RING STORIES #02: James Croft
RING STORIES #02: JAMES CROFT.
DIAMOND AND EMERALD TARGET RING, MOUNTED IN 18CT WHITE AND YELLOW GOLD
I was introduced to Bear by a very good friend. I had spoken to some other jewellers but as soon as I had spoken to Bear I knew it had to be her, she was so kind and calm and full of ideas. I first spoke to her in September 2020 when lockdown restrictions were slightly lighter. I had a rough idea of what I was trying to achieve and a few key elements that I wanted to incorporate but I came equipped with almost no knowledge of what the process entailed or what it took to create a ring. Bear was fantastic at explaining everything in detail (and in layman terms) and really helped draw concepts out of me which she later turned into the design.
As the process went on tighter lockdown restrictions took effect and Bear sourced stones for me and prepared everything so that we could meet and review everything all at once. Bear installed so much confidence in the process. The ring was a complete surprise (albeit an overdue one in my now fiancée’s opinion!). It was all done in secret and Bear was always very careful on when and how she would get in touch so not to raise awareness. I almost blew it all, with trying to work out the ring size but fortunately Bear had a masterful solution.
I could not have done this without Bear. Aside from not knowing where to start, I wanted a bespoke engagement ring that would suit my fiancée’s style and be truly special. Doing this through the lockdown period came with its own hurdles but having Bear at the helm allowed me to be a lot more relaxed as she was in control of everything. It was so amazing when I came to collect the ring, the first feeling was of huge relief as Bear had managed to pull off the whole thing and I collected the ring in the run up to Christmas as planned. I loved the ring as soon as I saw it and couldn’t believe what had been created, it really is a wonderful exhibition of craftsmanship and skill.
The proposal day was the most memorable and special day for both of us and the ring was definitely the star of the show! I proposed on a walk with no one around on the coast. I can remember the moment after my fiancée said yes and it was without doubt the best moment of my life. The joy (and relief) was incredible! The ring is so special to both of us and is truly unique. Bear helped create the most perfect design for us both, it has characteristics of both of us which we love and it encapsulates everything that we hold dear to us.
