About Mokume Gane Rings
What is Mokume Gane?
Mokume-gane is Japanese for 'wood-grain metal' which is a good description of the swirling patterns possible using this labor-intensive ancient Japanese technique. Each ring begins as a 'billet', or fused block of at least 21 layers of metals, usually alternating silver with various colors of gold (yellow, rose, or white). I twist, hammer, and file the billet to create your individual pattern, then form, solder, and carefully hand-file and sand your ring to perfection.
Quality craftsmanship and obsessive attention to detail
I am proud to offer quality craftsmanship and obsessive attention to detail in all my work, but most importantly in my custom wedding rings. Each ring is meticulously created by hand, using the traditional metalsmithing tools of file, handsaw, torch and hammer. Every ring has its own unique pattern, and a 'comfort fit' angle on the inside for easy wearability. Most rings are available etched or smooth, and in six standard precious metal combinations. (Custom combinations are possible too, but will incur an additional fee.) Note: all of the white gold I use is nickel-free.
Ring Metal Color Combinations
The colors you see are the native colors of the metal - no surface patina is applied, and no predominantly copper alloys (like shakudo or shibuichi) are used. This is important, because surface patinas on rings do not last.
Metals combination key:
WS = 14k palladium white gold and sterling silver
WRS = 14k palladium white gold, 14k rose gold and sterling silver
WYS = 14k palladium white gold, 18k yellow gold and sterling silver
YRS = 14k rose gold, 18k yellow gold and sterling silver
PRYS = Palladium 500, 14k rose gold, 14k palladium white gold and sterling silver
PS = Palladium 500 and sterling silver
Finishing options
Etched or Smooth: etching is a great way to make your ring’s colors more apparent, however others prefer the smooth texture of a non-etched ring. All color combinations that include sterling silver can be etched.
Flat-top or Low-dome: to get the most comfortable fit your ring can be finished with a flat dome or a more rounded low-dome.
Recycled Metals
The gold I use comes from a socially-responsible supplier that reclaims and refines all their gold in the most green and eco-friendly way possible. No new gold is mined for my rings. I also exclusively use conflict-free gems and minerals.
“Anne did an amazing job and the pictures do not do her rings justice! High quality craftsmanship!” ~ Jonathon via Etsy
“Absolutely beautiful! This is the second piece we have commissioned from Anne and it is stunning. If you are a fan of mokume gane, she is an exceptional artist and will create something you can truly treasure. My husband cried when he opened this for his Christmas gift.” ~ W. via Etsy
“Absolutely love this ring! After a terrible experience with a different jeweler, I came to Anne in hopes of finding a higher quality mokume gane ring to propose to my partner with. She was incredibly communicative, very helpful in choosing materials/style, and wonderfully accommodating with my many (many) questions. The final product is absolutely beautiful, and my fiancé was thrilled. We plan to order our wedding bands from Anne's shop as well!” ~ Auvern via Etsy
Need help? Contact me for a free Ring Consultation
I’m happy to discuss options with you online via Zoom or in person. My sunny studio is located in beautiful Liberty Station, a thriving waterfront arts district near downtown San Diego. You can see the actual studio and tools I'll use to make your rings, view ring samples and raw materials and even heft a hammer if you like. Parking is free and easy and my studio is steps away from several art galleries, a museum and the bustling Liberty Public Market with it's popular international selection of foods, craft beers, wine and shopping.