Using Grandparent and Mother’s Diamonds to Create a Unique Engagement Ring
Re-use is arguably the most sustainable choice a person can make. Whether it’s selecting a vintage item from a charity shop or inheriting a piece of furniture, the circular economy principle is clear. While the diamond industry has invested heavily in ethical sourcing and sustainability, nothing quite rivals an heirloom diamond: these pre-existing stones inherently possess a lower carbon footprint than newly-mined or laboratory-grown alternatives.
Yet, the value of old jewellery extends far beyond its green credentials. As a Wimbledon-based jewellery designer-maker for over two decades, I have found the true beauty lies in the transformation—the process of making 'something new from old.' The opportunity to take a piece of family history, a token worn by a loved one, and reinterpret it for a new generation is a deeply emotional and rewarding experience.
This perfect marriage of sentiment and sustainability arrived in my workshop when my clients presented his mother’s ring. This unique piece contained his grandmother’s central diamond alongside two stones of his mother's. I was thrilled to be entrusted with the remodelling project, helping the bride and groom infuse their own style into a precious family treasure.
The mother’s platinum ring to be remodelled
The Brief: Putting Their Stamp on a New Engagement Ring Using Inherited Diamonds
His mother’s ring was a lovely, three-stone, claw-set platinum engagement ring. However, the angular design did not really resonate with the bride-to-be. She much preferred the warmth of yellow gold as the metal, instead of the cool platinum.
Their request was to maintain the original three-stone layout—keeping the line with the larger centre stone flanked by the two smaller ones—but to give it a completely new aesthetic.
The larger centre stone had belonged to his grandmother, with the two smaller diamonds later added for his mother’s engagement ring. As she was upgrading her own ring, she was delighted to pass this ring on, giving them full permission to remodel it and put their personal stamp on the design.
Modern but with sentiment gold engagement ring.
The Approach: Weaving History and Modernity into the Design
Part of creating a truly personal piece of bespoke jewellery is getting to know the client. I love hearing a couple’s love story, how they met, and what they share in common.
This couple met online during the pandemic and connected over their shared profession as academically trained historians. Although they wanted something modern yet soft, I knew their love of history would need to be subtly woven into the design.
I proposed a ring with the same stone layout as the original, but bezel-set to give a more contemporary and secure look, executed in the 18-carat yellow gold favoured by the bride.
After conducting some research at the V&A's jewellery gallery in London, I shaped the shank to feature a rounder, heavier base that tapers at the top—a design reminiscent of ancient Phoenician style.
I always recommend adding a small personal detail, such as hand-engraving inside the ring. When I proposed this, they suggested using a font similar to antique Poesy rings—an idea which I loved!
A shank inspired by Phoenician jewellery, starts heavy on the bottom and tapers up to the sides.
The Poesy Ring Detail
Poesy rings are historical rings popular between the 16th and 18th centuries, named for the short poems (poésie) engraved inside them. They were often used by lovers to communicate secret messages between the giver and the recipient.
In this ring, we decided on their initials separated by a small ruby. The red ruby symbolises love, and in this case, served as a small nod to her family, as both the bride’s mother and maternal grandmother have ruby engagement rings. I love how this small detail beautifully merged both families together.
Posey ring style hand engraving with a small ruby set inside rhe band.
The Result: A Testament to Family Union
Handing over a finished piece is always nerve-wracking, and in this case, there were two parties to please! But I was delighted to see how happy both the bride and groom were with the final ring.
This engagement ring is a true testament to family union. By incorporating inherited diamonds and a gemstone with ties to both families, the ring carries a deep and powerful layer of meaning.
“Thank you so much for your work on our beautiful engagement ring. It is exactly what we were hoping for!”
All boxed up and ready to go, the triple diamond gold engagement ring.
“It has been a treat to work with you. The ring is beautiful! We could not be more happy with it — a piece of art.”
Ready to transform your family's story into a stunning new piece? If you're thinking about remodelling your jewellery, please get in touch. My focus is on creating bespoke designs that reflect your personal style.
While my workshop is located in Wimbledon, South West London, I regularly work with clients virtually. I'm very flexible and can arrange a consultation via Zoom or Google Meet to discuss your heirloom pieces and begin the design journey. Contact me to start planning your custom creation.
Jewellery designer and maker, based in the Wimbledon, London, UK. Envisioning and hand crafting future heirlooms for 20 years.
