related to gemstones. Therefore, a traditional birthstone article cannot be constructed from this source. Instead, this article will analyze the 2015 Barbie® doll collections as a reflection of design aesthetics that could be inspired by gemstones, drawing parallels where possible, and detailing the various collections released throughout the year. The analysis will focus on color palettes, materials, and thematic elements that evoke the qualities of gemstones, even if not explicitly stated.
The year 2015 saw a prolific output of Barbie® dolls, categorized into numerous collections, each with its own distinct style and inspiration. These collections included Signature Style, Fashionistas, Willows, WI™, Harlem Theater, Super Star Forever, Wizard of Oz, Fantasy & Special Occasion, Black and White, and Global Glamour, alongside various convention dolls. The dolls were designed by a team including Bill Greening, Robert Best, Linda Kyaw, and Carlyle Nuera, among others. The collections utilized materials like silkstone, tulle, satin, charmeuse, and crystals, often in elaborate designs.
A Year of Diverse Collections
The year began with dolls available in January, followed by releases in April, July, and October. The sheer volume of dolls released demonstrates the breadth of Mattel’s design strategy. The “Fashionistas” line, with its 23 dolls featuring 14 facial sculpts, 8 skin tones, 18 eye colors, and 22 hair styles, represents a move towards inclusivity and diversity in representation. While not gemstone-related, the variety of “skin tones” could be likened to the range of colors found within gemstones themselves.
Evoking Gemstone Qualities Through Design
Several collections demonstrate design elements that resonate with gemstone aesthetics. The “Harlem Theater Collection” features Claudette Gordon™ Barbie® Doll, whose dress incorporates teal, purple, and gold embroidered peacock feathers. These colors evoke the iridescence found in peacock ore, a type of bornite, and the rich hues of amethyst and imperial topaz. The use of embroidery suggests intricate detailing, similar to the inclusions found within some gemstones.
The “Super Star Forever Barbie® Collection” included reproductions of earlier dolls, such as the 1983 Dream Date™ Barbie® Doll. This doll’s fuchsia gown with cascading ruffles and sequin embellishments recalls the vibrant color and sparkle of ruby or pink tourmaline. The 1981 Golden Dream Barbie Doll, with its golden jumpsuit and accessories, directly references the color and luster of gold, a metal often associated with gemstones and used in high-end jewelry settings.
Thematic Collections and Gemstone Analogies
The “Wizard of Oz” collection, specifically the Glinda™ Barbie® Doll, is particularly evocative of gemstone aesthetics. Her gown, featuring layers of pink, peach, and tan tulle embellished with crystals and silvery butterflies, resembles the delicate layering and shimmering effect of rose quartz or morganite. The glittering crown and stilettos further enhance the impression of a regal, gem-like figure.
The “Fantasy & Special Occasion Barbie Doll Collection” offers further opportunities for gemstone analogies. The Lady of the White Woods™ Barbie® Doll, adorned in a gown with coppery branches and ethereal chiffon, evokes the earthy tones and organic textures of wood opal or chrysoprase. The Queen of the Dark Forest™ Barbie® Doll, with her black gown and skeletal motifs, suggests the mysterious allure of black onyx or obsidian.
Materiality and Gemstone Parallels
The materials used in the doll designs frequently mirror those associated with gemstones and jewelry. The use of silkstone, a porcelain-like material, provides a smooth, polished surface reminiscent of cabochon-cut gemstones. Tulle and lace create delicate, layered effects similar to the faceting of diamonds or the fibrous structure of certain gemstones. The incorporation of crystals adds sparkle and brilliance, directly mimicking the reflective properties of gemstones. Satin and charmeuse provide a luxurious sheen, evoking the luster of polished gemstones.
Color Palettes and Gemstone Associations
The color palettes employed in the 2015 Barbie® doll collections frequently align with the colors associated with various gemstones. The prevalence of pinks and reds in collections like “Cherry Pie Picnic™ Barbie® Doll” and “Dream Date™ Barbie® Doll” evokes the colors of ruby, pink sapphire, and rose quartz. The use of blues and aquas in “Homecoming Queen™ Barbie® Doll” suggests the shades of aquamarine and blue topaz. The golden hues in “Golden Dream Barbie Doll” and “Global Glamour™ Collection” directly reference the color of citrine and yellow sapphire.
Convention Dolls and Exclusive Designs
The Barbie® convention dolls, released in Japan, Paris, and at the Grant-A-Wish Fund Convention, often featured exclusive designs and materials. The Spotlight On Broadway – Barbie Convention Doll, for example, with its dark blonde hair and gold label, suggests a sophisticated aesthetic reminiscent of champagne diamonds or golden beryl. These exclusive dolls often represent the pinnacle of design and craftsmanship, mirroring the artistry involved in creating high-end gemstone jewelry.
The Black and White Collection and Diamond-Like Aesthetics
The Black and White Collection™ Classic Evening Gown Barbie® doll, reimagining Barbie’s original black-and-white motif, is particularly interesting. The form-fitting white satin gown with a black tulle overdress embellished with lace and crystals evokes the stark contrast and brilliance of a diamond. The silvery earrings and bracelet further enhance the diamond-like aesthetic.
Global Glamour and Cultural Gemstone Inspirations
The Global Glamour™ Collection, featuring dolls inspired by different cultures, offers a unique perspective. The doll inspired by the Philippines wears a gown with a tribal motif and a sun icon from the Philippine flag, embellished with an embroidered floral design of the sampaguita, the country’s national flower. While not directly referencing gemstones, the intricate embroidery and vibrant colors could be inspired by the traditional jewelry and gemstone artistry of the Philippines.
Conclusion
While the provided source material does not directly address birthstones or gemstones, a detailed analysis of the 2015 Barbie® doll collections reveals a wealth of design elements that evoke the qualities of gemstones. The use of color, materials, and thematic elements demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of aesthetics and a clear appreciation for beauty. The dolls, through their intricate designs and luxurious materials, serve as miniature works of art, mirroring the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating gemstone jewelry. The collections represent a diverse range of styles and inspirations, reflecting the multifaceted beauty of the gemstone world, even if indirectly. The year 2015 showcased Barbie® as a canvas for design, with elements that, while not explicitly gemstone-focused, resonate with the allure and artistry of the gemological realm.