New signet rings by Justin Duance

Renowned for creating distinctive contemporary jewellery to treasure, west Cornwall-based designer-maker Justin Duance has unveiled a new collection of wood and sandcast signet rings. Each ring combines Justin’s signature techniques of casting precious metal in sand and inlaying with a solid piece of hardwood to create a palpable and personalised piece to treasure.

 
Unisex and made-to-order in a range of metals including recycled silver and gold, examples from the collection include a silver ring cast in sand from the cove of Gunwalloe and inlaid with whiskey barrel oak, and a recycled 9ct yellow gold band cast in sand from Newlyn and inlaid with oak from a 1905 lugger boat. 


 
The rugged nature of the design alludes to the ancient origins of signet rings, which have been around since 3500BC and would be unique to each person. “We were inspired by the idea of a ring that’s impossible to replicate exactly, jewellery that is incredibly personal to the individual, once seen as an extension of one’s self,” explains the team. “By casting each ring in beach sand, no two are the same. The beach sand not only creates the texture you see on the ring, but tiny grains are captured in the gold too. By choosing the sand your ring is cast in, you can carry a piece of your favourite place with you everywhere you go. The wood inlay replaces classic coats of arms and – as with the sand – you are encouraged to choose a wood that holds meaning to you.”

justind.co.uk