After a relaxing break and a good spring clean, we returned to our benches in January refreshed and full of creativity and ideas for new designs.
Sara was inspired to begin work on a unique engagement ring, ready for Valentine’s Day.
The ring is handmade from 18 carat, Red Fairtrade Gold; mined by small-scale mining co-operations mainly in Peru. Given the limited amount that is available, we believe using certified Fairtrade Gold makes an already special piece exceptional.
Sara made the simple collet for the stone and the fine and elegant shank, (the actual ring-part) and assembled the two ready for mounting a stone.
The key decision was selecting the right precious stone, not only to accentuate the design, but also to remain true to the ethical integrity and provenance of the piece.
Sara chose an untreated Brazilian Emerald, which wonderfully compliments the Fairtrade Red Gold. An untreated Emerald is one that hasn’t been heated or treated with chemicals, so the colour of the stone is completely authentic.
By incorporating leaf shaped openings into the setting, Sara has also added an extra dimension to the ring, showing off the Emerald’s vivid beauty of glowing green.
As Sara wanted the design to be very subtle she gave the band a fine texture, keeping the ring delicate and gentle to emphasise the striking elegance of the emerald.
The pierced and engraved details on the setting as well as the shoulders give the ring an additional feel of classic vintage delicacy.
Through its material provenance and ethical integrity, this one of a kind ring has become even more unique.
