This is the second design I had the privilege to do for this client. She is a funny, vivacious person with a keen sense of humor. She moved out of the area but when visiting she made a special trip to see me. She had a general idea that she wanted something to memorialize her marriage with some of the remaining stones that were left from the redesign of her wedding set. As we were chatting and catching up on life I asked her how they first met. She had quite the funny story to share. At the end of their first time meeting, sparks were flying and he asked for her phone number. She did not have a piece of paper (as this was before cell phones existed). He pulled a $5 bill out of his pocket and they giggled as she jotted down her number on there. That is where the magic began, a moment they think back on fondly. After hearing this, I suggested that we use the corner of the five dollar bill, duplicate the pattern and incorporate the number five on a sterling silver dog tag. The five is highlighted in 14k yellow gold and the smaller stars feature full-cut diamonds set in beads and bright cuts to mimic the stars. The bail feeds thru the tag and also has the bill’s pattern engraved on it. The challenge here was determining how to replicate the pattern as the ink does not print – understandable, though as it’s a measure to help prevent counterfeits. As a workaround, using a negative process and laser engraver, the edge of the bill was replicated. After that the 14k yellow gold plate was engraved and cut out to fit onto the tag. The diamonds were set as stars on the bill. And for an extra special touch we added engraving: “11-29-1985” to commemorate the day they met. This is truly a one of a kind piece: sentimental, romantic. And forget $5… this necklace and the memory it represents is priceless!
- Materials: Sterling silver, 14k yellow gold, natural diamonds
- Client location: Mystic, CT and Norwell, MA
