Fit For A Queen: Custom Ring with Imperial Topaz

Robby emailed me regarding an Imperial Topaz he purchased near the Ouro Preto mines of Minas Gerais, Brazil, a primary source for this rare variety. He asked for my help in using the stone to create a ring for his daughter (and my dear friend) Jamie’s birthday in July. Robby gave me artistic license with the ring -- once the marquise shaped topaz arrived, I began by arranging potential layouts and sketching designs.

Long prized for its luxurious golden-sherry hues, this coveted gem was once reserved for ruling powers and thereby considered ‘imperial’.  To accent stone, I chose pink Sapphire (also referred to as light red Ruby) for its complementary hue and significance as Jamie’s birthstone.  Jamie lives in Denver and is active outdoors, and I wanted the design to reflect her style and sensibilities.  Robby’s reply affirmed my intention "Design is perfect. I love it. It begs for 18 karat don't you think?”  I did.  With his approval, I cast and finished the ring.  

Ancient Greeks believed Imperial Topaz’s fiery properties strengthened the mind, encouraging self -realization and confidence. Jamie experienced a devastating loss last year, and I admire the courage, acceptance & strength she has shown on the journey that has followed. Upon receiving the ring, Robby wrote "Thank you for your artistry and assistance -I am going to suggest to her that this ring is a symbol of new beginnings.  It has been crafted with love from true friendship as well as love from family; therefore, it will be her talisman for a bright and promising future."

San Antonio Wedding Weekend

After a two-year sojourn with the Peace Corps in an elitist hotspot & rich cultural destination, Istanbul Turkmenistan, my friend Boo (known by others as Laura or Lola) moved to Dallas…and met Ryan. She had [soccer] moves he’d never seen. Taken by her mad skills on the field, Ryan knew this cutie was a keeper. So he put a ring on it.

Upon arriving in San Antonio for their wedding weekend, I headed to the Hotel Gunter to escape the heat & rehydrate. I met my college friends at the hotel pool and was greeted with hugs & Bud Light cans. We spent the afternoon catching up over the cold ones while wading in the pool and later had dinner at The Monterey. 

On Saturday morning before the wedding, I walked out of my hotel onto the San Antonio River Walk or Paseo del Rio, four miles of cobble- and-flagstone paths along both sides of the narrow San Antonio River. This charming river walk is lined with cypress trees and lush landscapes, providing a cool retreat for both locals and visitors.  I took a leisurly stroll past trendy shops and restaurants, abundant with margs & guac -- ♥ yum! ♥ 

Boo's wedding dress was gorgeous vintage piece also worn by her mother when her parents tied the knot.  The dress, detailed with little daisies, was lovingly and meticulously tailored to Boo ~ a perfect fit!

Between the ceremony & reception, my friend Elisabeth and I scouted potential wholesale accounts for Julia Failey jewelry. We visited  Sloan Hall Meadow  & Penny Lane and then headed to the McNay Art Museum to get the party started.

Boo had ten bridesmaids in blue by her side.  For bridal party gifts, she selected Bee & Butterfly Charm Necklaces from our website, and I created a couple custom Daisy Charm Necklaces and a Dove  in gold for her Maid of Honor.

And we danced all night, tamborines and all...

I Wanna Dance With Somebody by juliafailey