Congratulations Rhys and Anita!
If you're a Lord of the Rings fan seeking to create a magical and unique wedding experience, you've come to the right place. In this blog post, we'll explore the mystical world of handcrafted elvish wedding rings, inspired by the epic saga that has captured the hearts of millions.
Journey with us as we delve into the art and techniques behind these intricate creations, from the symbolism woven into their designs to the personal touches that make each ring truly special. We'll guide you through the process of customizing your very own handcrafted elvish wedding rings, as well as selecting the perfect precious metals and gemstones to reflect your love story.
With a focus on ethical sourcing and sustainability, we'll discuss how to ensure that your rings honor both the beauty of Middle-earth and the world we live in. We'll also share heartwarming stories of fellow LOTR fans who have chosen these unique bands to symbolize their union, as well as tips for finding the ideal artisan to bring your vision to life.
Finally, we'll equip you with expert advice on caring for your handcrafted elvish wedding rings, ensuring they remain as timeless and enduring as the love they represent. So, whether you're exchanging the eternal love knot or seeking inspiration from the entwined destinies of Aragorn and Arwen, let us be your guide in forging an unforgettable love story with these exquisite elvish wedding rings.
Handcrafted elvish wedding rings are a testament to the skill, passion, and artistry of their creators. Drawing inspiration from Tolkien's rich universe, these rings incorporate elvish motifs, intricate engravings, and beautiful craftsmanship. Traditional handcrafting techniques, such as lost-wax casting and hand engraving, ensure that each ring is a one-of-a-kind piece. Artisans spend countless hours perfecting each detail, combining old-world artistry with modern jewelry-making methods to produce exceptional rings that capture the magic of Middle-earth.
Explore the meticulous techniques and skills utilized by artisans in crafting elvish wedding rings, from intricate engraving to delicate filigree work, and how these processes combine to create beautiful and timeless pieces of wearable art.
Delve into the historical and cultural influences that inspired Tolkien's elvish designs, examining how elements from various ancient civilizations and myths have informed the creation of handcrafted elvish wedding rings.
Discover the talented individuals who have dedicated their careers to transforming Tolkien's fantastical world into tangible, exquisite jewelry, and learn about the passion and expertise that goes into each handcrafted elvish wedding ring.
The enchanting designs of handcrafted elvish wedding rings often hold deep symbolic meaning. Inspired by the elegant and flowing script of Tengwar, elvish engravings can convey love, eternity, or passages from Tolkien's works. Other common motifs include elvish vines, leaves, and knots, symbolizing the intertwining of two lives, growth, and unity. By understanding the symbolism behind these motifs, couples can choose rings that best represent their unique love story and connection to the world of Lord of the Rings.
Decode the symbolism behind the Tengwar script and elvish motifs commonly found in handcrafted wedding rings, exploring the significance of each design element and how they contribute to the overall story and meaning of the ring.
Examine the connection between Tolkien's Middle-earth and the natural world, and how elements of flora and fauna are incorporated into the designs of handcrafted elvish wedding rings, adding an organic touch to each piece.
Discuss the unique balance between fantasy and reality that handcrafted elvish wedding rings achieve, providing couples with a tangible representation of their love for each other and their shared passion for Tolkien's magical realm.
Customization allows couples to create truly unique handcrafted elvish wedding rings that reflect their personalities and love story. Options for personalization include custom engravings, such as elvish script or quotes from Tolkien's works, as well as selecting specific gemstones or metal finishes. Couples may also work closely with artisans to create entirely bespoke designs, incorporating elements inspired by their favorite characters, locations, or themes from Lord of the Rings.
Explore various ideas for customizing your handcrafted elvish wedding rings with unique engravings, from personal messages in Tengwar script to meaningful symbols or quotes from the Lord of the Rings series, making your rings truly one-of-a-kind.
Learn how to create a truly personalized handcrafted elvish wedding ring by combining different metals and gemstones to achieve a bespoke design that reflects your individual style and the unique story of your love.
Discover how to design complementary handcrafted elvish wedding rings for you and your partner, ensuring that your bands not only share a common theme but also showcase your individual personalities and preferences.
Selecting the right materials is crucial for creating handcrafted elvish wedding rings that stand the test of time. Popular metal choices include gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, each offering unique benefits in terms of durability, appearance, and cost. Couples may also consider incorporating gemstones, such as diamonds, sapphires, or emeralds, to add a touch of color and sparkle to their rings. When selecting materials, it's essential to consider factors such as lifestyle, budget, and personal style preferences.
Navigate the process of choosing the right metal for your handcrafted elvish wedding ring, considering factors such as durability, appearance, and personal style preferences, as well as the significance of each metal in Tolkien's world.
Explore the various gemstone options available for handcrafted elvish wedding rings, understanding the symbolism, colors, and qualities of each stone, and how to choose the perfect gem to represent your love story.
Learn about the importance of choosing responsibly sourced metals and gemstones for your handcrafted elvish wedding rings, ensuring that your love token is not only beautiful but also ethically and environmentally conscious.
Precious Metal | Features | Benefits |
---|---|---|
Gold | Available in yellow, white, and rose hues; malleable; does not tarnish | Timeless appeal; easy to resize; hypoallergenic (white and rose gold) |
Platinum | Highly durable; naturally white; does not tarnish; hypoallergenic | Long-lasting; low maintenance; ideal for sensitive skin |
Silver | More affordable; malleable; easy to resize; naturally white | Cost-effective; versatile for various designs; develops a patina over time |
Palladium | Lightweight; naturally white; hypoallergenic; does not tarnish | Comfortable to wear; low maintenance; ideal for sensitive skin |
This table provides an overview of the features and benefits of using gold, silver, platinum, and palladium for wedding bands. Each metal offers unique advantages in terms of appearance, durability, and cost, allowing couples to choose the option that best suits their needs and preferences.
One popular motif in handcrafted elvish wedding rings is the eternal love knot, symbolizing the unbreakable bond between two souls. This intricate design typically features intertwined vines, leaves, or lines, representing the couple's intertwining destinies and shared journey through life. The eternal love knot serves as a beautiful and meaningful reminder of the enduring nature of love and commitment, making it an ideal choice for couples who share a deep connection to the world of Lord of the Rings.
Uncover the meaning behind the elvish love knot, a popular design element in handcrafted wedding rings, and how it symbolizes the unbreakable bond and eternal connection between two individuals who are joined in marriage.
Discuss the timeless appeal of handcrafted elvish love knot wedding rings, exploring how their intricate designs and deep symbolism have captivated couples for generations and continue to be a popular choice for wedding bands.
Examine the artistry and craftsmanship behind the creation of elvish love knot designs, highlighting the intricate interlacing patterns and attention to detail that make these handcrafted wedding rings truly exceptional.
Ensuring the perfect fit for handcrafted elvish wedding rings is essential for comfort and longevity. Couples should visit a professional jeweler to have their fingers accurately measured, taking into account factors such as finger shape, ring width, and potential size fluctuations due to temperature or weight changes. It's also important to consider the ring's design when determining the ideal fit, as intricate patterns or engravings may affect the overall feel and comfort of the band.
Learn the best methods for accurately measuring your finger to determine the perfect ring size for your handcrafted elvish wedding ring, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit that will last a lifetime.
Understand the importance of proper sizing for handcrafted elvish wedding rings, and how a well-fitted band not only feels comfortable but also enhances the beauty and longevity of the ring.
Explore various factors that can affect ring size, such as climate and lifestyle changes, and learn how to account for these variables when choosing the ideal size for your handcrafted elvish wedding ring.
Across the globe, countless couples have chosen handcrafted elvish wedding rings to symbolize their love and commitment, each with a unique and inspiring story. From fans who met at a Tolkien-themed event to those who bonded over a shared love of Lord of the Rings, these couples have found ways to incorporate their passion for Middle-earth into their wedding celebrations. By choosing handcrafted elvish wedding rings, they not only pay tribute to the epic tales that brought them together but also create a lasting symbol of their own love story, as enchanting and timeless as the world that inspired it.
Read heartwarming stories from real-life couples who have chosen handcrafted elvish wedding rings to symbolize their love, and how their shared passion for Tolkien's world has played a role in their relationships and marriages.
Discover how handcrafted elvish wedding rings have been an integral part of unforgettable weddings, adding a touch of magic and romance to these special occasions and creating lasting memories for couples and their guests.
Celebrate the lifelong journey of love and adventure that handcrafted elvish wedding rings represent, and how they serve as a constant reminder of the unique bond between two individuals who share a love for Tolkien's fantastical world.
As we celebrate the beauty of Middle-earth, it's crucial to consider the impact of our choices on the real world. Ethical sourcing of materials for handcrafted elvish wedding rings is an important aspect of this process. Couples can opt for fair trade and conflict-free gemstones, as well as recycled or sustainably-mined metals, to ensure their rings are crafted with minimal environmental and social impact. By working with artisans who share these values, couples can create stunning wedding bands that honor both the beauty of Tolkien's world and the well-being of our own.
Delve into the ethical considerations involved in the creation of handcrafted elvish wedding rings, from responsible sourcing of materials to fair labor practices, and how these factors contribute to the overall value and meaning of the rings.
Understand the importance of choosing fair trade and responsibly sourced gemstones for your handcrafted elvish wedding rings, and learn how to identify and select ethical options that align with your values.
Explore the benefits of using recycled metals in the creation of handcrafted elvish wedding rings, and how choosing eco-friendly materials can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible jewelry industry.
Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and durability of handcrafted elvish wedding rings. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth or a gentle solution of warm water and mild dish soap can help keep rings looking their best. It's also important to remove rings during activities that could cause damage, such as sports, gardening, or heavy lifting. Couples should have their rings professionally inspected and serviced periodically to ensure the integrity of the metal and gemstones, as well as the overall appearance of the bands.
Learn the best practices for cleaning and maintaining your handcrafted elvish wedding ring, ensuring that its beauty and intricate details remain pristine and magical for years to come.
Discover the situations in which it is best to remove your handcrafted elvish wedding ring to protect it from damage, wear, or loss, and how to safely store your ring when it is not being worn.
Understand the special care and precautions required for handcrafted elvish wedding rings featuring gemstones, and learn how to protect and preserve the stones' beauty and brilliance.
"Ready to forge your unique love story with a handcrafted elvish wedding ring? Connect with our skilled artisans today and begin your enchanting journey toward the perfect symbol of your everlasting love. Click here to get started!"
Selecting the right artisan or jeweler to create your handcrafted elvish wedding rings is crucial for ensuring the quality, craftsmanship, and overall satisfaction with your bands. Begin your search by exploring reputable jewelers with a proven track record of creating elvish-inspired designs, and don't be afraid to ask for references or testimonials from previous clients. It's also essential to establish a strong rapport with your chosen artisan, as this will help ensure effective communication and a smooth process as you collaborate to bring your vision to life. By taking the time to find the perfect creator, you'll be well on your way to forging a beautiful and lasting symbol of your love story, inspired by the magic of Middle-earth.
Get to know some of the most talented and skilled artisans in the field of handcrafted elvish wedding rings, and learn about their unique approaches, techniques, and philosophies that set them apart from others in the industry.
Learn about the custom design process for handcrafted elvish wedding rings, from initial consultation and concept development to final production, and how to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience as you create your dream rings.
Reflect on the enduring appeal and timeless beauty of handcrafted elvish wedding rings, and how these exquisite pieces of jewelry not only celebrate your love for one another but also serve as cherished heirlooms to be passed down through generations.
In the enchanting realm of Middle-earth, epic love stories are forged and destinies intertwined, just as they are in our own world. By choosing handcrafted elvish wedding rings inspired by Lord of the Rings, you and your partner can celebrate your unique love story in a way that reflects your shared passion for the timeless tales of Tolkien. As you embark on your journey toward wedded bliss, let these exquisite bands serve as a constant reminder of the magic, adventure, and enduring love that you share. So, forge ahead and weave the enchanting threads of Middle-earth into your own tale of love and devotion, creating a story that will stand the test of time.
"Transform your love story into a Middle-earth masterpiece with our exquisite handcrafted elvish wedding rings. Don't let this magical opportunity pass you by! Explore our stunning collection and find the perfect ring to unite your destinies. Browse our selection now!"
Here is a list of the most common questions and answers related to handcrafted elvish wedding rings inspired by Lord of the Rings:
Q: How much do handcrafted elvish wedding rings cost?
A: The cost of handcrafted elvish wedding rings can vary greatly depending on the choice of materials, intricacy of the design, and the expertise of the artisan. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars for simple silver bands to several thousand dollars for intricate, custom designs crafted in gold or platinum.
Q: How long does it take to create a custom elvish wedding ring?
A: The creation process for custom elvish wedding rings can vary depending on the complexity of the design and the artisan's schedule. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to complete a custom ring.
Q: Can I have my elvish wedding ring engraved with a personalized message or quote?
A: Yes, many artisans offer custom engraving services, allowing you to include a personalized message, quote, or even Tengwar script on your handcrafted elvish wedding ring.
Q: How can I find a reputable artisan to create my handcrafted elvish wedding ring?
A: Researching online, visiting local jewelers, and seeking recommendations from friends or online communities can help you find reputable artisans who specialize in creating elvish-inspired wedding rings. Be sure to review their portfolios and ask for testimonials from previous clients to ensure the quality of their work.
Q: Are elvish wedding rings suitable for everyday wear?
A: Yes, elvish wedding rings crafted from high-quality materials, such as gold, platinum, or palladium, are generally durable and suitable for everyday wear. However, it's essential to care for your ring properly, such as removing it during activities that could cause damage and cleaning it regularly.
Q: Can I choose any gemstone for my handcrafted elvish wedding ring?
A: Most artisans will work with you to incorporate your preferred gemstone into your handcrafted elvish wedding ring. However, it's essential to consider the durability and practicality of the chosen gemstone, as some may be more prone to scratches or damage during daily wear.
Q: How can I ensure that the materials used in my handcrafted elvish wedding ring are ethically sourced?
A: When working with an artisan or jeweler, it's essential to discuss your preferences for ethically sourced materials, such as fair trade gemstones or recycled metals. Reputable artisans should be able to provide information about the origins of their materials and their commitment to ethical sourcing practices.
"Celebrate your love with the elegance and mystique of Middle-earth by choosing a handcrafted elvish wedding ring. Begin your unforgettable adventure today by scheduling a personal consultation with our expert artisans. Embark on your journey toward eternal love—book your appointment here!"
Below is a list of sources and citations related to the topic of handcrafted elvish wedding rings inspired by Lord of the Rings:
Please note that some of these sources may not be directly related to handcrafted elvish wedding rings but provide valuable information and context on the inspiration behind these unique pieces of jewelry—the world and stories created by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Congratulations Rhys and Anita!
Rhys and Anita Elopement Ring
Congratulations Dan and Alawna!
Dan and Alawna built a custom engagement ring with us and were kind enough to share their engagement photos and story. We loved creating an unforgettable experience for Dan and Alawna.It’s around 100 years since kiwi were last seen or heard in the hills around Nelson City, but a collaboration between Nelson jeweller Jens Hansen and the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary Trust means it may not be that long before they return.
The sponsorship from Jens Hansen will see a percentage of proceeds from the iconic Golden Kiwi jewellery line going into the Jens Hansen Kiwi Establishment Fund to support the re-introduction of kiwi into the fenced sanctuary.
Stuff Nelson Mail Golden Kiwi helping bring kiwi home to Nelson sanctuary
Golden Kiwi helping bring kiwi home to Nelson sanctuary
The Jens Hansen Golden Kiwi pendant was created in 2015 as a tribute to New Zealanders’ affection for their national bird. The first pendant made was given as a gift from Nelson City to the Duchess of Cornwall when she visited Nelson with the Prince of Wales in November that year.
Halfdan Hansen said the fund was created when he was looking for a regional conservation project to support, in particular kiwi.
“We approached the Sanctuary and found out they were keen to introduce kiwi here, so we started to talk about how we could help. We love our Golden Kiwi pendant and the Silver Kiwi ring and could feel a natural connection between these pieces of jewellery and the vision of the Sanctuary to introduce kiwi to Nelson.”
Jens Hansen is a significant exporter of Nelson jewellery, with pieces worn by people from all over the world.
“The Golden Kiwi pendant is one of our most popular pieces – it symbolises everything people love about New Zealand and our beautiful native birds,” says Halfdan. “That was why we felt it was the perfect gift for the Duchess of Cornwall, to mark her visit here in 2015. Given her and Prince Charles’ interest in conservation, we have written to her to let her know about the collaboration with the Sanctuary.
Ru Collin, Chief Executive of the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, says that the Jens Hansen Kiwi Establishment Fund will enable some base funding to build up, as bringing kiwi to Nelson will take a few years to come to fruition.
“It could be four years before we can bring kiwi into the sanctuary,” says Ru. “We will consult with iwi and wait for birds to become available through the Department of Conservation. Having a project establishment fund will enable us to prepare for their introduction.”
The most likely candidate for release into the Sanctuary is the little spotted kiwi, which is endemic throughout New Zealand, so there is no issue with the genetics of north and south island species.
In preparation, the Sanctuary Trust is working on ensuring the native habitat within the Sanctuary fence is ideal for kiwi to thrive.
“We could easily support 100 pairs here eventually,” says Ru. “The Sanctuary is in great shape and regenerating well.”
The Sanctuary is now free of grazing pests like goats, deer, possums and pigs, all of which were damaging the bush and preventing new regeneration, and the removal of predatory pests like rats and stoats means that native birds can breed in safety within the Sanctuary’s fenced area.
“The work that the Sanctuary is doing to bring nature back to Nelson is so important,” says Halfdan. “Many of our kiwi pendants wing their way overseas, often to Kiwis living in the far-flung corners of the world where they treasure something that reminds them of home. So it’s extra special to us that we can use this fund to help bring the amazing birds back to their own native home here in Nelson.”
Hansen says he encourages other businesses to contribute to the fund, so that the Sanctuary is ready, when the kiwi are ready to come.
]]>A perfect blend of symbol and luscious beauty.
Simple or super-sparkly? Choose the Golden Kiwi you love best.
"The kiwi holds a special place in our hearts. We created our Golden Kiwi to celebrate that spirit in the most beautiful way possible."
For those who carve their own path, journey with courage, and wear jewellery with joy.
The Beauty Of An Elvish Wedding
An Elvish wedding is especially romantic. Often held in a peaceful woodsy location or indoors with lots of plants and flowers, an Elvish wedding has an otherworldly feel -- there’s a sense that our regular lives have been put aside and replaced by a realm filled with magical charm. The mystical beauty of Elvish wedding clothes and the entrancing language of the vows and rituals create an unforgettable experience.
World’s Most Beautiful Elvish Engagement and Wedding Rings
For lovers of Elven lore, it’s deeply meaningful to choose and wear engraved Elvish engagement and wedding rings, and our Jens Hansen jewellers help couples all over the world make their precious selections. Our photo archives are full of happy lovers showing off their gorgeous rings and some of those photos are taken in actual Lord of the Rings movie locations in New Zealand!
Some clients prefer to design their own Elvish-style rings and work closely with our custom ring specialists, others choose from our classic designs which they personalise with unique engravings in Elvish or the language of their choice. There are no rules -- what matters is that you choose rings that best speak to your own personal language of love.
View our beautiful range of Elvish engagement and wedding rings.
How To Propose In Elvish with Video
A wedding proposal is a moment in time so romantic and full of promise it’s forever etched in memory -- a story that will be told and passed on. The moment when life changes from me to we, and ahead lies a road you’ll travel together using a compass of love.
For those immersed in Elven lore, proposing in the Elvish language is a beautiful way to express your love and intentions. Our Elvish proposal video includes the key phrases you might wish to incorporate into your proposal.
Ethereal and extraordinarily beautiful with medieval design touches, an Elvish bride’s wedding dress can feature trailing, semi-sheer bell sleeves, lace and embroidery on a fitted, dropped-waist bodice, a flowing skirt, and in her hair fresh flowers or a simple tiara. Elvish clothing for the groom can incorporate elaborate knee-length tunics or coats with braiding, stitching and buttons, as well as capes, waist sashes and long boots. There are many wonderful Elvish-style designs on the internet so prepare to be inspired.
Create An Enchanting Elvish Wedding Scene
Creating an unforgettable Elvish wedding is about keeping romance at the heart of every planning decision. Start the magic by designing wedding invitations featuring Elvish words and, instead of the usual cards in envelopes, roll them into scrolls and tie with silk. If your ceremony is outside, use the natural beauty of your surroundings to enhance the woodland theme -- twine ribbons around trees and string plenty of fairy lights for a charming twinkly effect If you’re marrying indoors, create your own ethereal forest with plenty of potted plants, small trees and flower arrangements, and talk to your florist about creating a canopy of branches. Tables can be beautifully and simply decorated with lots of tea light candles, trailing greenery, scattered rose petals, posies of flowers and place names calligraphed on little rocks for guests’ take-home gifts. There are so many lovely ways to make your day memorable; take your time and choose what best represents your love.
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These Ole Lynggaard earrings carry a secret: each perfect design can be mixed and matched with other collection pieces to create different combinations for all your occasions and moods. From gem-centric elegant evening to playful bohemian luxe, these pieces can be added to over time, allowing you to build your own vibrant jewellery vision, a one-of-a-kind selection in harmony with your lifestyle and beauty-sense.
" New Zealand's natural beauty, which brought Tolkien's stories to life, is the ethereal inspiration for our Elvish-style jewelry "
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Creating elvish-inspired jewelry comes naturally to the goldsmiths of Jens Hansen in Nelson, New Zealand. We’re surrounded by inspiration - our towering snow-tipped mountains, vast emerald-green forests, ice-fed rivers and, hidden beneath the earth, dark labyrinths with secret caves few can visit. There are echoes of this country in each precious piece of our jewelry. Wear it, and feel the power and passion of our land.
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Yours, From $319
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Available with a range of gemstones, from Natural Ruby to Mozambique Garnet
All Prices in USD
The scent of flowers, sunshine (ok, a little rain too), and the sweet promise of summer ahead are signs it's time to indulge in our stunning range of gold jewellery. Add a pop of colour, a sparkle to your finger, some laidback luxe round your wrist or neck, and a touch of elegance to your ears.
$3149.00
Pop instore to view these pieces, or get in touch if you are interested in any of these pieces in the metal of your choice!
I remember when Jens had his workshop with fellow jeweller Gavin Hitchings across the road from our family’s Wilkins and Field hardware store in Hardy Street.
My father was very close with Jens. Back in the day they indulged in long Friday lunches. Because they were great friends, I would visit the workshop as a child. The image of these very blonde small children of Jens’, Thorkild and Halfdan Hansen, at the workshop is very strong. I also remember the creaking wooden floorboards, and all this amazing jewellery. Even as a child I could appreciate it.
Jens gave me a silver bangle when I was only about 10 but unfortunately I no longer have this piece, but I do have other of his jewellery. I have the Jens Hansen gold diamond ring my mother gave me in 2010. Jens reworked it from some of her old gold jewellery. It’s a reasonably slim ring with three diamonds in geometric settings. I love it. I definitely think Jens’ jewellery is quite different and really before its time. You would look at my ring today and think it’s modern.
I was given my mother’s smoky quartz Legacy Collection ring when she passed away three years ago. You’d always notice it when she wore it. It’s very special to me. I love the quality, tradition and the family connection between Jens’ family and mine. He was the only jeweller in Nelson you would go to, and then to have his son taking it over now – that’s special.
On the 21st of August, our in-house photographer and laser engraver, Maniana, was married to Alexis Heywood. We want to wish you both a huge congratulations - truly a beautiful and unique ceremony. I asked Maniana to talk us through her special day, and the creative process of her ring design.
“When Alexis proposed to me he said choose any ring I wanted, I was so happy because I am not a traditional diamond loving person, I prefer cabochon stones and I had had my eye on this classic Jens Hansen design for a while! London blue topaz is one of my favourite colours, dark teal, as well as red which you can probably tell by my choice of wearing a red wedding dress. My band was inspired by the wishbone style wedding bands I have seen which are usually pave set with lots of sparkling diamonds but I wanted something simple and sculpted that would match my engagement ring perfectly. I had Zane CAD design my ring, which was an awesome process."
"Alexis spoke to Simon about his wedding band design who tested out different custom finishes on a flat band and he picked out his favourite which was these hammered vertical lines that reminded him of tree bark. We planned our whole wedding in about two weeks, it was very spontaneous and ended up being the most perfect day ever! We stayed at Kimi Ora Eco resort in Kaiteriteri and only invited our close family, it was perfect. Thank you to the amazing team at Jens Hansen for making our dream rings, we will cherish them forever.”
Take a look at some more photos below of the beautiful day - and get in touch here to enquire about custom making some rings for your own special day. Click the images to see more.
We would love to acknowledge:
Mia Crochett Photography: https://www.facebook.com/miacrockettphotography / https://www.instagram.com/miacrockettphotography/
Happy days!
In my early 20’s I used to work at David Monopoli’s hair salon and Jens was a client. David would cut Jens’ hair and the conversations were fascinating. Jens’ jewellery was so distinctive, and many clients would come in wearing gorgeous pieces. Doesn’t it seem that somehow, somewhere we all have some sort of connection to Jens Hansen?
We moved away for a few years, and I really wanted to take a “piece” of Nelson with me - and what’s more iconic Nelson than Jens Hansen jewellery? My favourite colour is orange; I was immediately drawn to a classic silver ring with an orange stone and to this day I still love it. Every morning my wedding band goes on and so does my Jens Hansen ring, I don’t feel complete unless I’ve got it on.
My daughter will inherit this ring, for me it’s an heirloom piece. I like that it has special meaning. that’s important to me.
I’ve also got a Jens Hansen silver bangle that I adore, which was a wonderful Christmas present. And there’s the Golden Kiwi pendant that my husband Chris bought for me at a fundraising auction. Simple, gorgeous and so meaningful.
I see Jens Hansen pieces as having a beautiful simplicity that is timeless; there is something unique about the Jens Hansen style. For me, buying Jens Hansen represents a connection to a legacy.
In the 70’s and 80’s everyone knew Jens. He was new to town and he was innovative. His jewellery was very different, much more flamboyant than anything else around. Before then it seems like it was all pretty, little gold rings with little diamonds.
My husband and I were quite friendly with a radio officer who worked on a ship. He was building a house out in Richmond. He said to me that if I chose the carpet for him and organised for it to be done, he would buy me a stone when he was in Colombo. He came back with a blue star sapphire, and Jens custom-designed a ring for me incorporating the stone. It’s very striking. I also have a custom-made Jens Hansen gold ring with a little blue star sapphire and a diamond.
The diamond came from a ring that was left behind at our house when the kids were teenagers. We had gone away for the weekend and the kids had a party. Someone went through the house and stole things, like a beautiful jacket of my husband’s. When I went into the bedroom, there was a little diamond ring and an old brooch lying there that
someone must have left behind. We handed it in to the police and after six months no one had claimed it, so we were given it.
The blue star sapphire came from a pretty, little ring my mother-in-law gave me. Jens incorporated both stones into a new piece for me. It looks lovely worn together with my other blue star sapphire ring and a plain gold band in between.
My husband gave me a silver bangle for our 25th wedding anniversary in 1981. He knew by then that I loved Jens’ jewellery. I still wear the bangle.
I’ve also got an aquamarine ring made by Jens. I bought it in the late 70s or early 80s when I was working as a teacher – I wanted something special. Jens was in the shop and talked with me, suggesting what could work. I picked out the stone and said I wanted something plain and biggish, I don’t really have dainty hands. He designed it, and I love it.
Everywhere I go, no matter which one I am wearing, people say to me “I love your ring.”
A visit to the Jens Hansen workshop was one of my first experiences when I arrived in Nelson 22 years ago. I was in the process of moving back to New Zealand from Melbourne, and working out where to live.
I flew into Nelson, and like many visitors, stayed at the Rutherford Hotel and wandered around the corner and peered into the Jens Hansen window. It was the first store I went into and I fell in love. All the jewellery was absolutely beautiful.
I don’t wear a lot of jewellery, so I’m quite particular about what I own. I have four Jens Hansen rings - I love simple jewellery and I really appreciate the quality of the Jens Hansen design. I quite like getting jewellery as a gift, my husband Richard knows that, and sometimes I help him choose. It needs to be something I’ll have for a lifetime!
I like that Jens Hansen is more than just jewellery. It’s the experience of purchasing from the team – they make you feel like part of the family. When you own a piece of Jens Hansen, it truly is a lifelong connection to the Nelson story. You wear it with the heart that’s gone into it.
Richard and I both wanted to get married but hadn’t decided when. Then one day, after a funeral, Richard said, “I want to make a stronger connection with you. The thought of sitting there at your funeral not being married to you…” It was a really significant moment.
We got my engagement ring and wedding band from Jens Hansen. We chose one of Jens’ original designs. It’s a platinum engagement ring with a diamond solitaire, and a matching platinum wedding band set with pavé diamonds. My daughter covets my rings. It’s legacy jewellery and she’s made it very clear that the legacy is hers when the time comes! This jewellery has a striking yet simple asymmetrical form that I really love.
We decided to make it official when all our children were back in Nelson from overseas, a rare occurrence. We organised a special dinner together at home and Richard presented the ring to me.
As one of the jewellers who had the privilege of making a ring for The Lord of the Rings, our customers want to know more about the rings associated with J.R.R. Tolkien and the famous trilogy. Although a few other rings existed, The Lord of the Rings trilogy primarily focuses on 20 Rings of Power. These rings were divided among characters in the story: three rings went to the elves, seven rings went to the dwarves, nine to men, and one to the Dark Lord Sauron. Adoring fans from around the world continue to seek out replicas and design their own versions of the rings, including the three elvish rings.
At Jens Hansen, we are fans of Tolkien's magical and fantastical stories and we want to help you learn everything you can when searching for the perfect Elvish ring to add to your collection. Our guide to Elvish rings offers a little context and mythology about the Elvish rings, types of Elvish rings you can buy today, and descriptions about the elements of an Elvish ring so you can make the best decision for you when purchasing. If you want to further expand your jewellery collection, we also provide some information on other types of elvish jewellery.
Elves have a long history in folklore, mythology, literature, and movies. Yet, they take on a slightly different form or meaning wherever they appear. Elves first appeared in Germanic folklore and Norse mythology. In Germanic folklore, elves are small, supernatural beings who don't care too much about humans. English literature sometimes conflates elves with fairies, but in fact, elves are a type of fairy. Some folklore depicts elves as small and childlike, not any taller than four feet and with green complexions.
Norse mythology is responsible for providing magical elements to elves, who were minor gods of fertility and nature that were separate from the Aesir, who were the gods of Norse mythology. Scandinavian traditions ultimately separated elves into good, white elves and evil, black elves. Today's popular images of mischievous, magical sprites living below ground and hating humans are rooted in Scandinavian folklore and traditions. When J.R.R. Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings in the early 1900s, he reconciled many competing images and descriptions of elves and depicted them as humans who were more artistic, more beautiful, and lived longer. In the movie adaptations of Tolkien's work, Peter Jackson stays true to Tolkien's vision and portrays elves as graceful and wise entities who have supernatural powers, who look like humans with pointed ears, long hair, and no facial hair.
The idea and creation of elvish rings emerged from Tolkien's writings. The three magical rings created by the Elves of Eregion allowed the elves to stop time in their realms, protect, and heal. In The Lord of the Rings, the three elvish rings were made last and named after the elements of fire, water, and air. Here is a more detailed description of the materials and powers of the Three Rings:
Today's elvish rings do not have magical powers, but they do serve as elegant pieces to any jewellery collection. In fact, some fans of Tolkien, The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings have chosen to interweave their love for fantasy and all things Tolkien by using elvish ring designs for their engagement and wedding rings. Learn more about Jens Hansen's by reading our Engagement Ring Buyers Guide.
Many superfans of The Lord of the Rings informally and formally participate in Live Action Role Playing (LARP). If you have attended a LARP event, you have likely seen replicas of the Three Rings and other Rings of Power as participants reenact scenes from the trilogy. Whether you are in the United States, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or elsewhere, you can find a LARP guild or club that holds events for you to flaunt an elvish ring.
In some cases, superfans choose not to wear their replica rings but instead keep them protected as one of many collectibles from the movies. The popularity of The Lord of the Rings trilogy has also spawned interest in collecting items from the movie, including replicas of the Three rings. These collectibles are an investment, and the rarest of them fetch the most money for those who resell.
J.R.R. Tolkien's writings have drawn fantasy-lovers of all ages from all over the world for almost a century. Yet, Peter Jackson's movie adaptation of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings catapulted Tolkien and his stories to a higher level. Even if someone hasn't seen read the book or seen the movie, they know something about The Lord of the Rings. The global appeal of Tolkien and his stories translates into the same global appeal for elvish rings and other elvish jewellery, not only for superfans but for those who want an interesting item to add to their collection or a special way to show love with an engagement or wedding ring.
When you are searching for the perfect elvish engagement ring or simply a stunning elvish ring to add to your collection, a wide variety awaits you. Below we offer information about each of the elements of an elvish ring, so you have the knowledge you need to choose the perfect elvish ring for you.
The ring we made for The Lord of the Rings was yellow gold and Vilya, the most powerful of the Three rings was also depicted as a gold ring. Although you cannot find a ring forged in Tolkien's fictional metal, white gold, sometimes mixed with titanium, makes the perfect shimmery substitute. Finally, red gold elvish rings honor the Ring of Fire.
Rubies, sapphires, and diamonds make the perfect precious gemstones for elvish rings, nicely representing Tolkien's Red Ring, Blue Ring, and White Ring.
Elvish rings typically have simple, but stylish, heavy bands. More petite bands are available for women. You can find elvish rings with several different types of settings to match your style and preference. Yet, prong, bezel, and invisible settings complement the simplicity of the band, making them a popular choice for elvish rings.
The inscription is easily the most popular, recognizable, and stunning feature of an elvish ring, and no elvish ring is complete without one. It's the distinctive language and writing that sets elvish rings apart regardless of their metal, stone, or setting. One of the best ways to translate from Elvish to English is through the Tengewar writing system, but we want to make it simple for you. Check out our English to Elvish Engraving Translator, so you know the elvish characters for your name or phrase.
FUN FACT: Tolkien made up his first language when he was a teenager and the stories of Middle Earth began with the languages he made up. Tolkien created 15 different Elvish languages throughout his writings. Fans contributed words and phrases to some of the dialects so they could use the languages in real life.
In case we didn't mention it, Jens Hansen designed the most famous ring in the world—The One Ring—featured in The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogies. You can choose from one of our movie replicas or you can customize your own elvish ring. Either choice leaves you with a majestic collector's item to hold onto for ages and pass on as a family heirloom.
You can find many movie replica rings online and around the world, but none are as authentic and accurate as the Jens Hansen Movie Rings. Our replica rings are exact recreation of the original ring design we used for Peter Jackson's movie prop ring. These rings are only made from solid precious metals and they are not licensed merchandise souvenirs. You can choose from gold, silver, and other precious metals to create a piece for your ring collection.
Choose the perfect elvish ring for your collection by customizing your own ring. We offer petite, little, and standard band sizes for our elvish rings. You can also choose to customize a matching set of couples rings or a wedding set. Once you choose the band and metal you want, your next step is to decide on the stone, and finally, you can come up with your own clever inscription to truly personalize your ring or set.
Whether you want to round out your elvish ring collection with some other pieces, or you are looking for a gift for a friend, you can consider other types of stylish and sophisticated elvish jewellery.
Those who want an elvish pendant to match their elvish ring will love the Wanderers Circle. This piece is a recreation of our movie replica ring. In fact, it has the same profile, size, and weight as the ring Frodo wears in the films. The difference is that the curved face of the ring effectively rotated through 90 degrees to create a torus shape allowing the pendant to sit flat and all the engraving to be seen at once. Like our elvish rings, the inscription that flows around the circle stands out as a noticeable and unique feature. We can engrave the pendant in all languages, but you can create a distinctive necklace by getting your own elvish words inscribed. We offer The Wanderers Circle in yellow gold, red gold, white gold & platinum, and sterling silver.
Our classic signet rings are available unengraved or can be custom engraved with the symbols or text of your choice. For those who love personalization, we also offer monogrammed signet rings, but with a twist. We have collaborated with Daniel Reeve, calligrapher for The Lord of the Rings movies, to offer Elven Monograms. You can have your first and last initial inscribed on the signet ring in the Elven-inspired alphabet that Reeve created especially for Jens Hansen. Our Elfish signet rings have the same curved band shape characteristic of our movie replica rings, but we offer five different signet rings style. Each signet ring comes in one of ten face shape and size combinations in the precious metal of your choice: yellow gold, red gold, white gold and platinum.
After reading the Jens Hansen Definitive Guide to Elvish Rings, you should have a better understanding of how to choose the perfect elvish ring to add to your personal collection. We hope this new information has been helpful and answered all your questions about elvish rings, so you feel confident about your purchase. We urge you to share our guide with all of your fellow The Lord of the Rings and J.R.R. Tolkien fans. If you have questions beyond this guide or want to schedule a custom ring consultation, contact us via telephone during New Zealand business hours at +64 3 548 0640, by email or you can book an online call and appointment with us.
I have bought several pieces from Jens Hansen over the years. The thing I love about Jens Hansen jewellery is the quality. You can go in and design something very special, and they’ll create it for you. It’s nice to have something unique that you won’t find anywhere else.
I designed one of my favourite rings with the Jens Hansen team. It’s a brushed gold nugget style ring with a silver band. I saw a smaller one and wanted something bigger, so they made it for me, but with a brushed finish rather than pitted. I wear it all the time.
I had some jewellery stolen in a burglary about four years ago and it gave me the opportunity to reassess what I had and what I loved. I would rather have a few really special pieces than a whole lot. I had a silver chain necklace specially made. I liked the smaller links I saw on a bracelet in the shop, and asked for a similar style in a necklace.
My sons are now 27 and 25. For their 21st birthdays, I had the same cufflinks made for each of them. I created the design and the Jens Hansen jewellers turned it into a reality. For my son Sam’s wedding, they both wore the cufflinks and we have a photo of me putting them on Sam. It’s very special. They’ll last forever.
I buy Jens Hansen jewellery for gifts, both personal and professional. It’s nice to give people something that’s special from Nelson. Jens Hansen is far from run-of-the-mill jewellery. It is unique, solid and not mass-produced. I like the simplicity of the design, the craftmanship and the depth of connection to the region. I’m very passionate about this region and I like supporting local artisans and businesses.
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“My Nelson Ring means a lot to me because I love this place. I wear it all the time."
My Jens Hansen piece is a silver ring representing my home. I got The Nelson Ring when I was in Dancing for a Cause in 2018, raising funds for the Nelson Tasman Hospice. A table of my colleagues bid on it for me in the auction. I heard my name being called out from backstage and I thought, “that can’t be right, I’m not bidding on anything.” It was a lovely surprise!
It was very good of the Jens Hansen workshop to donate it as the hospice is such a great cause. When the organisers of Dancing for a Cause asked me to dance, I couldn’t say no. As a surgeon, I believe the hospice service is hugely important. I deal mostly with cancer surgery and sadly some of my patients will need hospice care.
When Dancing for a Cause sold out to 1200 people, I thought “Why am I doing this in front of half of Nelson?” I was in a 15-year-old’s leotard! The ring must’ve been a good omen because I ended up winning the competition.
It’s a simple band with Farewell Spit, Golden Bay and Tasman Bay carved into it. My Nelson Ring means a lot to me because I love this place. I wear it all the time. I like Jens Hansen jewellery because its often so smooth, solid and tactile. I like its simplicity. I’m not really into delicate stuff. I have to be careful with jewellery as I take it off for surgery and have a tendency to misplace it. I don’t want to lose this one!
Congratulations, you're getting engaged!
Now, about that ring. For many couples, choosing a ring can be as stressful as the decision to get married. Use these tips to help you find the perfect engagement ring online.
]]>Congratulations, you're getting engaged!
Now, about that ring. For many couples, choosing a ring can be as stressful as the decision to get married. And ring shopping ... ugh! All those blinding stones staring at you while a salesperson adds that you should plan to spend three months salary on the ring. Fun fact--that "three months salary rule" was developed as an ad promotion by the DeBeers diamond mining company, so they have a vested interest in encouraging you to discard your better judgment whilst at the jewellers. Don't buy into this false narrative-- and definitely don't buy a ring that's overpriced.
You've likely bought a number of items over the internet, so why not buy your engagement ring online? There are some advantages to ring shopping online--you can do it at your leisure, and decide what you and your fiancé love without salespeople there to influence or pressure you. Shopping online also expands your options to every jeweller across the globe; you're not limited to what your local shop has in their inventory. And here's a big bonus--buying your ring online can be considerably less expensive than purchasing from a brick-and-mortar retail shop.
Some of the finest jewellers in the world have online boutiques. Some bad actors who lack integrity are online too, so how do you know if you're shopping with a reputable diamond dealer?
Online reviews are helpful but not necessarily reliable, so look at the site's business policies first. Here's what to look for.
Ask friends and family where they bought their rings if you're not sure where to begin. Independent sellers who sell through websites like eBay and Etsy can be a bit risky; if you go that route check reviews and policies even more thoroughly, and it won't hurt to ensure your credit card company will cover any losses due to fraud.
Now, how exactly do you buy that engagement ring online? First, determine your budget. One pleasant surprise you'll find online is that rings are substantially less expensive than you'll find in a jewellery shop. Why? Because online jewellers don't have the overhead of their brick and mortar peers, and can pass those savings along to customers. You can be assured the quality of the ring is the same, you're just not contributing towards rent.
What style ring are you looking for? Is a classic diamond solitaire in white gold your style, or do you want an unusual stone in a modern rose gold setting? One of the great advantages of buying an engagement ring online is that you have unlimited choices.
If you haven't already, please read Jens Hansen's 2020 Engagement Ring Buyers Guide for a comprehensive look at the many options available.
If you love avant-garde jewellery, you can surely find a source that suits your taste online, just like you can find a platinum art deco ring with intricate detailing. If your heart is set on a bespoke ring, we can design the setting and source the stone to your specifications.
Whatever your preferences are for design, stone size and quality, budget, etc. take your time to look at many sites and vendors all over the globe to buy your perfect ring online.
Many online vendors are happy to provide a similar experience to that of going to a traditional retail store. You should work with a vendor that offers a way for you to ask questions, and to feel sufficiently educated and confident in your purchase.
Jens Hansen is known worldwide for our ecommerce site. We offer live chat services so you'll experience concierge-level service while you shop, working with an experienced consultant to choose exactly the right ring. We have a wonderful location in Nelson, New Zealand, but we work with customers all over the world via the internet. And even though we might be thousands of miles away, we always share in your joy, wherever you are.
If you would like to connect with our team to ask questions or learn more about buying engagement rings online you can book a consult here:
You are ready to propose but you are missing one key piece to the puzzle, the perfect engagement ring. The purchase of an engagement ring is a large investment and with so many options and price ranges, it is easy to feel lost in the sea of possibilities. If you have not taken a moment to do so; review the Jens Hansen's 2020 Engagement Ring Buyers Guide; where you will learn everything there is to know and consider when making an engagement ring selection. Now we will discuss how Jens Hansen's can help you find the right engagement ring for your budget.
The first step before beginning your engagement ring shopping should be to take a moment and decide on your budget. It is absolutely possible to purchase an affordable, yet unique and beautiful engagement ring for your loved one. At Jens Hansen we offer engagement ring options beginning at just $549.
When making an engagement ring purchase with a budget in mind it is best to do as much research as possible. Do not just focus on researching cost, but also keep in mind your partner's preferences. Make a list of what characteristics you would like in the ring such as the diamond shape, colour, metal, carats, and setting. Knowing what to look for will help you greatly in narrowing down your selections and researching options to keep you within your budget.
Decide ahead of time what is most important to you about the engagement ring. You have made a list delineating your wants and now you must take a moment to prioritize those wants. Prioritizing the engagement ring's characteristics will allow you to focus and hone in on the rings that are most likely to be the one for your loved one. As you weigh your priorities against your budget, you may not find a ring that meets every item on your list. Knowing what is most important to you, will allow you to keep your options open and find the often unexpected perfect engagement ring.
It is important to not rush through the process of purchasing an engagement ring. This is a large financial purchase that will last a lifetime. It is worth taking the extra time to research and browse to find the right ring for your engagement with your special someone.
Take advantage of Jens Hansen's free personal consultation over the phone, in person, or online to speak with a knowledgeable and friendly jewellery professional that can help you go over your options and discuss the possibilities of designing your custom engagement ring within your budget requirements.
Our team at Jens Hansen is experienced in helping our customers successfully find the engagement ring that is right for them. With our workmanship and satisfaction guarantee coupled with our various shipping options around the globe, you can feel secure in knowing we can help you get the ring of your dreams to your doorstep.
At Jens Hansen, our reputation is unmatched as Nelson's most established and only internationally recognized artisan jewellery shop in New Zealand. We take great pride in the craftsmanship and originality of our unique jewellery pieces. Jen Hansen has been creating beautiful jewellery since 1962 and has become an acclaimed international jeweller with satisfied customers around the globe. Many of our international customers have come to know us for our The One Ring collection, home to The World's Most Famous Ring designed and created by us for the "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy.
My Jens Hansen is a Danish “mourning ring”; a silver ring with a big silver dome. It’s beautiful.
The tradition with a mourning ring is that when the mother dies, she passes it on to the eldest daughter. In my family, it was my great grandmother Olive Field who had a mourning ring.She didn’t have any daughters, so my mum inherited it.
I had heard about the ring, but I didn’t know the details, and then when my Grandmother died, I was given it. It was bitter-sweet. It was a beautiful thing, what it signified, but it was upsetting too. When I wore it to the funeral it made me think about what had been before and what it represented, being a Field. I like the tradition of the mourning ring, because when I wear it, I feel a bit closer to my family; it reminds me of my grandmother and my great
grandmother.
I never met Olive. She passed away before I was born. The thing my mum always says about her is that she was very, very stylish and very, very mischievous. She wore amazing clothes that mum would borrow. These clothes would make all her friends jealous and they wouldn’t believe that they were her grandmother’s.
Mum has also given me some Jens Hansen earrings that were hers. The design is a bit like a ginkgo leaf, but more abstract. They hook through the ears in an unconventional way. They don’t hang like normal earrings. They kind of sit out and make a statement. When I think of Jens Hansen jewellery, I think of beautiful jewellery that’s made with love and thought. That’s what Jens Hansen represents for me.
My partner Marc always goes to Jens Hansen for gifts for me as he knows I love Jens Hansen jewellery and he feels like the team there gives him good advice. I actually have no idea how many pieces I’ve got. It’s a lot!
Marc and I have been together 26 years and he bought one of my favourite pieces about 16 years ago. It’s a ring in white and yellow gold, in a devil’s teeth design. It was almost like an engagement ring at the time. It’s really something special and I wear it every day. We weren’t particularly flush at the time, so it means a lot. It’s a keepsake.
I leave the choosing up to Marc, he’s good at it. Every time he’s bought something for me, he’s wowed me! My dad did the same for my mum.
My gold pendant is my most significant Jens Hansen piece. My pendant is like a talisman. It’s hard to explain, but it grounds me and has become my trademark. I always wear it for work as it makes me feel strong and helps me become Susa Guhl, Real Estate Agent. I wear it with a very simple black dress, and it is the hero, bringing any outfit together. I have black and white photos for work, but the pendant stands out in full colour. I’ve got a smaller green resin one in the same design that a friend bought for me, that I love also.
What I adore about Jens Hansen is that it’s timeless. I like silver a lot and they know what they’re doing with it. I love the classic Jens designs that he brought from Denmark and that the current jewellers continue to build on. I just love Jens Hansen jewellery. It talks to me.
Take a look at some of the pieces worn by Ra Vincent and Nancy Hennah at the Academy Awards
Jens was a larger-than-life guy. He and my partner Pete Rainey were great buddies. They really saw eye to eye.
My first Jens Hansen piece was a chunky moonstone ring in gold. Pete gave it to me just before Jens died in 1999. He and Jens decided that this was the ring for me, so there’s massive sentimental value to it. A lot of thought and love went into it. It’s such a stand-out piece. Everyone comments on it. It was the commitment ring from Pete. It says: “we’re in it forever, this is it.”
Most of my Jens Hansen jewellery are gifts Pete has given me as random acts of love. I have a bangle from the Jens Legacy Collection I got a couple of Christmases ago, and gold loop earrings with a hanging pendant. Whenever I put the earrings on, they just feel like there’s energy in them, like they’re talking to my personality. I haven’t chosen any of it. Pete’s bought it all.
Jens Hansen jewellery is sculptural. It’s creative and it’s exciting. I can imagine it in a gallery rather than a jewellery store. If I think of Jens the person, he had a very free will. His jewellery captures what I like to see in myself. He was such a force of nature and exuberant. He didn’t question the ‘why’, he would just do it. He never looked to the fashion. So, you could almost tell the type of women in Nelson who would be wearing Jens Hansen. Every single woman who was creating their own thing in Nelson were all Jens’ fans because in a jewellery sense it represented them. It was really cool. A lot of us were involved in saving the Boathouse years ago. On a Friday evening it was all these gorgeous women with Jens Hansen jewellery dripping off them, from their wrists, fingers or ears.
These days it’s still the same, but perhaps a bit more nostalgic. I could go into Jens Hansen and buy the whole shop in a flash. It’s part of my reason for not going in there too frequently. The essence of the original thinking is still there. Jens was phenomenal. He just went out there and decided this is what the women and men of Nelson need.
The tradition of jewellers and artists travelling the world to work alongside our jewellers in the Selwyn Place workshop continues. Talented French designer, illustrator and experimental jewellery maker Tony Furion has been working at the jewellery studio since September 2019 to create new classics from Jens’ originals.
Amongst other new designs, he has created a unique conceptual ring based on the much-loved
Golden Kiwi pendant. The Silver Kiwi Ring was released in October 2019, four years after the Golden
Kiwi pendant was launched when it was given by the City of Nelson to Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall. Tony started at the studio after falling in love with Nelson Tasman while travelling with his partner on a six-month backpacking trip around the country. The couple decided to find work in the region and Tony approached us due to our international reputation.
People from around the world contact us about working here pretty much every month - we get
emails or calls all the time from jewellers or those interested in apprenticeships. Halfdan was very impressed with Tony’s CV and design portfolio, so offered him a place at the workshop bench.
Before heading to New Zealand, for the past six years Tony had been developing his skills at jewellery store Morin in France.
In 2016, he completed his apprenticeship at the Jewellery Institute of Saumur in France, which is notably the largest institute in France of its kind, renowned for its calibre of jewellers.Tony was Valedictorian.
In 2017 for the Duodeci Paris, a platform that’s a true talent incubator, Tony created the ‘Eden’ high jewellery collection to great acclaim.
Halfdan says: “I thought I would give him some creative freedom to try to adapt existing Jens Hansen
designs using different materials, gems or shapes. It has been really cool to see what he has come up
with. He has a fresh take on our designs, he sees things that we don’t see because we are so close to
them. He has also been able to put his own style aside to get under the hood of what ours is.”
Tony says learning the minimalist Jens Hansen style has been a good challenge, as it is vastly different to his own delicate figurative style. Click here to see his designs for Jens Hansen.
To read about Tony in the media, click here.
Tony’s Silver Kiwi Ring Design
The idea for the Silver Kiwi ring came to Tony when he was looking through a Jens Hansen photo
book of classic designs.
“I was drawn to the timeless dome rings that Jens created decades ago. I experimented with
designing something in that curved, bubble style that incorporated the kiwi from the much-loved
Golden Kiwi pendant. I wanted to create something abstract, but when you know it’s a kiwi, you can
see its secret in a couple of different ways. It’s elegant and beautiful.”
Halfdan agrees: “I think it is an amazing design – very Jens Hansen. I never thought about turning the
Golden Kiwi pendant into a ring, but I let Tony roll with it to see what would happen. I am really glad
I did and am excited to add it to our collection of unisex rings.”
Citrine
Citrine is one of two birthstones for November including Imperial topaz, is considered the gemstone of Virgo and is the official 13th wedding anniversary gemstone to gift. Citrine which name has derived from the French name for lemon is one of the most affordable, yet durable of semi-precious gemstones on the market today.
Colours for Citrine range from gold, orange and brown shades of transparent quartz. Darker orange shades of Citrine which can be referred to as Maderia has generally been the most valuable colour which can work very nicely for mens jewellery pieces, while the brighter colours of Citrine are preferred for womans jewellery.
A lot of the Citrine on the market today is heat treated to obtain its attractive golden colour while natural Citrine is becoming increasingly rare and valuable being one of the few gemstones that will naturally occur in a yellow to orange colour. The colour from Citrine is thought to radiate positive energy and is known as the ‘success stone’ believed to promote prosperity and abundance, especially with situations involving business.
Because Citrine is easy to find with excellent transparency it is common to find eye-clean stones, leaving little reason to be purchasing stones with visible inclusions in them.
Brazil is the worlds leading supplier for Citrine with other sources ranging from Argentina, Bolivia, France, Madagascar, Burma, Namibia, Russia, Scotland, Spain, Uruguay and Zambia.
Tip : When buying coloured gemstones always purchase by size and not weight. Coloured gemstones may vary in size-to-weight ratio. Some stones are larger and others are smaller than diamond by weight in comparison.
Imperial Topaz is the birthstone of November along with Citrine; it is the stone representing Sagittarius and traditional gifting stone for the 23rd anniversary.
Yellow, or pink to red-orange and is known as ‘Imperial Topaz’ or ‘Precious Topaz’, this is the rarest colour of Topaz and is the most sought after of all natural Topaz.
Imperial Topaz is very durable and qualifies for any types of jewellery, it has a perfect cleavage grade as does diamonds which means the force of a single blow could cause the stone to split/fracture or part. Because of this it is recommended using a bezel setting for this type of stone for everyday wear jewellery such as rings.
It was believed by the Egyptians that the colour of Imperial Topaz was given by the golden glow of the mighty sun god, Ra. Because of this Imperial Topaz became a powerful amulet used by the faithful to protect against harm.
The fine golden-yellow imperial Topaz is relatively scarce, the most important deposit was found in Minas Gerais, Brazil.
Below are some example of blue Topaz which are stocked here at Jens Hansen Jewellers.
CONGRATULATIONS!
How did you get engaged?
Benny: I took the opportunity of having Rosa's mum and her partner visiting Nelson to pop the question. We all went out for a dinner at Arden to celebrate our 2 year anniversary, and I took some time between dinner and dessert to steal her away. I took a knee, stammered out a few sentences, and thankfully she said yes! After my heart stopped pounding, we went back to celebrate with her visiting family.
As much as I had grand designs on an elaborate proposal, I decided doing something simple while her mum was visiting from the other side of the world would be so special - for Rosa to be able to share and celebrate our good news with a part of her family present.
Why did you choose Jens Hansen for your ring? What went into the design process?
Benny: I chose to go to Jens Hansen for the design of Rosa’s engagement ring after learning about their involvement in the LOTR film franchise, and also because it meant we would have a wonderful story about our jewller in New Zealand to share for the rest of our lives. I had an idea of roughly what I wanted the ring to look like, but absolutely no idea of how to get it from a picture in my head onto my soon to be fiancee’s hand. This is where Miriam Hansen came in to help.
She helped me to understand what options I had, what would best suit Rosa's lifestyle and generally just took all the stress out of what seemed to be a very daunting task.
Rosa is a multi talented woman, she manages a local cafe, plays gigs around Nelson and also teaches yoga. That definitely played into the design, I wanted something feminine and delicate, but durable enough to stand a lifetime of working with her hands. Miriam was fantastic in pointing me towards the bezel style of ring which is perfect for her lifestyle.
Miriam sourced the emerald and 18ct gold, and I supplied some diamonds from my mother's old estate jewellery to end up with a beautiful one-of-a-kind ring.
The diamonds were a stroke of luck! I was talking to my mum in Australia about my intentions to start designing a ring, and she told me about some diamonds she had in surplus from some jewellery she was having redesigned. The emerald came from the fact that a lot of Rosa's jewellery featured turquoise and I wanted things to fit in with her regular style. Once I started doing a little research online, I fell in love with the teardrop shape, and decided that was what I wanted to base the ring around, rather than the usual solitaire engagement ring.
After we got engaged, I took Rosa back to see Miriam to personally thank her again for being a part of our journey.
I'm a fan of LOTR, not an avid one but I've thoroughly enjoyed the films and read the books over the years. It was important to me that we were able to take a part of our New Zealand adventures with us on our future journeys, and what could be a better tribute to NZ and Nelson than a ring from Jens Hansen? We joke that Rosa disappears to other men as soon as she puts it on!
We haven't yet set a date for the wedding (although that hasn't stopped her planning) but we are planning to get married in Scotland where we met, hopefully in two years or so.
A PROUD MOMENT FOR US!
NZ Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Jacinda Ardern was gifted the iconic Jens Hansen Nelson Ring at the official opening of Nelson Airport’s new terminal.
Halfdan Hansen from Jens Hansen jewellers says it is “cool” that the Prime Minister will be “taking a piece of Nelson Tasman everywhere she goes.”
“Sharing a ring with the leader of our country that is so uniquely representative of our home region is a huge honour,” says Hansen. “Now, even when she is not visiting us, the Prime Minister can wear a memory of Nelson Tasman every day.
Prime Minister Ardern receives the Nelson Ring on Saturday.
OFFICIAL MEDIA RELEASE
Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Jacinda Ardern was gifted the iconic Jens Hansen Nelson Ring at the official opening of Nelson Airport’s new terminal.
The new architecturally designed state-of-the-art airport terminal and the Nelson Ring both share a design inspired by the region.
The airport terminal, designed by Studio Pacific Architecture and built by Naylor Love in Partnership with Gibbons Construction and Fulton Hogan, has an innovative roof structure that reflects the surrounding mountains.
The Jens Hansen Nelson Ring emulates the distinctive shape of the region’s ranges and bays, including the mountain ranges referenced in the terminal roofline. The ring was the winning concept by designer Erika Hansen [no relation] in a public competition held by Jens Hansen Gold & Silversmith to create the first ever Nelson Ring.
Halfdan Hansen from Jens Hansen jewellers says it is “cool” that the Prime Minister will be “taking a piece of Nelson Tasman everywhere she goes.”
“Sharing a ring with the leader of our country that is so uniquely representative of our home region is a huge honour,” says Hansen. “Now, even when she is not visiting us, the Prime Minister can wear a memory of Nelson Tasman every day. Hopefully it will be a talking point for her when she is with other leaders around the world and she can invite them to visit here, like she did with Stephen Colbert.”
Ashley Wakelin, Jens Hansen jeweller
The Prime Minister’s Nelson Ring was made by Jens Hansen's apprentice Ashley Wakelin, under the watchful eye of master jeweller Simon Colegate.
Halfdan says the workshop has always had apprentices. “Ensuring the traditional skills of gold and silversmithing continue is very important to us – it is crucial for our trade that we have new generation jewellery makers coming through.”
Ash is Jens Hansen’s most recent apprentice, having been with the jewellers for two years after finishing at Waimea College (coincidentally Jens Hansen’s sons Halfdan and Thorkild’s former High School). Ash will graduate with a full trade certification as a manufacturing jeweller in two years.
Ash hadn’t been told who he was making this particular ring for, as it was under wraps. When he was told he was gobsmacked.
"I had no idea I was making this ring for the Prime Minister. I’m often surprised by where our jewellery goes. Working for Jens Hansen I’ve realised it’s a massive name in New Zealand, and overseas. It’s a pretty colossal business for a local Nelson studio! Plus, it’s a really cool place to work.”