I first met Clementine a few years ago at the Goldsmiths’ Fair and have had the pleasure of making rings for her since. When she approached me about commissioning a new statement piece I jumped at the chance. Here’s her story.
‘When I first saw Jo’s work at Goldsmiths’ Fair back in 2017 I was drawn to the originality of her designs, the thought that goes into her work and the combination of strength and beauty.
I asked her to make rings for me to commemorate the birth of my children, so I have an aquamarine ring for my first son, and twin hex rings with grey and white diamonds for my second boy.
I had been thinking about commissioning a new piece for my 40th birthday. As a big Jo fan, a big fan of my birthday, and as someone who is enjoying getting older, it seemed the right moment to work on something very special.
Design considerations
The original shield ring viewed at Goldsmiths Fair
I didn’t have an exact vision for what I wanted, but when I visited Jo’s stand at Goldsmiths’ Fair in 2023 I tried on a couple of things, including a shield ring with needle baguette diamonds. After I left, I couldn’t stop thinking about the ring, which is always a good tell for me. I knew I wanted a ring with a centrepiece stone, so I suggested to Jo that we combine the two.
The design process
The tourmaline and diamonds for the new ring and drawing up the design...
I asked Jo to source some stones for me that we could look at. She found a huge array of options, different colours, sizes and cuts. However, quite early on in our stone choosing session, this beautiful green and clear tourmaline jumped out at me, and that was that. We did then play with the rest of the stones, and I now have a million ideas about my next project.
The new ring before setting the stones...
Working with Jo
One thing I’d like to mention is that Jo is very thoughtful about matching the stone to the client, and how they plan to wear the piece. So she always takes time to ask and to listen to how you wear your jewellery, and she’ll make recommendations that fit.
Jo Working on the project...
The finished ring
I am absolutely thrilled with the result. It’s spectacular.
I love how much of a statement it is, but also how many fine details it has, and how it changes in the light, which is a trademark of Jo’s work. It’s a reminder of 40 years of life, and all the beautiful, complicated things about that.
I can’t wait for my 50th. Or whatever the next time is. Thank you’
Thank you very much Clementine, I am so pleased you love your new statement ring!