Just a week after the global launch of the iPhone Air, the tech and luxury collecting world witnessed the unveiling of the iPhone Air Aurora EMERALD—the world’s first iPhone Air plated in emerald green. Crafted by Vietnamese artisan Thang Eric and G’Ace International, this masterpiece marks a new milestone in luxury phone customization.
This achievement highlights Vietnam’s growing presence in the global luxury phone customization market, as local artisans continue to make their mark shortly after each Apple release.
According to G’Ace, the iPhone Air Aurora EMERALD required 94 hours of continuous craftsmanship, starting with a Sky Blue 512GB iPhone Air. The process demanded precision, from disassembling the device—a two-hour task to preserve its ultra-thin structure—to 56 hours of 3D scanning and CNC machining for each component.
The camera module underwent six hours of engraving and 12 hours of hand polishing to achieve a mirror-like finish, contrasting beautifully with the emerald green plating.
The standout feature is the DLC Emerald Green coating, a proprietary finish developed by G’Ace over two years. This coating not only exudes luxury but also shifts hues depending on light and angle, creating a multi-dimensional visual effect reminiscent of a gemstone.
Details like the logo, camera ring, and buttons are accented with 24K gold, creating a striking contrast between golden hues and emerald green for a harmonious, luxurious finish.
Part of the limited Aurora collection of 499 units globally, the iPhone Air Aurora EMERALD is numbered 379/499. The Emerald Mix Classic Gold variant, combining emerald green with 24K gold accents, is priced at $8,800, while the pure Emerald version is available for $7,900.
Buyers can personalize their device with options like a stainless steel Apple logo, Mediterranean mother-of-pearl, or solid gold accents, as well as custom engravings, blending technology with personal jewelry.
The iPhone Air Aurora EMERALD marks Thang Eric’s second notable achievement in a week, following the rapid customization of the iPhone 17 Pro Max MONARCH, completed in just 33 hours after its global release.
Limited to 199 units globally, the iPhone 17 Pro Max MONARCH features a polished aluminum frame plated in 18K rose gold, a stainless steel back, and Grade 5 titanium camera ring. Physical buttons can be customized with diamonds, showcasing a significant leap from the 2024 iPhone 16 Pro Max customization, which took seven days.
These back-to-back bespoke creations underscore Vietnam’s dynamic growth in luxury phone customization. By blending high-end craftsmanship with rapid innovation, Vietnamese artisans are not only keeping pace with Apple’s releases but also redefining luxury tech as unique, personalized art.
The swift introduction of the iPhone Air Aurora EMERALD and iPhone 17 Pro Max MONARCH reflects both the vibrancy of the luxury market and Vietnamese creativity. In an era of mass production, these bespoke devices cater to collectors and users seeking one-of-a-kind tech that merges artistry with individuality.
