The countdown to the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration is under way! I have the scoop on all of the merchandise hitting stores in May 2015 at the Disneyland Resort. Here’s your first look at the dazzling new art that will appear on three celebration collections and more than 500 merchandise items, including apparel, accessories, headwear, home décor, souvenirs, toys, pins, D-Tech, collectibles and more.

When I think about a diamond, words like timeless, brilliant and eternal come to mind, which is exactly what our artists envisioned, too. Recently, I had the opportunity to chat with Disney Design Group Creative Manager Cody Reynolds about the 60th anniversary, their inspirations and what our Disney fans can expect to find.

The ‘Character’ collection focuses on the characters, attractions and the rich history of the resort. “The palette is retro in style but has a slightly modern twist,” said Cody. “We thought about diamonds as a precious heirloom that can be passed down through generations or can be a promise of a bright new future. We wanted the art to speak to the special moments and memories that our fans have shared over the years, but we also wanted to celebrate the bright, amazing future still ahead and the generations of guests that will continue to share in the experience.” Artist Tip: The art is a timeline with each panel representing a fifteen year span. It begins in black and white (a nod to when Disneyland was first introduced), and slowly transitions becoming more and more colorful with the inclusion of notable characters and icons that denote the timeframe and their debut.

The ‘Castle’ collection is quite dynamic and I think you’ll find the sparkling blue and silver hues almost hypnotizing. “We wanted to capture the heart of Disneyland and the love that so many people have for it,” said Cody. “Sleeping Beauty Castle to us is that heart. A centerpiece you can find day or night, glistening with magical diamond dust.” Accompanying this iconic symbol are none other than Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, who are as beloved and precious as any diamond you can find.

The ‘Diamond’ collection can be described in one word: stunning. The black, gray and silver tones are simple, classic and elegant. “We wanted to create a line based on the shape and qualities of an actual diamond, multi-faceted, unique and endlessly reflective,” says Cody, “it’s what Disneyland represents to so many of us. It gave our artists the opportunity to create rare and special pieces and provide something magical to our guests that we hope will last forever.”

As you can see, there are so many things to share with you and even more stories to tell. In the coming months you’ll get your first look at some of the amazing merchandise lined up for you, including cool must-have items that I can guarantee you won’t want to live without. Also keep an eye out for glimpses of rare, limited edition, high-end items that will make your jaws drop.

Join the countdown to this momentous occasion in Disney history with a special series of pins featuring memorable Walt Disney moments and quotes.

These pins will release each month, beginning January 31 through July 2015. Curious to see what’s inside these diamond shaped pins or when they will be released? Learn more here.

Are you excited to see more of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration merchandise headed your way?