Research and Development: the new frontier of tortoiseshell imitation
At the heart of the research and development path led by Lisa Tavazzani lies an innovative PMMA-based (acrylic resin) material, designed to reinterpret the iconic aesthetics of tortoiseshell through an advanced, sustainable, and scalable industrial process.
The material is engineered to be produced in sheet form through casting — a technique that ensures exceptional visual depth and consistent color across different thicknesses. This enables the use of high-precision manufacturing technologies such as CNC milling and barrel tumbling, ensuring reliable, high-quality results aligned with luxury market standards.
The true innovation stems from an in-depth study of pigments, dyes, and plasticizers, carefully calibrated to recreate a range of tortoiseshell-inspired spots and shades. Each variation has been developed based on the intended product and the color codes of the target luxury brands, offering bespoke solutions that combine aesthetics, performance, and identity.
This project embodies a contemporary vision of materiality: a balance between craftsmanship and industry, between heritage and innovation, capable of meeting the demands of the most prestigious international brands.
