THE TETHYS RING
The Tethys. Reaching Ocean's Deeps.
An art ring by John Flegg and Irene Orr.
Sapphire & Diamonds. Deep Sea Blue Vitreous Enamel. Pale Yellow Gold.
Ring size: N or 6.75 US
Head: 5.4mm by 10.0mm
Handcrafted in Scotland using a bespoke gold alloy and ancient enamelling techniques.
An exclusive collaboration with renowned Scottish goldsmith and enameller John Flegg and esteemed jewellery designer Irene Orr.
The spirit of Art Nouveau is rekindled in the flames of ancient enamel workshops, bringing forth these miniature, wearable artworks... alchemic explorations that reflect - in colour and form - the ever-changing Scottish landscape.
Craft, aesthetics, and beauty are guiding principles of Art Nouveau. Irene and John's craft brings together ancient enamelling techniques, bespoke gold alloys, and new technologies, to create colours and gradients that are unlike anything else on offer.
Through his mastery of the science behind the enamelling process, John casts bespoke gold alloys, and through his intuitive understanding of precise firing temperatures for each colour he bridges the gap between precise science and inimitable art.
The Enamel
The disappearing art of vitreous or "hot" enamel is an ancient technique to which John has dedicated a lifetime. Powdered glass is ‘painted’ onto gold then fired in a kiln, multiple times at different temperatures, creating a colourful, translucent material with a smooth, glossy surface.
Vitreous: literally "like glass".
The Gold
John’s custom alloys contain a slightly higher gold content than the Edinburgh Assay Office hallmarking (9ct gold) implies - closer to 11ct. "This yellow 'enamelling gold' has a soft gold tone that will shift a little over time and take on a slightly rosy hue - the colour of old gold".
Gemstones
Gemstones are responsibly sourced from reputable dealers and have been designated conflict-free.
Resizing
Most rings in the Lost Alchemy collection can be resized a size or two either way, sometimes more. Please get in touch to discuss resizing prior to purchase.
