We're always interested to see creative types exploring the culture of objects; taking an oblique look at the physical manifestations of our society.

NYC based artist Justin Gignac is attempting to do just that with his newly released "Security!" pins. Best know for the Need (and Wants) for Sale collections, Gignac has teamed up with jewellery designer Max Steiner to create this 18k gold-plated "opulent interpretation of the shoplifter's worst enemy".

Much of Gignac's work celebrates the banality of such objects; elevating them momemtarily from their lowly positions (see for example his quite genius "NYC Garbage")—but one has to wonder whether such sumptuousness is the only way to go about this: "[the security tag] is one of those things that I've ignored for years. What better way to call attention to it than make it gold and throw some diamonds on it"

slap these things on a few rappers and consider shoplifting duly glamourised!

"Security!" pins are now available for sale from NY retailers Reed Space and Poundcake—as well as the dedicated e-store. A veritable steal at $700 a piece—$550 if your willing to forgo the point diamonds.

(via Cool Hunting)