Custom Cut, group exhibition at Arbor, Melbourne, 2016

Turmali Talisman ring
18ct yellow gold set with a modified rectangle cushion cut green tourmaline

Radiance ring
18ct yellow gold and champagne diamonds

Tourmaline has been used throughout time as a tool to bring insight, grant enlightenment and reconcile opposites. More recently, the stone has been used by indigenous tribes in Africa, America and Australia as a talisman that protects against all dangers. It is found in most colours of the rainbow, and thus has been continuously confused with similar gemstones over the centuries.

I chose to explore the notion of modern-day talismans and reimagined the jewellery of ancient civilisations. Rich, warming gold was the obvious choice for pairing with this vibrant green tourmaline, in a textured setting with wrapped shoulder details which references similar styles used across many civilisations.

Designed as an archaic artefact, it appears as if plucked from the tomb of a regal ruler.

I designed a partner ring to sit behind the tourmaline and frame it in a vibrant burst of sunlight. A textured pattern of rays leads the eye up to a sprinkling of diamonds, which complete the sunny burst and reference ancient Sun worship; highlighting it's believed protective powers and bestowing its wearer with ‘enlightenment’.