Promotional feature: Artisan jeweller Aneata Boote describes the processes involved in turning an inherited diamond and sapphire ring into a new, bespoke ring
The ring started off as an old diamond and sapphire ring. The stones were left in their mounts, and the shank removed. The mounts were cut down to produce a more contemporary flush finish to your new ring.
9ct white gold was rolled through a rolling mill, annealing regularly to soften the metal. Annealing is the method of heating metal to a cherry red heat and quenching, or cooling, quickly - just like a blacksmith does. This process relaxes the metal. The metal is rolled until the correct dimensions are reached.
The next job was to cut and shape the gold. The shank was forged into its round shape, annealing regularly. The ends were mitred and the mount was checked for fit. The shank and mount were soldered together at this point
A build up of copper oxides causes the piece to blacken in areas. This is removed by soaking in a warm acid bath.
Following over an hour of sanding and polishing, using various grade of sanding paper and polishing compounds, the ring is ready for Hallmarking at Birmingham Assay Office.
Once it has been hallmarked and assayed, it has one final polish. After a thorough clean, the ring is finally ready to enjoy.
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For more information about Aneata Boote, visit her website: www.aneataboote-design.co.uk/#/about/4559752632
