Nude Contemporary Jewellery Blog

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  1. How to commission a bespoke piece of jewellery

     
    How to commission a piece of jewellery - CAD image
     

    If you are unsure of the exact design you would like we can talk you through some ideas and show you examples of previous work that has been custom-made. This initial consultation is a chance for you to get to know us and tell us what you are looking for. We work using traditional methods and tools from our workshop but for more complex designs we can also offer professional CAD imaging.

    engagement ring rough sketches

    Hand Drawn Sketches

    We can create sketches for you during a meeting and work on the bespoke jewellery design together. We can also work through your design ideas through email, or you can call us and discuss it over the phone. We communicate with you on every aspect of the bespoke jewellery process and you can have as much input as you wish from the initial consultation through to gemstone selection. We want you to be involved in creating an individual, unique jewellery piece to suit your needs and budget.

    Computer aided design - engagement ring

    Computer Imaging

    For some of the more complex designs the next stage would be to create computer images. Designed in 3D, you will have the ability to view the piece from all angles and it will give you a clear idea of what it will look like. It is easy to email this image to you for approval and any changes that you would like to make can be applied to the design and then sent back to you until you are completely satisfied.

    The Finished Piece

    Once the design has been finalised the hard work can really begin. Your bespoke engagement ring will have any gemstones or diamonds set, the piece will then be polished and hallmarked before being beautifully presented in a bespoke Nude Jewellery ring box.All our jewellery at Nude Jewellery is handmade by craftsmanship of the highest standards. As ever you can be assured that all diamonds sold at Nude are conflict free and will always be so.

    Why Choose Us?

    Nikki Galloway, owner of Nude Jewellery is a qualified Jewellery Designer/Maker, she holds a BA (Hons) degree in jewellery design from Central St. Martins and an HND from Kent Institute of Art and Design. Nikki has worked on commissions for the Sultan of Brunei, she was a British Finalist at the Ayrton Metals Platinum Awards, she has acted as a guest lecturer at Central St. Martins and frequently creates bespoke pieces for clients all over the world. Having been established in for over eighteen years, she has made hundreds of bespoke jewellery pieces.

    Contact Us For More Info [email protected]
     
     
  2. As a jewellery enthusiast, I cannot help but admire the elegance and beauty of the Toi Et Moi style engagement ring. This unique design, which originated in France, is a testament to the beauty of partnership, symbolising the union of two souls becoming one with each soul represented by a diamond or gemstone. In this article, I will be exploring the history, meaning, design, and features of the Toi Et Moi style engagement ring, as well as famous examples and how to choose the perfect ring for your loved one.

     entwined toi et moi blog image a

    Introduction to the Toi Et Moi Style Engagement Ring

    The Toi Et Moi style engagement ring is a ring with two stones, typically diamonds or gemstones, placed side by side. The design is unique in that it symbolises two individuals coming together as one, with each stone representing a soul. The name "Toi Et Moi" means "you and me" in French, which perfectly captures the essence of this ring style.

     History of the Toi Et Moi Style Engagement Ring

    The Toi Et Moi style engagement ring has a rich history that dates back to the late 18th century. The design gained much attention in 1796 when Napoleon Bonaparte gifted his wife Josephine de Beauharnais a pear-shaped sapphire and diamond Toi Et Moi ring. The ring was designed to symbolise the Emperor and Empress's union, with each stone representing their individuality.

    entwined toi et moi blog image sapphire, diamond and gold b

    The design became popular in France during the Belle Époque period, which lasted from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. It was during this time that the Toi Et Moi style engagement ring became a symbol of romance and love. Many couples chose this design to symbolise their partnership and commitment to each other.

     Meaning behind the Toi Et Moi Style Engagement Ring

    The Toi Et Moi style engagement ring symbolises love and partnership, with each stone representing a soul. The design represents the idea that two individuals can come together and become one, while still maintaining their unique identities. The ring is a beautiful representation of the bond between two people and the commitment they have to each other.

    Design and Features of the Toi Et Moi Style Engagement Ring

    The Toi Et Moi style engagement ring is designed with two stones placed side by side. The stones can be the same size, or one can be larger than the other. The stones are usually diamonds, but can also be gemstones such as sapphires, rubies, or emeralds.

    The band of the ring can be made of various metals such as gold, platinum, or white gold. The setting can also vary, with popular options being prong, bezel, or halo settings. The design is elegant and timeless, making it a popular choice for engagement rings.

    Famous You And Me Style Commitment Rings

    The Toi Et Moi style engagement ring has gained popularity over the years and has been worn by many famous individuals. One famous example is the ring worn by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, which featured an emerald and diamond design. Other famous examples include the ring worn by Grace Kelly, which featured a ruby and diamond design, and the ring worn by Elizabeth Taylor, which featured a pear-shaped diamond and emerald design and more recently popularity has soared again with Emily Ratajkowski, Ariana Grande and Megan Fox all wearing this style of engagement ring.

    jackie-kennedy-engagement-ring

    You And Me Engagement Ring Style vs Traditional Engagement Ring

    The Toi Et Moi style engagement ring differs from traditional engagement rings in its design and symbolism. Traditional engagement rings typically feature a single stone, usually a diamond, with the band made of a precious metal. The Toi Et Moi style engagement ring, on the other hand, features two stones that symbolise the union of two individuals.

    The ring's unique design sets it apart from traditional engagement rings and makes it a popular choice for couples looking for something unique and meaningful. The Toi Et Moi style engagement ring allows couples to express their love and commitment to each other in a beautiful and timeless way.

    Emily Ratajkowski engagement ring

     Choosing the Perfect Toi Et Moi Style Engagement Ring

    When choosing a Toi Et Moi style engagement ring, there are several factors to consider. The first is the type of stone you want to use. Diamonds are the most popular choice, but other gemstones can also be used to create a unique and personalised design.

    The second factor to consider is the size and shape of the stones. The stones can be the same size and shape, or one can be larger than the other. The shape of the stones can also vary, with popular options being pear, oval, or round.

    Finally, you will need to consider the band and setting of the ring. The band can be made of various metals, and the setting can vary depending on your preference. It is essential to choose a band and setting that complement the stones and create a cohesive design.

    The Toi Et Moi style engagement ring is a beautiful and meaningful way to symbolise your love and partnership. Its unique design and rich history make it a popular choice for couples looking for something different from traditional engagement rings. When choosing a Toi Et Moi style engagement ring, it is essential to consider the type of stone, size and shape of the stones, and the band and setting of the ring. With careful consideration, you can choose the perfect ring to symbolise your love and commitment to each other.

    If you are looking for a unique and specific design please get in touch to discus you ideas. [email protected]

    entwined toi et moi blog image purple, pink and gold b

  3. Birthstone - February - Amethyst

    Briolette gemstone and diamond, 18 carat white gold earrings

    Mohs scale of hardness - 7

    Colour - Varies from deep purple to light violet

    Cut - As cabochons or as faceted gemstones

    Found - as large single crystals in deposits in Brazil, Bolivia, Sri Lanka

    Care Tip - Amethyst shouldn't be left out in strong light as this may cause it to fade

    amethyst rivda ed

    Amethyst is the birthstone for February it is also the gem for the 6th & 17th wedding anniversaries.

    Early Greek legends associated amethyst with the god of wine Bacchus because of its colour. The Greek word amethystos can be translated as “not drunken” or “not intoxicated” it was believed to prevent drunkenness, to help you keep a clear head and so wine goblets were often carved from it.

    Bi colour amethyst

    In antiquity the most valued gemstones were known as The Cardinal Gems, they included the expected and most coveted gems that we associate with precious such as diamond, emerald, ruby, sapphire and during these times also amethyst. They were valued for their rarity, religious authority and magical powers and considered a symbol of royalty where it was used to embellish English regalia until the 19th Century. Then in the 1800's extensive deposits of the gemstone were discovered in South America making amethysts less rare and therefore less expensive and valued.

    amethyst and diamond earrings ed

    Amethysts form in long prismatic crystals in geodes or hollow rocks. These geodes form when there are cavities in volcanic rock. As the rock cools the mineral saturated water, gases and volcanic material distil and crystallise. When these crystals harden, they form amethyst. Amethyst occurs in primary hues from a light lavender or pale violet to a deep purple and can exhibit one or both secondary hues of red and blue. Green quartz is sometimes incorrectly called green amethyst, its correct name is Prasolite.

    Amethyst has a good hardness and handling it with proper care will prevent damage to the stone. Amethyst is sensitive is to strong heat and may lose or change colour when exposed to prolonged heat or light.

    Click here to view all of our amethyst jewellery