Seems a long time ago now, but half way through January, the biting cold came to visit bringing temperatures of -6 degrees to Canterbury. Our windows misted up, but we cleared them and carried on. The skies were either heavy with snow or bright blue and sun kissed. Then we saw some brighter skies and were blessed with daffodils, snowdrops and crocuses – a real feel of spring. And, Dash was happier to be out walking in the sun. Valentine’s Day and Shrove Tuesday came and went with a flutter of love hearts and lemon drizzled pancakes, and before we knew it March was upon us and Easter. Weather warnings of snow threatened us again but Spring persevered and the flowers begin to bloom. And now, before we knew it – the Summer Solstice!!
We have been so busy in the workshop (as per usual) and have been creating some very beautiful Mokume Gane wedding bands and have taken orders for many more; 18ct Red Gold, Palladium 500 and high Palladium Silver has been a very popular combination. The stunning combinations of fused metals is always an intense and nail biting process – if the billet fails and starts to de-laminate at any time, it’s back to the refiners to have the metals processed and separated, then we have to start all over again with a fresh batch of metal plates – time consuming and expensive, but thankfully Andre knows what he’s doing!
We have also had the pleasure of creating some unique eternity rings; a memorial locket; signet rings and – one of our favourites – re-working some rather lovely vintage and heirloom pieces of jewellery.
There are plenty of orders and repairs in the workshop to keep Andre busy and, with only him at the bench our lead times are little a longer. As always, your patience is very much appreciated – the price of perfection I’m afraid is a longer turnaround time – sorry. I can assure you the final products are worth the wait. His eye is impeccable, and nothing leaves his bench unless it is perfect – how else would you want it?
We very much look forward to welcoming you in to the store soon.
Best wishes
André & Rose