Francisca was commissioned to create a medal by international model and UN Goodwill Ambassador Marjorie Andrade, to be presented to H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco during the 2008 Princess Grace Awards Gala.

“The Princess Grace Foundation - USA is dedicated to identifying and assisting young talent in theater, dance, and film by awarding grants in the form of scholarships, apprenticeships, and fellowships.

Each year, the foundation announces a select group of Princess Grace Awards for distinction in the areas of theater, dance, and film.” This year the awards will be presented on Wednesday, October 15th, 2008 at Cipriani 42nd Street in NY City, in the presence of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, with a silent auction, dinner and dance.

The “Unity Medal” was completely handmade in 18kt gold by Francisca herself, it symbolizes a bridge between Monaco and Brazil, connected by their love towards the preservation of nature, representing Brazil’s Pao de Acucar(Sugarloaf Mountain), which is a natural wonder of the world, along with a ballerina and crown symbolizing the arts and Princess Grace’s foundation, connected by emerald and ruby butterflies which represent Brazil’s flag and forests as well as Monaco’s Coat of Arms.

Francisca Bastos was chosen to commission this work for her long trajectory as a jewelry artist, with more than 20 years of experience and a DeBeers Awards finalist amongst other. With a background and degree in Architecture from the Santa Ursula University’s School of Architecture, Francisca went on to Jewelry Design by enrolling in advanced design courses and earning a post-graduate degree in Jewelry Design in PUC-Rio.

Her contemporary designs are characterized by the use of an array of Brazilian precious and semi-precious stones, carefully selected by the designer herself, mainly in 18kt gold. Francisca’s jewelry is featured in prestigious fashion editorials, including Vogue, Novias, Estilo, and Caderno Ela.

As an artist, her pieces have been shown at Liberty in London, Birks in Toronto, Miami Fashion Week as well as Printemps in Paris. In 2005, Francisca Bastos established a showroom in Monaco, and in 2007 entered the United States with a showroom in Bal Harbour, FL. Francisca Bastos exclusive designs are currently sold online at MocaShop and Francisca Bastos Design.