The world's first gemstone covered car was unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2010, a Honda Odyssey with a blinged out US$88,000 paint job. That translates to 70,000 carats worth of Kyoto Opal.
Kyoto Opal is a manmade opal synthesized to replicate the quartz grain structure of natural opal. Unlike the brittle natural gemstone, Kyoto Opal will not crack or split as easily while offering the distinctive color play of opal itself. The crushed Kyoto Opal was combined with Jewel Paint, a coating technology from Honda Net Nara.
Gemstone-Covered Cars
70,000-Carat Honda Odyssey Unveiled at Tokyo Auto Salon
Trend Themes
1. Gemstone-covered Cars - Using gemstones to cover cars presents an opportunity for luxury car manufacturers to create highly exclusive and opulent vehicles.
2. Synthetic Opals - The development of manmade opals like Kyoto Opal opens up possibilities for jewelry and accessories industries to offer affordable, durable, and visually stunning alternatives to natural opals.
3. Advanced Coating Technologies - The use of Jewel Paint by Honda Net Nara showcases the potential for innovative coating technologies to enhance the appearance and durability of various products beyond just cars.
Industry Implications
1. Luxury Car Manufacturing - Luxury car manufacturers can explore partnerships with jewelry brands and gemstone suppliers to create limited edition gemstone-covered cars that cater to ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
2. Jewelry and Accessories - The availability of synthetic opals like Kyoto Opal allows the jewelry and accessories industries to offer a wider range of opal products at different price points, appealing to a broader customer base.
3. Advanced Coating Technologies - Industries beyond the automotive sector, such as furniture, electronics, and fashion, can leverage advanced coating technologies like Jewel Paint to create eye-catching and durable products with unique finishes.