About our Materials
I utilize a variety of materials to create my custom, unique rings and jewelry. Foremost, I use coins from a variety of time periods, countries, and metals to create my lustrous bands. Being located in Appalachia, I primarily utilize U.S. coinage, but custom bands can be created from nearly any country's mint. I supplement these unorthodox bands with exotic woods, deer antler, and precious
stones to create stunning pieces of wearable art.
U.S. State Quarters
State Quarters were minted from 1999-2008, and, quickly, became one of the most successfully collected coins ever. All 50 states and, eventually, D.C. and U.S. Territories had direct design input into the back of their respective quarter, leading to an unprecedented 3.5 million citizens actively participating in the coins' design. The coins have two compositions: 90% silver/10% copper and 92% copper/8% nickel. I utilize both during my fabrication process, but due to nickel allergies, I always recommend using silver coins.
U.S. Sacagawea & Presidential Dollars
In 2007, the U.S. Mint began production of Presidential Golden Dollars to commemorate every former POTUS. Currently, 40 Presidents have been emblazoned on the coin while the U.S. Mint kept 20% of the $1 coins in circulation the previous Sacagawea design at the request of the North Dakotan legislature. Production of these coins have ceased, and, unfortunately, minting future Presidents (41-45) will require an Act of Congress. The coins feature a pure copper blank clad with manganese brass. The manganese creates a beautifully lustrous finish and live patina when combined with my exotic woods.
U.S. Half Dollars
The half dollar is a fantastic coin for ring fabrication. The 1964 Kennedy is the last silver (90%) half dollar produced by the U.S. Mint. 40% silver versions were minted between 1965-1969. With the exception of a few collector's sets, the remaining Kennedy dollars are created with a copper blank clad with nickel. All our nickel containing rings are finely polished and given a thick clear coat for those with nickel allergies. We especially love Seated and Walking Liberties, Franklins, and Barbers; they make fantastic rings sure to catch the eyes of others.
Foreign Coinage
Though not my forte, i enjoy seeking out foreign coinage to implement into my ring designs. Currently, I have worked with several individuals wanting custom rings made from a variety of different coins from varying countries and time periods ranging from 336 BC to present day. I utilize primarily U.S. mintage in a several of my other jewelry designs as well. If you’d like a custom handcrafted ring made from a foreign coin, please use the Contact Us link so we can get started
Exotic Woods
One of my favorite materials, exotic woods provide an incredible medium for me to implement in my designs. I currently use woods from across the globe providing me the ability to create some very unique combinations. Where else can you get a ring fabricated from antique currency that's also wrapped in Sapele from tropical Africa?
White-Tailed Deer Antler
Being from Southern Appalachia, utilizing deer antler makes sense. Our Cherokee ancestors used these antlers to fabricate arrowheads, buttons, and ceremonial jewelry. Today, hunting these animals as a supplementary food source still permeates our culture. Conservation programs and strict regulations have allowed these beautiful creatures to over populate our area; wreaking havoc on both themselves and us. Click here to learn more about the effects of overpopulation.
Other Materials
I am constantly learning in my shop and experimenting with a variety of materials. In the future, it's possible (and highly probable), you will find rings made with more interesting and beautiful materials such as celluloid, semi-precious stones, and other inlay materials. Feel free to drop me a line with any suggestions you might have. I genuinely appreciate constructive criticism.