Birthstones - Suzanne Crudden Custom Jewellery

Aquamarine the March Birthstone: History, Meaning, and Jewellery Gift Ideas

Suzanne Crudden — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:09:38 +0000

Aquamarine is the March birthstone, a blue variety of the mineral beryl known for its clarity, durability, and association with the sea. The name comes from the Latin words aqua marina, meaning “water of the sea,” a fitting description for a gemstone whose colour often resembles calm ocean water.

Aquamarine belongs to the beryl family of minerals, the same group that includes emerald and morganite. Because of its clarity, durability, and soft blue colour, it has been used in jewellery for centuries.

Aquamarine is also appreciated for its understated colour. Unlike darker blue gemstones, aquamarine has a light, airy tone that works beautifully in many styles of jewellery. This versatility is one reason it has remained popular for centuries and continues to be chosen for both modern and vintage inspired designs.

Today, aquamarine remains a popular choice for March birthstone jewellery, especially rings, pendants, and earrings that highlight the stone’s clean, transparent beauty.

What Is Aquamarine?

Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, coloured blue by traces of iron within the crystal structure.

Some key characteristics of aquamarine include:

Colour: pale blue to deeper blue-green
Hardness: 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale
Clarity: typically very clean with few visible inclusions
Crystal structure: hexagonal

Because aquamarine is relatively hard and usually free of visible inclusions, it is well suited for many types of jewellery. The best types of jewellery for aquamarine are pendants and earrings. If you’d like an aquamarine ring, it’s often best worn as a special occasion ring rather than an everyday ring.

One of the qualities gem cutters appreciate most about aquamarine is its clarity. Many aquamarine crystals form with very few internal inclusions, allowing cutters to produce larger stones that appear exceptionally transparent. This clarity is part of what gives aquamarine its crisp, watery appearance.

History and Symbolism of Aquamarine

Aquamarine has a long history and has been associated with the sea for thousands of years.

In ancient times, sailors believed aquamarine protected them during voyages. Some carried the gemstone as a talisman for safe travel across rough waters. Roman writers also described aquamarine as a stone that could calm waves and protect those at sea.

Over time, aquamarine became associated with qualities such as:

calmness and clarity
harmony and balance
protection during travel
clear communication

During the Middle Ages, aquamarine was sometimes believed to help settle disputes and encourage clear communication. Because of this association, the gemstone was occasionally used in decorative objects or jewellery intended to symbolize honesty and harmony.

While these symbolic meanings vary across cultures, the gemstone’s cool blue colour has long been connected with tranquility and clear water.

Where Aquamarine Is Found

Aquamarine is mined in several parts of the world, with some regions producing particularly well-known material.

Major sources include:

Brazil – historically the most famous source
Pakistan – known for large crystals from high-altitude mines
Nigeria
Mozambique
Madagascar

Brazil has produced some of the largest aquamarine crystals ever discovered, sometimes weighing hundreds of kilograms before cutting.

Aquamarine crystals form in pegmatite deposits, which are coarse-grained igneous rocks that can produce unusually large mineral crystals. Because of these geological conditions, aquamarine is sometimes found in very large crystals compared to many other gemstones.

Aquamarine Colours and Quality

The colour of aquamarine can vary from very light blue to deeper blue or slightly greenish blue.

In general:

Paler stones often appear bright and very clear
Deeper blue stones tend to be more valuable
Many aquamarines on the market are heat treated to remove green tones and enhance the blue colour

Aquamarine is also known for its excellent clarity. Unlike emerald, which often contains visible inclusions, aquamarine crystals frequently appear very clean even in larger sizes.

Because of this clarity, gem cutters often use step cuts, emerald cuts, and oval cuts that emphasize the stone’s transparency and colour.

Well cut aquamarines are valued for their brightness and even colour distribution. Because lighter stones can sometimes appear washed out, careful cutting helps concentrate the colour and maximize the gemstone’s sparkle.

Aquamarine in Jewellery

Aquamarine’s combination of durability and clarity makes it a versatile gemstone for jewellery.

Common pieces include:

Aquamarine rings
Often set in yellow or white gold, aquamarine rings can range from delicate solitaire styles to larger statement stones. Best as special occasion rings rather than everyday rings.

Aquamarine pendants
Because aquamarine crystals can be cut quite large, pendants are a popular way to showcase the stone’s colour.

Aquamarine earrings
Studs or drop earrings highlight the gemstone’s brightness and light blue tone.

At our jewellery studio in Toronto, aquamarine is sometimes chosen not only as a March birthstone, but just because it’s so beautiful.

Aquamarine also pairs beautifully with diamonds or other light coloured gemstones. The cool blue tone of aquamarine can create a soft contrast with the brilliance of diamonds, which is why it is sometimes used in anniversary jewellery as well.

Why Aquamarine Makes a Meaningful March Birthstone Gift

For people born in March, aquamarine jewellery can be a thoughtful and personal gift.

Some reasons aquamarine jewellery works well as a birthday gift include:

it’s more meaningful because of the symbolism of aquamarine being the March birthstone
a precious piece of jewellery is something people have for a lifetime
classic pieces such as pendants or earrings can easily be worn everyday
it’s really pretty

Because aquamarine crystals often grow quite large, it is also possible to find beautiful stones in larger sizes without the extreme cost of some other gemstones.

For many people, birthstone jewellery carries a personal meaning that goes beyond the gemstone itself. Aquamarine jewellery given for a March birthday can become a keepsake that marks a moment in time or celebrates an important relationship.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aquamarine

What is the March birthstone?

Aquamarine is the traditional birthstone for March. It is a blue variety of the mineral beryl and has been associated with the month of March for centuries. Its cool blue colour and clarity make it a popular choice for birthstone jewellery.

What gives aquamarine its blue colour?

Aquamarine’s blue colour is caused by trace amounts of iron within the crystal structure of beryl. Variations in the amount and oxidation state of iron can produce shades ranging from pale blue to deeper blue or slightly greenish tones.

Where are aquamarine gemstones found?

Aquamarine is mined in several regions around the world. Some of the most important sources include Brazil, Pakistan, Nigeria, Mozambique, and Madagascar. Brazil has historically produced some of the largest aquamarine crystals ever discovered.

What is the largest aquamarine gemstone?

One of the most famous aquamarines is the Dom Pedro Aquamarine, a large carved gemstone now displayed at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. It was cut from an enormous Brazilian aquamarine crystal and weighs over 10,000 carats.

Aquamarine Jewellery in Toronto

Aquamarine continues to be a popular choice for people looking for March birthstone jewellery in Toronto, especially for rings and pendants that highlight the gemstone’s clear blue colour.

Because aquamarine is available in a wide range of sizes and shades, it can work well in both simple designs and custom jewellery pieces.

You can explore more about our process for creating custom pieces on our custom jewellery process page.

If you’re thinking of making some aquamarine custom jewellery, we’d love to help. You can start by requesting a quote. We’re looking forward to working with you!

The post Aquamarine the March Birthstone: History, Meaning, and Jewellery Gift Ideas first appeared on Suzanne Crudden Custom Jewellery.

Amethyst Jewellery: History, Meaning, and Where It Comes From

Suzanne Crudden — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 21:27:28 +0000

Amethyst is one of the most well-known purple gemstones and has been valued for thousands of years. Amethyst jewellery has been a popular choice due to its being the birthstone for February but also because of its striking colour.

A Brief History of Amethyst

Amethyst has been used since at least 3,000 BCE. Ancient Egyptians carved it into amulets and jewellery, while the Greeks and Romans believed it could prevent intoxication. In fact, the name “amethyst” comes from the Greek word amethystos, which means “not drunken.”

During the Middle Ages, amethyst was associated with royalty and the church. Bishops often wore rings with amethyst, and European crowns included large amethyst stones. It symbolized piety, humility, and protection, as well as wealth.

Symbolism

Throughout history, amethyst has been thought to have protective and healing properties. People believed it could:

Calm the mind and help with focus
Protect against harm or negative energy
Encourage peace and balance

While these beliefs are historical, many people today still value amethyst for its symbolism as a stone of clarity and calm.

Raw amethyst from Thunder Bay cut into gemstones in this engagement ring.

Where Amethyst Is Found

Amethyst is mined in several countries, including:

Brazil and Uruguay – the largest sources today
Zambia and other parts of Africa – known for deep purple stones
North America – including Ontario, Canada, particularly Thunder Bay and southern Ontario
United States – Arizona and North Carolina

Amethyst Variations and Alternatives

Amethyst comes in different shades and related stones:

Rose de France: A very pale purple amethyst, often used when a lighter look is desired.
Green amethyst (Prasiolite): Technically not amethyst, prasiolite is green quartz created by heat-treating certain amethyst. It’s popular for its fresh, subtle green colour.
Deep purple stones: Classic amethyst with rich, dark purple colour remains the most sought-after for jewellery.

These variations provide options for different tastes, colour preferences and budgets while still being part of the amethyst family or closely related quartz stones.

Treatments and Synthetic Amethyst

Most amethyst on the market today is natural, untreated quartz, but some stones may undergo treatments:

Heat treatment: Can deepen or lighten colour or produce prasiolite (green quartz).
Irradiation: Sometimes used to enhance colour, though less common.

Synthetic amethyst also exists. Lab-grown amethyst has the same chemical composition as natural stones but is created in a controlled environment. It’s estimated that around 5–10% of amethyst on the market is synthetic, often sold at lower prices or for mass-produced jewellery.

Amethyst Types and Treatments Table

Type / Name	Colour Range	Treatment / Notes	Common Use in Jewellery
Classic Amethyst	Deep to medium purple	Usually untreated	Rings, necklaces, earrings
Rose de France	Very pale purple	Usually untreated	Delicate rings, light-coloured settings
Chevron Amethyst	Purple with white banding	Usually untreated	Statement rings, pendants
Green Amethyst / Prasiolite	Pale to medium green	Heat-treated amethyst	Rings, necklaces, bracelets
Synthetic Amethyst	Purple (varies)	Lab-created stone	Lower-cost jewellery, mass-produced pieces

Notes:

Heat treatment can sometimes deepen or lighten amethyst colour.
Irradiation is less common but may be used to enhance colour.
Most amethyst on the market is natural, with only a small percentage being synthetic (~5–10%).

Interesting Facts About Amethyst

Amethyst is a variety of quartz.
Its purple colour comes from iron and natural radiation.
It is the birthstone for February.
With a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, it is durable enough for everyday jewellery.
“Chevron amethyst” shows banded patterns that are especially striking.

Famous Examples of Amethyst

Some historical pieces of amethyst include:

The Delhi Purple Sapphire, actually an amethyst, once thought to protect rulers in India.
Large amethyst stones featured in Russian and European crowns.

These examples show how highly valued amethyst has been throughout history.

Amethyst Jewellery

Amethyst continues to be popular in jewellery. It pairs well with gold, white gold, and silver, and is used in both modern and vintage-style pieces. Many people also choose amethyst jewellery for sentimental reasons, especially if it has been passed down through a family.

Whether you’re looking for a simple ring or a statement necklace, amethyst jewellery offers both beauty and a connection to history.

If you’re looking for birthstone jewellery ideas be sure to check out our family jewellery portfolio.

The post Amethyst Jewellery: History, Meaning, and Where It Comes From first appeared on Suzanne Crudden Custom Jewellery.

November Birthstones Topaz and Citrine

Suzanne Crudden — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 20:29:56 +0000

A Little Sunshine for November Birthdays

As the days get shorter here in Toronto and the grey November skies roll in, it’s nice to have something warm and golden to hold on to. And that’s exactly what November birthstones topaz and citrine bring.

Topaz and citrine are both glowing, cheerful stones that seem to catch the light of autumn’s last sunshine. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, looking for a gift or just love these rich golden gems, November birthstones make beautiful jewellery.

Yellow Topaz: The Traditional November Birthstone

The traditional birthstone for November is yellow topaz, a gem known for its golden radiance and incredible clarity. Throughout history, topaz has been seen as a stone of warmth, strength, and good fortune. Ancient Egyptians even linked it to the sun god Ra, believing it carried the energy of the sun itself, perfect for brightening the darker days of late fall.

Topaz is found in many parts of the world including Brazil, Russia, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and Pakistan. The most famous golden topaz comes from Brazil’s Minas Gerais region. This is also where the most coveted variety, Imperial Topaz, originates.

Imperial Topaz : The Rare Royal Gem

Imperial Topaz is the crème de la crème of the topaz family. With its deep golden-orange or blush-pink tones, it seems to glow from within. The name dates back to 19th-century Russia, where it was reserved for the Czar’s family, hence “Imperial.”

Today, natural Imperial Topaz is rare and sought-after, making it a beautiful choice for custom jewellery that feels truly one-of-a-kind.

A Rainbow of Topaz Colours

While the birthstone for November features topaz in its sunny yellow shade, this gem actually comes in a whole spectrum of colours, blue, pink, champagne, green, and even colourless.

These colours form naturally due to tiny trace elements and natural irradiation in the earth, though some are gently enhanced with heat to bring out their most vibrant hues.

That means if yellow isn’t your colour, there’s a topaz for you, from cool London Blue Topaz to soft pink champagne tones. All of them can be lovely alternatives for November birthstone jewellery, especially if you aren’t a big fan of yellow.

Citrine: A Cheerful Alternative

The other birthstone for November is citrine, a gem that seems to hold sunshine inside it. Citrine is actually a variety of quartz, and its name comes from citron, the French word for lemon.

Its warm yellow and amber tones are caused by traces of iron in the crystal. While natural citrine exists, most citrine you’ll find today is heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz. The heat gives it that deep, golden colour that ranges from honey to amber to sunset orange.

Citrine is found in Brazil, Spain, Madagascar, and Uruguay, and it’s known for being bright and budget-friendly. A lovely option for November birthstone gifts if you want something warm, sparkly, and meaningful.

Finding Your November Birthstone Jewellery in Toronto

Whether you fall for the rare fire of Imperial Topaz or the soft, golden glow of citrine, both gems carry a warmth that feels so fitting for November.

They shine beautifully in rings, necklaces, earrings, and make thoughtful birthday gifts. Or even just a little self-care sparkle before winter sets in.

If you’re looking for November birthstone jewellery in Toronto, we’d love to help you create something that captures your story. From a golden citrine pendant to a warm topaz pair of earrings that feels like a little bit of sunshine you can wear.

The post November Birthstones Topaz and Citrine first appeared on Suzanne Crudden Custom Jewellery.

October Birthstone Jewellery: Opal and Tourmaline

Suzanne Crudden — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 23:28:36 +0000

October Birthstone Jewellery: Opal and Pink Tourmaline

October is a month of changing colours, cozy sweaters, and crisp autumn air. And beyond that, October babies are in luck because they have two beautiful gems to call their own: opal and pink tourmaline.

Both stones full of colour and meaning, making them perfect for creating October birthstone jewellery that tells a story. Whether you’re gifting someone special or treating yourself, these gems bring warmth to any design.

The Magic of Opal: Fire in Stone

Opal feels a bit like autumn itself, full of light, layers of colour, and unexpected beauty. Its rainbow-like flashes have long made it a favourite among gem lovers.

History & Symbolism

Ancient Rome: Opals were seen as symbols of hope and purity. They were believed to bring good fortune.
Medieval Europe: Because opals contain so many colours, people thought they carried the power of every gemstone in one. Some even believed they granted invisibility!
Folklore: Through the centuries, opal has been tied to love, healing, and protection.

Where It’s Found

Most of the world’s opals come from Australia, famous for its fiery black opals. Other sources include Ethiopia, Mexico, and Brazil—each producing stones with their own distinct character.

In jewellery, opal pairs beautifully with warm yellow gold. Opal is a soft gemstone so yellow gold is a also a better option than white gold because it’s softer. It’s less likely for the opal to be damaged during setting in yellow gold, especially a higher karat.

Pink Tourmaline: October’s Modern Gem

If opal is like autumn leaves dancing in the light, then pink tourmaline is like a late October sunset—soft, glowing, and full of warmth.

History & Symbolism

Ancient Egypt: Legends said tourmaline travelled along a rainbow from the earth’s core, explaining its many colours.
18th Century Europe: Tourmaline became popular when Dutch traders brought it from Sri Lanka, where its unusual ability to attract small objects when heated earned it a reputation as a “magnet stone.”
Symbolism: Pink tourmaline is thought to bring love, compassion, and emotional balance—a gemstone for the heart.

Where It’s Found

Most pink tourmaline comes from Brazil, though it’s also found in Afghanistan, Mozambique, and the U.S. Its soft blush tones make it a versatile stone for both everyday jewellery and one-of-a-kind statement pieces.

October Birthstone Jewellery

Here in Toronto, October is the month where fall really arrives. The changing colour of the leaves, the need to pop on a sweater, all as we recognize a time of thanks giving and gratitude.

At our Toronto studio, we love creating custom opal and pink tourmaline jewellery for October babies and those that love them. Whether it’s a family birthstone ring, a pendant for an October birthday, or a pair of earrings just because.

Opal, being a soft stone, is more suitable for pendants and earrings. If you’d like to create a family birthstone ring we’d recommend pink tourmaline because it’s a bit more durable.

Alternatives for October Birthstones

Not everyone chooses opal or pink tourmaline. Some prefer alternatives that capture October’s romantic, colourful feel while offering a different look or durability:

Tourmaline – Other colours such as green and blue.

Rose Quartz – A gentle pink stone symbolizing love and peace.
Morganite – A peachy-pink cousin of emerald, popular for its elegance.
Moonstone – With its glowing, mystical sheen, it shares opal’s magical play of light.

Each carries its own meaning, making them lovely substitutes for October-inspired jewellery.

Final Thoughts

October’s birthstones, opal and pink tourmaline, capture the richness of the season. From the fiery flashes of opal to the tender glow of pink tourmaline, each stone carries history, symbolism, and beauty.

If you’re in Toronto and looking to create custom October birthstone jewellery that is as meaningful as it is beautiful, these gems are the perfect way to celebrate the season and the people you love.

The post October Birthstone Jewellery: Opal and Tourmaline first appeared on Suzanne Crudden Custom Jewellery.

Birthstone List

Suzanne Crudden — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 23:57:04 +0000

THE COMPLETE BIRTHSTONE LIST

Have you ever wondered why birthstones are such a big deal? In our birthstone list we will explore their history, discover the traditional and alternate stones, and learn some cool facts about each gem.

If you just looking for quick rundown of which stone corresponds to which month we’ve created this handy graphic below.

A Brief History of Birthstones

The idea of birthstones dates back to ancient times. The tradition is thought to have originated with the Breastplate of Aaron, a religious garment described in the Bible that was adorned with twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel.

Fast forward to the 18th century, and people in Poland began wearing gemstones corresponding to their birth month. This trend spread, and in 1912, the American National Retail Jewelers Association (now Jewelers of America) officially adopted a standardized list of birthstones.

Traditional Birthstone List

January – Garnet

Chemical Description: Garnets are a group of silicate minerals with similar physical properties but different chemical compositions.
Where It’s Found: Garnet deposits are found in places like India, Sri Lanka, and the USA.
Fun Fact: Garnets come in almost every color except blue!

February – Amethyst

Chemical Description: Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz, composed of silicon dioxide.
Where It’s Found: Major sources include Brazil, Uruguay, and Zambia.
Fun Fact: Ancient Greeks believed amethyst could prevent drunkenness.

March – Aquamarine

Chemical Description: Aquamarine is a blue to blue-green variety of beryl, containing beryllium aluminum silicate.
Where It’s Found: This gem is commonly found in Brazil, Nigeria, and Madagascar.
Fun Fact: Aquamarine is said to calm the waves and keep sailors safe at sea.

April – Diamond

Chemical Description: Diamonds are pure carbon, arranged in a crystal lattice.
Where It’s Found: Diamonds are primarily mined in South Africa, Russia, and Canada.
Fun Fact: Diamonds are the hardest natural substance on Earth.

May – Emerald

Chemical Description: Emerald is a green variety of beryl, colored by trace amounts of chromium and vanadium.
Where It’s Found: Significant sources include Colombia, Zambia, and Brazil.
Fun Fact: Cleopatra was famously obsessed with emeralds!

June – Pearl

Chemical Description: Pearls are organic gems formed inside mollusks, composed mainly of calcium carbonate.
Where It’s Found: They are primarily harvested in Japan, China, and the South Pacific.
Fun Fact: Pearls are the only gems created by living organisms.

July – Ruby

Chemical Description: Ruby is a red variety of corundum, made of aluminum oxide with chromium.
Where It’s Found: Notable sources are Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, and Sri Lanka.
Fun Fact: Rubies are known as the “king of gemstones” for their deep red color and rarity.

August – Peridot

Chemical Description: Peridot is a gem-quality variety of olivine, composed of magnesium iron silicate.
Where It’s Found: Major sources include the USA (Arizona), China, and Pakistan.
Fun Fact: Peridot has been found in meteorites!

September – Sapphire

Chemical Description: Sapphire is a variety of corundum, an aluminum oxide mineral.
Where It’s Found: Sapphires are mined in countries like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Australia.
Fun Fact: While blue is the most common, sapphires come in nearly every color except red (which are rubies).

October – Opal

Chemical Description: Opals are hydrated silica, with a significant water content.
Where It’s Found: Australia is the primary source, followed by Ethiopia and Mexico.
Fun Fact: Opals can display a stunning play-of-color, with flashes of rainbow colors.

November – Topaz

Chemical Description: Topaz is a silicate mineral of aluminum and fluorine.
Where It’s Found: Brazil is the largest producer, along with Pakistan and Russia.
Fun Fact: Pure topaz is colorless, and impurities give it various colors.

December – Turquoise

Chemical Composition: Hydrated copper aluminum phosphate.
Where Found: Iran, the United States (Southwest), and China.
Fun Fact: Turquoise has been prized for thousands of years and is one of the oldest known gemstones.

Alternate Birthstone List

In addition to traditional birthstones, there is an alternate birthstone list for each month. They were introduced over time to provide more options and sometimes better availability.

June – Alexandrite

When It Became an Alternate: Added as an alternate in the late 20th century.
Fun Fact: Alexandrite changes color from green in daylight to red under incandescent light.

August – Spinel

When It Became an Alternate: Officially recognized in 2016.
Fun Fact: Spinel was often mistaken for ruby in the past; the “Black Prince’s Ruby” in the British Crown Jewels is actually a spinel.

October – Pink Tourmaline

When It Became an Alternate: Recognized in the early 20th century.
Fun Fact: Tourmaline comes in many colors, with pink being one of the most popular.

November – Citrine

When It Became an Alternate: Added in the early 20th century.
Fun Fact: Citrine is known as the “merchant’s stone” for its supposed prosperity-bringing properties.

December – Blue Zircon and Tanzanite

When Became Alternatives: Zircon in the 1950s, Tanzanite in 2002.
Fun Fact: Zircon is double refractive which makes it very sparkly and Tanzanite is prized for its deep blue-violet hue.

What's your Stone?

So there you have it, your comprehensive birthstone list! Next time you admire your birthstone, you’ll know a bit more about its history, origins, and the science that makes it shine.

If you are thinking of making a piece of birthstone jewellery we’d be happy to help! You can either reach out to us or request a quote and we’ll get back to you asap.

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Custom Mother’s Day Jewellery

Suzanne Crudden — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 22:04:55 +0000

Mother’s Day is a day where we pause the demands of everyday life to recognize and cherish our mothers. Traditionally accompanied with gifts, large or small, but always thoughtful. A macaroni necklace made by a child can be just as valuable to a mother as a necklace made of gold. What is important is the meaning. This is why custom mother’s day jewellery is such a great idea for a Mother’s Day gift. Lasting, heirloom quality jewellery invested with meaning.

Custom Mother’s Day jewellery doesn’t have to be studded with diamonds to be meaningful. For example, we could cast one of those pieces of pasta from a macaroni necklace in silver so it lasts forever. In this post we’re going to take a look at custom Mother’s Day jewellery ideas that are both thoughtful and meaningful.

Custom Mother's Day Jewellery: Necklace Ideas

We’ve found that necklaces or pendants are a very popular gift for Mother’s Day. Likely because they are easy to wear everyday and sit close to the heart.

Birthstone Necklaces

Personalized Necklaces

There are many ways to include a special touch of personalization in a necklace. You could include names or initials. You could include an engraving of a fingerprint. You could even scan a piece of your child’s artwork or handwriting that we could then engrave on a pendant.

Custom Mother's Day Jewellery: Rings

The other most popular custom Mother’s Day jewellery idea is a ring. It is an especially popular gift for adult children to give to their mother, or a husband to give to a wife. Usually these rings contain the birthstones of the family.

The nice thing about a family ring is that it doesn’t have to adhere to a certain style. This gives us the opportunity to include, not only personal style preferences, but thoughtful, symbolic touches in the ring.

Other Custom Mother's Day Jewellery Ideas

Bracelets are probably the next most popular Mother’s Day gift after necklaces and rings. There are certainly a number of charm-type bracelets that are very popular. Although you could say that charm bracelets are personalized, it’s more of a generic personalization. To add more meaning, you could use some of the ideas above such as custom engraving, birthstones or fingerprints.

Earrings seem to be less popular for Mother’s Day in particular, although they are very popular as a gift for other special occasions.

As with anything, the sky is the limit. If you have an vision for something you’d like to create fill out our quote request form. Or check out our shop, we have a lot of really special ready to ship pieces.

The post Custom Mother’s Day Jewellery first appeared on Suzanne Crudden Custom Jewellery.

What to Expect When Creating a Custom Ring

Suzanne Crudden — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:53:56 +0000

Thinking of creating a custom ring? Where do you start? I know it might seem intimidating if you have no experience in this area. Even worse if you have had an experience and that experience was bad.

This is going to be a significant purchase and it’s important that you feel comfortable each step of the way. Don’t worry, making a ring can be easy and fun.

How we will create your custom ring together

Types of Rings

Not every custom ring is going to be an engagement ring or a wedding ring. While the majority of the rings I create are custom engagement rings or custom wedding bands, I’ve also had the opportunity to custom design: right hand rings, signet rings, family rings, cocktail rings, stacking rings, promise rings and reuse heirloom jewellery to create new rings. You want a custom ring? I’ve got you covered.

Involvement

Just starting your mission and trying to find out options and costs? No problem. I’d be happy to chat anytime whether you’re ready to make your piece of jewellery or not.

If you’re local and are looking for a custom made ring in Toronto feel free to pop into my studio. Or if you have specific questions about the logistics please check out my custom process page.

I’m not a salesperson so at no point will I try to convince you into something you don’t want.

Remember, there are no stupid questions. I will provide honest answers to all of them, promise.

No Pressure

You will be a part of the process from initial concept to choosing your own gemstones to completion.

Creating a custom ring is an experience. Together we will refine the design until it’s perfect. Think of me as your personal jewellery designer.

Or, if you’re creating this ring for someone other than yourself, I’m happy to have the recipient of the ring involved or not. For example, if it’s an engagement ring design I’ve had many clients choose to have their partner there for the initial consultation and then continue the project on their own.

If you choose to have it a surprise, you will be able to tell your partner the story of their ring from initial mocks up to CAD design to wax model to finished piece.

I will give you regular status updates so you’re confident each step of the way.

Respect

I respect your preferences. Perhaps you want to look into alternative metals or lab made stones. I’m open to everything as long as the result is a ring that is functional, comfortable and beautiful.

I respect your wishes to explore ethical choices. This is really important to me too. In fact one of the most common projects I work on is re-using old jewellery to create something new. I’m also committed to finding ethically sourced materials.

I respect your budget. It’s ok, you can tell me if you have a number in mind that you don’t want to go beyond. I’ve worked with every kind of budget and made sure my clients got the best possible bling for their buck.

Materials

I am able to work with all kinds of precious metals including, sterling silver, white gold, palladium white gold, palladium, yellow gold, rose gold, green gold and platinum. Unfortunately my studio is not set up to work with alternative metals such as titanium and tungsten. If you would like a ring in one of these metals I can source different options from some of my suppliers.

I’m also able to work with pretty much any gemstone. I say “pretty much” because I will only work with conflict-free gemstones and no banned materials such as ivory or coral. As I noted above I work a lot with lab grown gemstones and diamonds and I highly recommend them as an alternative to earth-mined stones.

What I’ve tried to do here is talk about certain ideas that people have about custom jewellery. If you’d like to learn more about the actual process and logistics I do encourage you to check out my custom process page and my reuse old jewellery page. Or if you’d like to see some of custom rings I’ve made with my clients you can head on over to my custom rings, custom engagement rings or custom wedding rings portfolios.

Please do get in touch if you have any other questions. I’m here to help.

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