Freedom Ring: A culturally-inspired smart jewelry for Iranian women

Smart jewelry offers a promising intersection of cultural expression and utility. This study examines how a culturally sensitive, user-informed design can meet psychological and practical needs of Iranian women through the Freedom Ring, a modular form usable as both a ring and pendant, inspired by Tehran’s Azadi Tower and equipped with a passive NFC module for contactless payments.Using a mixed-methods design studio approach, the research integrates (a) a literature review on adornment, consumer psychology, and wearable adoption; (b) a survey of Iranian women (N = 100) on preferences for materials, styles, and smart features; and (c) iterative digital prototyping (Rhinoceros 3D modeling and renders) guided by studio critiques. Results show preference for precious materials (notably white gold), hybrid traditional–modern aesthetics, and discreet functionality. Respondents ranked personal taste, style, and convenience above brand or investment value.Mapping attributes to the Kano model indicates that comfort, durability, and reliable payment are basic qualities. Since no physical prototypes or payment trials were built, NFC integration is presented conceptually. Aesthetic refinement and convenience are performance qualities, while cultural symbolism, modular conversion, and discreet tech are attractive qualities. The concept shows how calm technology and cultural semiotics can combine to deliver empowerment, both functional (frictionless transactions) and psychological (identity expression, confidence).This paper contributes by: (1) offering a user-grounded framework for contextualized wearables; (2) applying Kano analysis to smart jewelry; and (3) presenting a transferable studio-based method for bridging craft heritage and digital features. Implications include localized innovation, interdisciplinary R&D, and ethically responsible feature selection.