True North

I was asked to design an engagement ring using Princess Elisabeth of Saxen-Coburg as inspiration. I could choose her fictional fiancé, which determined the final design. My choice went to the adventurous explorer Mike Horn, and my design is therefore a reference to a compass. Instead of the usual four cardinal directions, I chose to engrave the initials of the two fiancées in the ring, as a timeless symbol of love that will always lead them back to each other.

A challenging aspect of this project was to make the arrows of the ring rotate, just like a real compass. Therefore, the ring consists of three separate parts: the ring band, the compass and the central setting. A fine rod screws the setting into the ring band, allowing the compass part to rotate around this rod.
This project is a harmonious fusion of craftsmanship and modern 3D modelling techniques. The ring band and central setting were handcrafted, while the compass part was digitally designed. To finish the compass part nicely, I split it into four different parts, which can be seamlessly soldered back together thanks to strategically placed grooves.
As for gemstones, I chose a round citrine and four marquise-cut garnets, which together repeat the shape of the compass rose and complement the colours of the gold-plated ring.