touches EMINE ON RING TRENDS “Are you about to choose your wedding bands? Although there are always style trends and advice on metal choices, it’s important to remember that your wedding bands are about you and your partner, including your likes, feelings and life choices. However, it is also a minefield out there when it comes to finding the perfect wedding ring, so sometimes getting inspiration from current trends can help you narrow down the options. Some say matte finish wedding bands are ‘in’ this year – moving away from more traditional shiny wedding rings. Mixed metals, for example gold and silver, were quite popular in 2021, and it seems they will be on trend still. Whatever you choose, you’ll be wearing your wedding band every day, so it needs to be comfortable and practical, as well as symbolising your love for one another.” EMINE ON HER WORKSHOP “Did you know you can make your wedding bands yourselves? Both you and your partner can attend my Wedding Band Workshop, where you will handmake one another’s rings! The workshop is designed around you as a couple, with exclusive use of my fully-equipped studio for the day. You’ll be guided throughout all of the stages of making your rings, and no previous experience of jewellery-making or creativity is required. Starting from just £350, the workshop comes complete with a consultation plus a complimentary lunch at The Factory Kitchen in Newcastle.” For more information head over to https://silverkupe.com and click on ‘Wedding Ring Workshop’ THE HISTORY BEHIND WEARING A RING Busy looking for your perfect rings but don’t even know why you’re wearing them in the first place? Ruth Baxter from Hexham’s Sarah Hickey Jewellery reveals all… “Nothing beats the moment you hear those four little words, before you gaze upon the most beautiful engagement ring! But did you know how far back this tradition can be traced? Origins start with the Ancient Egyptians, who presented rings of carved serpents swallowing their tails, signifying eternity. Rings symbolising commitment, love and devotion can be followed throughout history, but it’s only in the 1400s that diamonds started to be incorporated. In the 1940s they became the most popular gemstone, with Hollywood A-listers promoting diamonds for De Beers. And, of course, Marilyn Monroe famously sang, Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend! Sparkling white diamonds are still popular, however there’s a growing demand for something a bit different – step in salt and pepper diamonds! Breathtakingly beautiful and with inclusions that appear both black and white, each is as unique as its wearer.” For more information head over to www.sarahhickey.co.uk You won’t forget the final details when it comes to your big day thanks to this stunning collection of jewellery and accessories MAKE YOUR OWN WEDDING RINGS! Newcastle based Silverkupe, owned by jewellery designer Emine Thompson, runs a Wedding Band Workshop. Here, Emine discusses ring trends, as well as why for her the personal touch is often best… FINISHING Emma Hedley Jewellery Radiance II Fairtrade White Gold and Diamonds, £8,150, www.emmahedley.com www.clairecollinsonphotography.co.uk Sarah Hickey Men’s Hammered Band 4mm in 9ct Yellow Gold, £390, www.sarahhickey.co.uk Sarah Hickey Salt and Pepper Long Hexagon Cut Diamond in 9ct Yellow Gold, £760, www.sarahhickey.co.uk Sarah Hickey Elara Interlocking Halo Salt and Pepper Diamond Set in 9ct Yellow Gold, £1750, www.sarahhickey.co.uk Emma Hedley Jewellery Bespoke Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Ring, from £1200, www.emmahedley.com Sarah Hickey Portia Montana Sapphire Trio Ring in 9ct Yellow Gold, £1,600, www.sarahhickey.co.uk Silverkupe Seed collection rings, £70 – £100, https://silverkupe.com www.marionbotella.com www.clairecollinsonphotography.co.uk JEWELLERY 73
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