The mission for this custom design project, for our client Becky, was to take a number of birthstone keepsake jewelry pieces, and using the emeralds and gold, create a bold and timeless statement piece. The gold from various rings and earrings was mixed karat of 14k and above, and would create contrast with a stainless steel band. There were a variety of emeralds to work with – they were all close in size, and varied in color.
before
Becky described herself as having an asymmetric, architectural, and unadorned aesthetic. She loved our tension-set rings, but as emerald is too soft a stone to withstand the pressures of tension-setting, we devised a ring design to visually mimic the lines of a tension-setting while keeping the delicate emeralds protected. The recycled gold was used to create a raised channel to protect the emeralds, and hammer textured to add depth. We translated these lines onto an asymmetrical pair of earrings as well. Paired with contemporary stainless steel these birthstone mementos are refreshed to their status of cherished adornment.
after: emerald ~ channel-set in recycled gold and stainless steel
This piece will be on exhibit at The Green Show: Recycle, Repurpose, Reuse at the Epic Center . Kalamazoo, MI . September 9-30. Opening reception Friday, September 9th . 5:00-8:00p.
