Story of a Bespoke Ring
Have you ever had a gift made just for you? I hadn't - until my 40th birthday, three years ago. I'm finally sharing a little bit about a special ring I made for myself, commissioned by friends and family to commemorate my birthday.
I've made a few pieces to mark an occasion by now, it is always a privilege, sometimes a challenge (always welcome!), often a surprise for the intended. I was surprised beyond belief to receive, for my 40th birthday, the funds to buy a stone and metal to make myself a ring. This was a logistical miracle achieved by close family and friends, and was presented to me at a time that we couldn't have a big party as Covid was still prevalent. I don't want to sound flippant about this time as it affected all of us profoundly and we respected the need for distance. But at a time that was difficult, this show of love and trust in me and my work was very touching.
It took me until my 41st year to finish it! I had to do test pieces, and it was important to me to find an ethical stone that was fully traceable. Of course I used 100% recycled 18k gold, as I do with all my work.
I got there in the end and I'm glad to say the ring I made is a statement while still being great for regular wear. I wear it everyday and every time I put it on I am reminded of the people in my life who care about me.
This is the power of jewellery - it is something that becomes embedded in our lives and connects us to people. I just wanted to share my own experience of this, thank you for humouring me!
I must add that I also got an amazing bespoke jacket made by the talented Annalisa Middleton the same year. She is an award winning embroidery and textile artist who I'm lucky enough to have as a friend. She embroidered a bespoke Siren emblem which she then added to a one-off bomber jacket. The symbolism and quality is unmatched, but that's a story for another day...
Image Credits with thanks to: