When my friend Tam approached me about creating some jewellery for an upcoming big birthday, she knew she wanted something dramatic but practical, that she would wear everyday.
She was in the lucky position of owning some gold jewellery that had been given to her by family in Malaysia. It was precious but not to her taste. Having heard my repurposing stories she fancied using some of her gold to make new pieces of jewellery for herself.
Tam's family gold
She also had the happy situation of many family members and different groups of friends wanting to contribute to a birthday gift, lucky thing! So that was another consideration in how we approached this task.
The process
Nothing beats handling jewellery in person. We made sure that we met up early on in the process so that she could try everything on, mulling over each option. After discussing all possibilities, she settled on a mixed stack of six rings. This would provide with her the impact she was after, but also complete versatility; she could opt to wear them all together, separated out on different hands and fingers and in different combinations as the mood takes her.
With six rings she knew that one particular ring would be from her sister, another from her mum, another from her children, another from one group of friends, and another from a different set and so on. Each ring had its own meaning and sentiment, and together form the full dazzling composition that represents the significant people in her life.
The raw cast rings and Tam's new diamond
Salt and pepper diamond
Tam had had her eye on salt and pepper diamonds for some time. She liked their interesting flecks and imperfections that could be interpreted as different forms. I sourced a selection of salt and pepper diamonds for her to look at up close. This type of diamond can vary a lot, and in the end she opted for a square shape with plenty of interesting inclusions going on, which has a 70s feel to it. Viewed up close, the way the flecks or this particular stone are formed is reminiscent of a cherry blossom tree which appealed to her.
The finished rings
Tam and her stack!
These are her six stacking rings; two half parquets, a single square band, a double square band, a triangle wave and a parquet with the central salt and pepper diamond. It’s quite a sight isn’t it?
Tam's current favourite combination...
I caught up with Tam to ask about her rings. First of all, happy birthday Tam! Are you happy with your rings?
‘I am absolutely over the moon with my six stunning Jo rings. I’ve coveted all her jewellery for such a long time now. It’s been wonderful to take jewellery that had sentimental value but wasn’t quite my style and make something that I feel complements me. They feel totally me.
Jo was so kind and supportive in helping me choose my different designs even though I had a fairly clear idea of what I wanted she gave me nuanced advice about what would work best together. She made the whole experience very easy and I enjoyed every part of the process. I’m saving up for my next big birthday!’
Thanks very much Tam, I’m so pleased you’re enjoying wearing your new stack!