Designed and Produced in Toronto
East Continental Gems has partnered with Marvel to create a one of a kind collectable unlike any other before it: Loki’s Scepter. They Called upon the master craftsmen of Spirit Ironworks (NY) to replicate the most authentic rendition of this iconic movie weapon. Simultaneously, ECG turned to Adam Jarvis and his team at Juggernaut Illustration and Design Inc. (Toronto) to create the display case and table that would house the Scepter. This post is about the design and production that went into it.
From the treasure vault of Odin himself, Loki‘s Scepter has intrigued Marvel Fans from around the world. Its iconic design made its movie debut in Marvel Entertainment’s The Avengers (2012). When Loki, (son of Odin and brother to Thor) waged havoc on the people of New York. His Scepter was at the center of the storyline and throughout the Infinity Saga. It’s power deriving from the Mind Stone. One of the six Infinity Stones. Now, this legendary MCU weapon has become a reality.
ECG sought out experienced artisans to bring their vision to life. The inspiration was in a one in a million gem. At 20.26 carats, this natural yellow sapphire represents the legendary Mind Stone.
The Scepter itself was crafted by Sprit Ironworks. A New York studio that specializes in ornamental and architectural metalwork. They studied the MCU references related to Loki’s Scepter and fashioned this one of a kind Marvel replica. See the video at the bottom of this post.
This masterpiece is a 1:1 recreation of the iconic scepter famously wielded by Loki. It is handcrafted from brass featuring a stainless steel blade polished to formidable perfection.Its centerpiece is a 20.26 carat natural yellow sapphire housed within a hand-blown blue-glass orb, creating dynamic brilliance. Every detail has been cared for, ensuring absolute fidelity to the design first created by Marvel artists. The artisans at ECG and Spirit Ironworks poured thousands of hours into crafting a one-of-a-kind replica that embodies all the might and history of Marvel Lore.Visit East Continental Gems to learn more
Presented in Asgardian Elegance
The inspiration for this one of a kind display case comes from several sources. The art direction of Asgardfrom the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe) is filled with well-crafted examples of set design worthy of the Gods. From detailed armour to decor to architecture, the Art Directors for these movies drew influence from many cultures without directly appropriating any symbology. We followed the same philosophy.
Intertwining gold and silver substrates helped to achieve the etherial texture that this container required. We used materials that were highly reflective. But focused our attention on the smallest details. Blending visual cues from legendary Marvel Artist Jack Kirby, we set out to pay homage to this iconic MCU artifact. While also paying our respects to the art on which the foundation of the entire Marvel brand is built.
East Continental Gems (ECG) has taken their own passion for these fantastic stories, characters and objects and turned them into a collection of rare and beautiful keepsakes. Injecting the small details that are appreciated by Marvel Fans world wide.
Research and Copywriting
I pulled in my younger brother to help set the storyline. Ryan Jarvis is not just a comic book collector, he’s more of a Comic Book Historian at heart. He provided context for the display case design along with many sourced visual and Marvel comic book references. He wrote the text that is featured on the laser engraved name plate (D&G Trophies). Written in the tone of a priceless artifact on display at a museum. But also written as an MCU Fan speaking to other Fans. This unseen ingredient is the secret sauce that is baked into every piece.
Infinity Display
The only container worthy of an Infinity Gem is Infinity itself. As a Marvel Fan my entire life, I knew that enclosing it in a pre-fabricated, common glass case just would not do. I pushed for something far more fitting of this legendary fantasy weapon. ECG not only supported this approach, they challenged me to break my own high score. In the very first project briefing over zoom, I sketched out a concept that would later serve as the blueprint for the final execution. Along the way we discovered materials and techniques that would put this Marvel collectable in another category all together.
By implementing an infinity mirror effect to reflect an inner cavity, I could replicate and repeat an abyss of gold, silver and diamonds. I immediately reached out to Structural Divine (Toronto) to help me realize it. Together, we worked with Next Gen (Toronto) to manufacture precision cut pieces into a final unit. Using vector art as our base language, we orchestrated an intricate blend of materials, electricity, reflection and physics into mathematical certainties. Structural design and graphic design working in tandem for one purpose: to display a unique object in the most fitting way.
A perfect fit
When sliding the acrylic cover into the channel of the base, the slow hiss of the air releasing is the sound of an accurate fit. When the light hits it just right, you can see 2 levels of printing and UV spot finishing glimmer in layers black. The first thing that viewers see is the magnificent craftsmanship of the Loki Scepter. It draws them in. When they get close enough, the look down into an abyss of Asgardian artistry. Sparkling acrylic gems in infinite settings casting a spell on all who look upon it.
The exterior of the black, glossy base of the display has multiple layers of printing and UV spot varnish. Inspired from many Nordic influences and MCU visual reference, I created a custom pattern and framing that catches the light. Raised black on black printing adds a delicate texture that you can feel through cotton gloves.
“We fabricated each piece based on the files that we were provided by Structural Devine. Everything fit perfectly.”Khumar, Master Acrylic Engineer, Next Gen
Because this display was being produced in tandem with the production of the Scepter, we did not have the luxury of the actual object to measure and weigh. We had to rely on supplied measurements to envision the two pieces united together. We used the highest quality and strength of acrylic that we can find to create 2 sets of support pillars. One pair to hold Loki’s Scepter and another pair below to support the weight. When illuminated, both levels of reflection seamlessly repeat into forever.
Below the reflective surface lies an intricate series of decorative layers and lighting. One layer of reflective silver with intricate flourishes and a top layer of die cut gold mirror. Each opening is strategically positioned to allow light in and bounce throughout the interior. 4 bands of high intensity cosmetic display LED lights trim the perimeter and weave between the layers to provide an ethereal glow. Refracted light casts up to illuminate the scepter in ways that exterior lighting cannot seem to duplicate. Olivia Jarvis hand set hundreds of acrylic diamonds of various sizes and cuts. Each position was chosen and planned with purpose.
Custom Acrylic Display Table
To exemplify the infinity well created by the scepter display required an appropriate and equally interesting platform. The custom acrylic table consists of a support cross section and 4 hollow acrylic legs. One of them, hiding the power cabling required to light up the display.
This structural design project was an exercise in physics and asthetics. The challenge was to create the maximum amount of strength with the minimum amount of visibility. Accurately placed acrylic L-brackets keep the display case from shifting and positions the full weight in the centre. Indentations in the cross section base and corresponding table top keep all 4 hollow legs in place. Two interlocking clear plates meet in the middle.
I am very proud of the team that helped to shape it. Next Gen (acrylic), D&G Trophies (Laser Engraving) and Structural Divine (Engineering & Structural Design). These groups worked in concert with one another to achieve a unique vessel worthy of what it displays. A personal thanks to Naush for supporting this project from start to finish.
Adam and Natalie Jarvis are a husband and wife team behind Juggernaut Illustration and Design Inc., (Toronto). Established in 1993, this boutique creative company remains both at the forefront of design and under the radar. Their bespoke services company transform client vision into reality.
So, what does this display box actually showcase?
Loki’s Scepter by Sprit Ironworks, NY.
D23 Showcase
Loki’s Scepter was also part of an exclusive showing at D23 (the Ultimate Disney Fan Event) in beautiful Anaheim, California. Click this link below to read more about the strategy, creativity and success of this incredible 3 day engagement at the Anaheim Convention Center. Click the bar below to see where the Loki Scepter story goes next…
Thank you to East Continental Gems
Thank you to Adam, Pace and Nitzan for an unforgettable experience. They understand the Juggernaut company motto: There is no half way to the top. This display is the one that all other Marvel displays will be measured by. Behold, the high score.
The team at ECG are gem experts and Marvel Fans. This partnership has energized a fan base and introduced a whole new audience to the enchanting world of natural gemstones. Follow East Continental Gems, they know the way.
Learn more about Loki’s Scepter and the Infinity Gem Collection here, at eastcontinentalgems.com:
