The Art of Metalwork as Shown by Maria Thompson.

Although tradition has dictated the need for a precious stone to be mounted on an engagement ring, many designers and consumers are rejecting this norm. The simple beauty found in the versatility and creative potential of metal has been embraced by designers such as Maria Thompson and has resulted in exquisitely beautiful and unique creations.

Pure and Simple Beauty

The elegant beauty of precious metals has made them a favourite medium of jewellery designers throughout the ages. From the Claddagh rings created in the 1700s to the iconic art deco Trinity ring by Cartier in the 1920s, the simple and sleek lines of metal rings have been cherished and hold great sentimental value. Today’s designers, such as Maria Thompson, are reintroducing the magnificent potential that this material holds and the true craftsmanship involved in manipulating it.

There are many causes attributed to the increased interest couples are taking in the idea of a completely metal engagement ring. The rise in popularity of vintage rings has certainly raised the public’s awareness of the value that intricate metal work and fine detailing can bring to a ring. One of signature features found on art deco engagement rings is the elaborate and delicate details of the band and the settings. Filigree, scrollwork and minute milgrain patterning were all popular at the time and raised the level of quality and beauty of the ring itself.

The Value of Originality

Couples and brides-to-be these days admit that one of their top priorities for an engagement ring is originality and uniqueness. In their pursuit of a one-of-a-kind ring many couples are choosing to commission a bespoke piece in the hope of having a completely personalised ring as well. The value of handcrafted and artistically made pieces has risen due to the fact that our society that is saturated with mass-produced items that are generally quite generic. The refreshingly original jewellery of designer-makers such as Maria Thompson has introduced the concept of alternative materials and mediums being used to create timelessly elegant pieces.

The designers who focus their skills on metalwork during the production of their fine jewellery are showing the world the highly-skilled artistic talent that is needed to manipulate this material. The results are sleek flowing lines of an almost organic nature that offer the optical illusion of seeming to have no end or beginning. The sentiment and symbolism of the delicate designs created with the strength associated with precious metals is perfect for any engagement ring.

For a hugely unique and striking engagement ring Maria Thompson has shown that it does not have to depend on the type of stone you choose. A finely worked and handcrafted metal ring with exquisite detailing could well turn more heads than even the biggest diamond.

Fank L Orman is the founder of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. Hosting designers like Maria Thompson and hundreds of articles on subjects ranging from princess cuts to engraved bands, we have ideas and opinions covering all the options. Offering advice, tips and suggestions on how to choose that perfect ring, F&L will accompany you on every stage of your search to find the right designer.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.