I Don't Buy Rings.

Year

2022

Client

Shelby Wilkins

CADConceptDesign for ManufactureRendering
A silver ring with a dark green gemstone rests on a plastic ziplock bag on a workbench, surrounded by metal files and other tools—an Industrial Design NZ-inspired jewellery workshop with hints of CAD precision in every detail.

Project Overview

This engagement ring was a deeply personal project, designed and crafted with meaning at every step. I had always told myself that when the time came to propose, the ring would be something I was involved in making—rather than something off the shelf. The final design features a carefully chosen mermaid sapphire, a unique gemstone with blue and teal hues that hold special significance to Shelby. The sapphire was sourced from Africa, the place where we were both born, making the piece even more meaningful.

My Role

I was involved in every stage of the process, from initial research to the final finishing. Since I had no prior experience in jewelry design or manufacturing, I spent time consulting with specialists—most of whom advised against taking on this challenge. However, I eventually found a foundry and jeweler who were willing to share their knowledge. I initially experimented with specialist jewelry CAD programs, but ultimately used Grasshopper, as it tied back to my background in computational design.

The ring was 3D-printed to create a mold for platinum casting. Afterward, the sapphire and diamonds were carefully set by a professional setter, and a finisher completed the final touches. The result was a one-of-a-kind engagement ring, filled with sentiment and personal meaning. Most importantly—she said yes!

A digital diagram with interconnected nodes and flowcharts is shown above three 3D renderings of a silver ring—designed for manufacture by ET-ID, a freelance industrial designer—viewed from different angles and alongside a wireframe design view.
Several printed jewellery guides and charts are spread out on a flat, teal surface, showcasing CAD designs and information about rings, gemstones, and styles—ideal references for any freelance industrial designer focused on design for manufacture.
A silver ring setting sits beside a loose, oval-cut blue-green gemstone on a white surface, showcasing elegant Industrial Design NZ craftsmanship and waiting for the stone to be set into the ring.
A silver ring with a dark green gemstone rests in a hexagonal wooden box, its lid engraved with floral designs and S & E initials—an elegant piece inspired by Industrial Design NZ, with the ring nestled on a hessian cushion inside.