We have known each other since kindergarten, so there is a lifetime of history between us. Today, she lives in Montana and I am here in Connecticut, but thousands of miles and decades of life have never diminished that connection. When she reached out about creating something together, I was thrilled to be part of it. The process began with a package of jewelry she was no longer wearing for a variety of reasons. From there came sketches, ideas, and experimentation. I removed the diamonds from their original settings so I could work with them individually, exploring different arrangements and even using silver models to help determine the direction of the final piece. What made this project especially meaningful was that the finished ring became a collaboration between my father and me. That makes this piece bittersweet, deeply personal, and filled with love on more than one level. I chose a two-tone design as a reflection of friendship, time, and the different chapters of our lives. The combination of silver and gold tones felt particularly fitting for two old friends who have shared so much history. Her personal style is clean and understated rather than ornate, and the design needed to reflect that. Five diamonds from several of the pieces she sent were incorporated into the new ring, each secured in a bezel setting. The bezels create a streamlined, contemporary appearance while also subtly echoing the design of her wedding set. At this point in both of our lives, we have come to appreciate that sometimes less truly is more. I think this ring captures that beautifully. Simple and unfussy, yet filled with layers of meaning that aren’t immediately visible. It brings together stones from her past, a friendship that began in childhood, and a design created by two generations of my own family. And the note I received after the ring arrived? That pretty much said it all.
Kind Words: “Omg the ring is so gorgeous- I’m weepy! I think that the circle pin with ”D” was a Fil piece. My mom loved her special relationship with him! The sentimental value of course is priceless. Thanks again with all my heart and for your note. My heart is bursting!”
- Materials: 14k yellow gold, 14k white gold, natural diamonds
- Client location: Billings, Montana
