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The Heroes of Halos  - 4 designers take flight.

8/7/2020

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How to Pick a Halo Engagement Ring! A quick guide by Little Bird Engagement Ring Consultants, www.littlebirdtolyou.com

THE HALO is being updated, re-imagined and taken in unexpected directions by today's cutting-edge creative wonders.

The term "halo" has become a bit overused lately.  Also, it entirely fails to capture the creativity that is possible in this tiny space. "Halo" evokes roundness and shine. We think the term "Framing" is more specific to this design element. It leaves room for flexibility, asymmetry, geometry and playfulness - all things we want to see more of. 

Jewelers are known for their craftsmanship and precision, but they are rarely seen as sculptors and poets. Let’s take this opportunity to give a few exceptional designers the attention their creations deserve. If you would like to design your own halo ring, drop us a line!

Enjoy.
- The Little Birds

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"Thea is also inspired by the sun itself and also the word “sun,” as it reflects my mother’s Korean name, “Pok Sun” and the golden color of her favorite flower, the sunflower. The four diamond-trio clusters also have significance, as the number 4 has myriad personal meanings for people—the four points of a compass, the four seasons, and four earthly elements, for example. And finally, the finish of the ring is very special to me, as it’s soft, but not quite matte. There is a very subtle shine to it that reminds me of my favorite time of day, dusk in the summer, when the sun has almost set but still shimmers in the distance. " -Erika Winters




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Erika Winters- Thea Halo Setting
The loveliness of this ring comes from a balance between detail and negative space. As usual, Erika has chosen a stunning European Cut diamond, but she has framed it with two pools of swooping matte gold, delicately milgrained, and studded with clustered accent diamonds at the compass points. The design hovers between worlds; modern yet antique, delicate yet linear, simple yet abundant. We asked her what inspired such a ring…

"I love how contemporary jewelry draws from ancient aesthetics, so I developed Thea to translate old forms into a 21st century design. And there is another layer with Thea, in that she is set with an old European cut diamond that could easily have been cut in the early 20th century—or during the late Victorian period, when many classical designs were revived. "

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Todd Reed - Cognac Diamond Ring with Cubic Diamond Halo
Check out this amazing creation by Todd Reed. His use of a cognac rose cut diamond with a halo and band of rough diamond cubes is just stunning - even to seasoned diamond-watchers like ourselves. We asked him for his perspective on the halo...

 "It’s my belief that the halo setting really defines the concept of Infinity. It’s a continuous circle running around and around symbolizing eternity and infinite love. Not one type of diamond means any one thing to me; ultimately they become a tone. Sometimes I’ll use raw diamonds to achieve a chiseled Halo setting which creates elegant lines around the center stone. Other times I’ll use brilliant diamonds in asymmetrical Halos to create smoothness, especially when used around rough diamonds. Colors, shapes and size play a big role in each of my designs, but above all, the elements I use in my jewelry must be intentional." - Todd Reed 

This just in:  Todd Reed's halo ring was  named one of the Top 40 Fabulous Engagement Rings by InStyle Magazine.

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Digby & Iona - Raziel Ring
This ring is a perfect example of genius breaking all the rules. Not only does it feature an upside down, black princess cut diamond, but it also has a square half-frame set with ombre diamonds. The effect is so novel and perfectly executed it stopped us in our tracks. Now honestly, does the term Halo really do this work of art justice?  From the artist himself: 

"The Raziel design began with the diamond, a black princess cut especially this large is a very unusual diamond in an engagement band and I wanted to create the strongest possible home for it. I really like combining classic elements with new and non-traditional gems so the black to white diamond gradient pave was a nod to the transition from the norm of white diamonds to where we’re at now where a black diamond which was once a throw away item is now accepted as high end." - Aaron Ruff

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Danielle Mainas 
Next up is a beautifully classic and simple ring designed by Little Bird's own Danielle Mainas during her time working with Brilliant Earth's custom design team. She took the classic notion of a halo and put it to work. She widened the bezel around the central diamond until it became a framing element in its own right. The result is a glittering, streamlined, and incredibly well engineered ring.  Call us if you want one of your very own. 

"I had been wanting to make this ring design for a long time. It was just a matter of meeting the right couple to take on the design with me. I love that this ring is comprised of very simple (humble even) design elements. Bezel settings and channel-set diamond accents are both ancient design elements. There are no frills, just clean and simple intentions, and the result is a stunningly feminine ring. What sets this halo apart from the rest? 1. A bezel set center diamond. 2. A channel set halo. 3. The tiniest diamond accents possible.  The platinum bezel set center diamond is more durable and stylistically bold than the classic prong set design.  We also chose to channel set the diamonds in the halo instead of the usual prong-ladden pave setting you always see, which is typically more fragile than the clean channel setting. Lastly, we opted to use 1mm diamonds as the accents in the halo. Most halo diamonds are 1.5-2mm.  Making the halo diamond accents each smaller than the status quo meant we could increased the quantity of them. The result was a super fine and continuous ring of light around a bold and clean center diamond. " -Danielle Mainas

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Nick Engel's Engagement Story #singletoengel

12/7/2017

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This is a little series of blogs where some of our favorite engagement ring designers tell us how they imagined and then created their own engagement rings. ​Here for our second entry in the already critically acclaimed series "My Engagement Ring Story", a favorite of both the Giants baseball team and yours truly, our fave jeweler, everybody put your hands together for NICK ENGEL! 

So, round here at LITTLE BIRD we suh-eriously heart Nick Engel & Co. He is an incredible jeweler who hand fabricates engagement rings for many of our clients from S C R A T C H. I mean. He's kind of a big deal. Spoiler alert: Best Ring Ever Award goes to Nick for Ali's stunning bespoke emerald cut diamond engagement ring. Without further ado, let's learn how Nick Engel went.........

from this guy...

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to THIS GUY!

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What are the stats?
2.09ct Post Consumer Emerald Cut Center Stone Flanked by half carat baguette diamonds set in 18K Rose “Ali” Gold which I self alloyed.

How did you come up with the concept?
I started off creating a couple of rings that were more traditionally my style but none of them were just right. My team kept reminding me that this ring had to be exceptional and different from my other pieces. I honestly began playing around with fabrication and ended up with the final design after countless hours of filing and altering it until I was happy.

Did you work on it with your partner? How was that?
I actually did not. We created each others bands (which was awesome!) but I wanted to fabricate her entire ring while keeping it a surprise. I was lucky to have insider information from her best friend who took her ring shopping.

Did you always know what you wanted to design?
I had no idea...I really needed the process to dictate the final design.

What’s your favorite detail or part of the ring?
Setting the sidestones upside down and making the basket float were the two elements that really made the ring feel badass to me.

Did you go over budget?
I didn’t have a budget in mind so not really but I definitely went over what I thought I would make it for.

If your ring was worn by a mythical character, who would that character be? Does it have a special power?
Pegasus! Sparkly, brilliant, and capable of magically making your goals a reality. It’s special power is foresight... it predicts a pretty amazing future!

Is there advice you usually give clients that you didn’t take yourself?
If I told you I’d have to kill you...​

A Chronological Account

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GEM STEADY Tells Us Their Personal Engagement Ring Story

10/17/2017

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We are introducing a new series to the LITTLE BIRD blog. Enter: "My Engagement Ring Story" where some of our favorite engagement ring designers tell us how they imagined and then created their own engagement rings. Should be illuminating for those who are looking to create their own ideal engagement ring. Our first story comes from Brittany Stadtmiller about her engagement to Bobby. You guys. Brittany is the funniest. She runs the most attractive AND hilarious jewelry Instagram account I know of: @gemsteady. Not only did their engagement lead to MARRIAGE, but it also created the alternative fine jewelry company I've come love to hard: GEM STEADY. Enjoy!

THE TLDR (too long, didn't read) VERSION:

"...a super powerful sorceress. It would definitely absorb and emit healing powers and have the capability to manifest pretty much anything I ever wanted and deflect all bullshit."
Nuff said. Let's get right down to our interview with Brittany about her engagement ring...
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Tell us the stats!
I actually never had an engagement ring. My husband and I got married on a whim so it was straight to the wedding band which was a super fat sterling silver cigar band.

How did you come up with the concept?
We had just begun our adventure to start a jewelry business and I thought the idea of just one really sexy wide band would be timeless (and fairly simple to create for freshly self taught jeweler). Our story is probably best saved for another day/blog post, but I knew I never wanted to be engaged or ‘have a fiance’ so one big band is all I needed to seal the deal.

Did you work on it with your partner? How was that experience?
Our wedding bands were some of the first rings we ever created (my husband is the maker) and marks the beginning of both our personal and business life together. It is definitely a pretty straight forward design, but we did work together on figuring out the perfect width and sizing.

Did you always know what you wanted to design?
I had no idea. We literally decided to get married after only a matter of a few days spent together so I had never really even thought about what my ring would look like. It was spontaneous to say the least.

What’s your favorite detail or part of the ring?
My favorite part of the ring is the fact that it was one of the very first rings my husband ever made. He had never dabbled in jewelry before, so you can see the seams and imperfections of where the metal connects. I guess that is a pretty good metaphor for our relationship too :)

Did you go over budget?
Not even close.

If your ring was worn by a mythical character, who would that character be? Does it have a special power?
A super powerful sorceress. It would definitely absorb and emit healing powers and have the capability to manifest pretty much anything I ever wanted and deflect all bullshit.

Is there advice you usually give clients that you didn’t take yourself?
I always tell my clients that they should make a decision based on what makes them feel good even if that means getting something made by someone other than me. There is no right or wrong way to wear your jewels. They should go for something that will feel timeless to them.
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The Best Engagement Rings Under $3000

7/17/2017

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Diamond Ring by Sharon ZimmermanDiamond Ring by Sharon Zimmerman
You're welcome!
The national average for an engagement ring generally fluctuates between $3500-6000. It's our pleasure to bring you our curated collection of fave engagement rings under $3000 on Pinterest. There are absolutely stunning rings out there that don't require you to overspend. We are big fans of helping people stay within a super reasonable budget. All said and done, $3000 is still a lot of dough to throw at some rocks and metals. So you'll want to come out on the other side with a stunning, heirloom quality piece that is both stylish and unique. 

The THREE ​pro tips for folks looking in the $3000 engagement ring budget range: ​

1. Look for antiques! Play up clusters, halos and unique styles....

There are some really amazing antique ring curators out there. I always find something amazing at Erica Weiner, Victor Barboné & Metier.
PictureDiamond Cluster Ring, Erica Weiner
Diamond Cluster Ring, Erica Weiner

​2. Check out artists on Etsy! There are some incredible designers showcasing their work here. You just have to sift a bit.

Don't be afraid of Etsy designers! Some of my fave indie designers list on Etsy. Check out Sharon Zimmerman, Melanie Casey & Kate Szabone.
Oval Rose Cut Sapphire Ring by Kate Szabone
Oval Rose Cut Sapphire Ring by Kate Szabone

3. Open your mind to something totally different!

Often times the bigger the budget, the more basic and well travelled the ring style. Open your mind to something unique. I mean. This ring. Can you believe it's under $3000? I know! You'll find treasures in many places, Jewels by Grace has a great eye...
Cushion and Old European Cut Diamond Threestone Ring from Jewels by Grace
Cushion and Old European Cut Diamond Threestone Ring from Jewels by Grace
If you need help understanding how to set your budget and what you can expect to find based on your desired price range, don't hesitate to reach out of a BIRD CALL. We will hook you up with all the salient deets you need to nail it.
Engagement Rings under $3000
Engagement Rings under $3000
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THE ULTIMATE CREATIVE BOUNDARY PUSHING PROJECT - or - How to Get a Wizard to Custom Cut Your Gem

7/27/2015

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Jean-Noel SoniJean-Noel Soni, Top Notch Faceting

For all you folks who say you want something “truly unique” we know a guy who is about to blow your mind: Jean-Noel Soni of Top Notch Faceting. This guy cuts gems to look like optical illusions. Seriously, they look like something from the bottom corner of a kaleidoscope viewer. Should he cut the center gem for your engagement ring? Are you cool enough? 

Here are a few hints that he might be the magician for you:

  • You're high on life.

  • You purchase sculpture. Because you like it.

  • Maybe you’ve waved at someone while you were in traffic.

  • Have you ever seen the title of a blog: The 5 most beautiful, pristine camping spots that no human has even been to,” complete with geotags and directions, and wanted to punch the author in the face?

  • You skinny dip whenever you can get away with it.

  • You get how Rainn Wilson is attractive.

  • Have you ever saved an animal which then lived in your shirt pocket? Are you just waiting for the opportunity?

  • You believe nothing lasts forever. Awww sorry for being serious.

  • You say that the last good year at Burning Man was 2001. And no one can tell if you’re kidding.

  • You’ve won an official air guitar contest.

  • You have faith in artists.

Or maybe you are just a freak on the inside. Bottom line, this is for the person who says “you pick” and really means it. Is this for you? Yes? Then let's hold hands and dance.

STEP 1:  Behold a collection of rough stones in a tattooed palm, or a beaded basket, or a piece of velvet. Pick your poison.
STEP 2:  Jean-Noel will take that rock under his wing and through a mystical & highly specialized process. 
STEP 3:  An artist of your choice will work with you to design the ring around the one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
note: these images do not feature the same exact gem, rather they help you understand the process.
start with rocks
he makes magic
find a designer to set the stone (note: each image features a different type of gem)
Now how to make this happen for yourself? Jean-Noel Soni works with many designers and we would be happy to help put you in touch.

Jean-Noel Soni is based in San Francisco, where he lives with his family. He travels a lot. You can get to drooling
 here.
 How to Pick an ALTERNATIVE GEMSTONE Engagement Ring! A quick guide by Little Bird Engagement Ring Consultants, www.littlebirdtol...
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Cool Kid Trend. Antique diamonds in a new setting. 

7/1/2015

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One of our favorite clients opted for this combination recently and the results were spectacular. More people should do this. We wanted to discuss the pros and cons for the rest of y'all out there. 

Old Mine cuts and old European cuts are harder to find. They are not included in the inventories of major diamond retailers, so you have to have an insider hookup. That being said, they are not as expensive as you'd think - considering their rarity - and if you know the right people you can get your hands on some truly gorgeous diamonds. Luckily, we do. ;) 

Old Mine cuts and European cuts were crafted long before the Modern Round Brilliant was invented. The cut is blockier, more fiery, and is not graded by the same standards that the industry uses to analyze modern brilliant cuts. Often these stones do not come with a certificate from GIA or another grading lab. This makes antique cuts a bit tricky to shop for, but on the plus side they are valuable because of their appeal, so you can feel free to trust your gut, follow your instincts, and choose a stone that you fall in love with. (If this sounds really scary to you, never fear, we are here to talk you through it.)

If you are looking for the classic Tiffany or Cartier engagement ring, this may not be the best route for you. These diamonds generally have a slightly warmer color and a faceting pattern that needs a jeweler who specializes in setting antique cuts to compliment their uniquely beautiful qualities. This is the best way to get the warm look of an antique without the years of wear and tear on the setting. You can work with your jeweler (such as the lovely and talented Linsday Chapman of Giador Fine Jewelry in Nashville, TN) to decide what antique elements you want to include, and what elements you want to update for your modern, glamorous lifestyle.  Or your rustic, bohemian lifestyle. Or your drunk, yoga, camping lifestyle. Your call. 

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    the LITTLE BIRD blog, by Danielle Mainas

    Ever wonder how to figure out her ring size? Select the perfect center stone? Pick the ideal jeweler? Read on, my friends. 

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