Symmetry!
Our brains are remarkable instruments. We may not have a conscious awareness of precisely what is “wrong” when we see something out of place but we know something is.
In this piece I have juxtaposed the asymmetry of the ring with the impeccable symmetry of the gem. Cut by renowned lapidary Wobito gems this Morganite is the very definition of symmetry.
How does this juxtaposition make you feel? Would you have felt differently had I not mentioned it?
Can you tell which of these pieces was made c1920?
I sold one of these pieces a while back. It was part of a vintage collection we hosted and was made in the 1920’s. Platinum and diamond.
I designed and made the other piece recently to complete the “set”. We even procured and had the diamond(s) re-cut to match the transitional European cut of the original piece.
Can you guess which one is which?
“He who aims at nothing hits it with remarkable accuracy” - Michael Lee-Chin
I made this set (belt buckle and cufflinks) years ago. Around the same time I first heard the above quote. Hand made in sterling silver they were set with working compasses.
I am currently navigating my way through a transition and was struck by how this image caught me off guard. Back when I made this set my path forward seemed so clear. Now, I know very clearly where I want to go … but, I am struggling to understand how to get there from here. However, And yet, I know that it is not the getting there that matters. It is who we become in trying to get there that really counts.
Yellow gold and a unique pink tourmaline. A warm pink colour with a touch of a very slightly orange shade of yellow. Yellow gold was chosen to complement and highlight this unique feature … I think it worked fabulously well.
The new owner? I was commissioned to create this piece by a dynamic and stylish woman with a flair for the dramatic and an outrageous sense of humour. Thank you Susan!
This is a rectangular, emerald cut, pink tourmaline set in a white gold ring with princes cut diamonds on the shoulders. I was commissioned, by the parents of a fabulous young lady, to make this ring as a graduation gift for their princess.
Curious about the cut of the centre stone? We call it “emerald cut” because this style of cutting was developed for emeralds. Emeralds are rather fragile. During setting it is easy to chip, crack, or completely break a corner.
Remember the K.I.S.S. principle? Keep It Simple Stupid! That’s what happened here. In order to eliminate the risk of breaking a corner when setting a square or rectangular emerald … gem cutters simply removed the corners and the emerald cut was born!
Ever Heard of Morganite?
It’s actually composed of the same mineral as emerald … and aquamarine!
I made this ring a while back as an anniversary gift for a very special Lady. White gold, morganite and pave diamond.
Click this link to learn more about morganite:
http://www.agta.org/gemstones/variation-morganite.html
Naturally Inspired!
In addition to my own creations I have the good fortune, and great pleasure, of carrying the work of a small number of notable Canadian jewellery artists.
I will be featuring one of these artists now and again so stay tuned to learn more!
Today I am featuring the work of renowned Canadian goldsmith Karl Vigelius. Karl has an extensive background in the jewellery industry and actually trained in Germany where he achieved the status of Master Goldsmith.
Much of his work is inspired by the natural world. A good deal of his crerations are partly narrative and are often representative of a historical event, story, or lesson of great importance.
Thank you Karl for your creativity, wisdom, faith, and cooperation. I am sincerely grateful for your participation and support.
Cufflinks!
I made these gothic inspired cufflinks with a pivot at the ruby so the lower portion actually dangles from the cuff.
They were made for an edgy, dynamic, and focused kindred spirit of mine. He introduced me to The Edwardian Ball and I introduced him to the idea of using ruby cabochons to look like tiny drops of blood.
Wait until you see the suture ring we are working on. And the collection of wee beastie brooches!
Have you ever heard of Alexandrite?
Believe it or not these two images are of one ring! The same gemstone! It’s a colour change gem and is among the most rare of gems on earth!
The most remarkable quality of Alexandrite is this colour change property. And, you are in luck. You are looking at an extremely fine example of Alexandrite due to it’s pronounced colour change and strong colour.
This ring was designed and made for the wife of one of our private clients as a birthday gift. Alexandrite also happens to be the birthstone for the month of June.
Remarkable isn’t it?
One of the most unique features of Francois and Jennifer’s ring … the ruby set inside the ring just beneath the diamond.
Why ruby? It is believed to promote, deepen, and strengthen love. These effects are even more powerful when the gem makes contact with the skin.
I did this upon their request but loved the idea so much I had to share it with you.
Congratulations to Francois and Jennifer on their engagement!
A perfect match!
The first couple to enjoy my illustration so much they asked to have it framed. Thanks so much guys! It was a pleasure and honour assisting you with your ring.
Facebook Fan Page Launch!
The cat is out of the bag part II.
I recently completed this white gold, hand engraved, custom cut purple sapphire ring for a fabulous couple Tom & Sarah.
You may notice the thier birth stones, topaz and aquamarine, set inside the ring shank where they will always be in contact with Sarah’s skin.
Best wishes for a lifetime of happiness and joy together! It was an honour to be a part of such a special occasion in your lives. Thank you!
Now and again I get to make something really amazing! Like this citrine and diamond dragonfly ring for example.