The Loupe
HEART TO HEART
As we once again enter the month typically characterized by candy, hearts, flowers, and of course, the gifting of jewelry, we thought we'd take a brief look back at the origin of Valentine's Day. That's more easily said than done, as who "Saint Valentine" even was is a bit sketchy; there were several who, through the centuries, have been associated with the title, but one thing is certain, the original date is associated with the martyrdom of a its namesake.
Historians tell us that at least two Saints Valentine died during the reign of Roman Emperor Claudius Gothicus, reportedly in 269 or 270 A.D. February 14th actually represents the date upon which the Saint (or Saints?) were executed; hardly the fodder for heartfelt expressions of romantic devotion. Some have suggested that the modern celebration of Valentine's Day was an attempt by the early Church to replace the Roman celebration of Lupercalia, a pagan holiday in which semi-nude young men would run through the streets of ancient Roman clad only in the skins of newly sacrificed goats. This scenario seems unlikely to us.
People during the Medieval period apparently associated mid-February with the mating of birds. Geoffrey Chaucer wrote (in Parlement of Foules) "For this was on seynt Volantynys day. Whan euery bryd comyth there to chese his make." While we're not certain what "chese" might have meant, the notion conveyed was, naturally, that romance was associated with noble act of aviary mating rituals. William Shakespeare, a century and a half later, concurred, with his Ophelia describing herself is Hamlet's "Valentine," cementing the notion that the day and practices were, by then, firmly in place.
In the centuries to follow, men and women wrote notes of affection to one another on February 14th, and with the onset of the industrial revolution, couples saw the mass production of Valentine's Day greeting cards and confection. It's no secret, of course, that jewelry has also long been associated with displaying one's romantic devotion to one's partner. The heart-shaped earrings above are a small example of the kinds of gifts Ronel has on hand. Naturally, he's always prepared to create a unique piece to your own design specifications as well. Amethyst is February's birthstone; you'll find a couple of lovely Amethyst pieces in Ronel's current collection. Have a look at our EARRINGS page for a spectacular set.
We hope you'll find the time to spend some heartfelt hours with your mate this month, and we invite you to subscribe to our monthly online newsletter to keep up to date with Ronel's work!
As we once again enter the month typically characterized by candy, hearts, flowers, and of course, the gifting of jewelry, we thought we'd take a brief look back at the origin of Valentine's Day. That's more easily said than done, as who "Saint Valentine" even was is a bit sketchy; there were several who, through the centuries, have been associated with the title, but one thing is certain, the original date is associated with the martyrdom of a its namesake.
Historians tell us that at least two Saints Valentine died during the reign of Roman Emperor Claudius Gothicus, reportedly in 269 or 270 A.D. February 14th actually represents the date upon which the Saint (or Saints?) were executed; hardly the fodder for heartfelt expressions of romantic devotion. Some have suggested that the modern celebration of Valentine's Day was an attempt by the early Church to replace the Roman celebration of Lupercalia, a pagan holiday in which semi-nude young men would run through the streets of ancient Roman clad only in the skins of newly sacrificed goats. This scenario seems unlikely to us.
People during the Medieval period apparently associated mid-February with the mating of birds. Geoffrey Chaucer wrote (in Parlement of Foules) "For this was on seynt Volantynys day. Whan euery bryd comyth there to chese his make." While we're not certain what "chese" might have meant, the notion conveyed was, naturally, that romance was associated with noble act of aviary mating rituals. William Shakespeare, a century and a half later, concurred, with his Ophelia describing herself is Hamlet's "Valentine," cementing the notion that the day and practices were, by then, firmly in place.
In the centuries to follow, men and women wrote notes of affection to one another on February 14th, and with the onset of the industrial revolution, couples saw the mass production of Valentine's Day greeting cards and confection. It's no secret, of course, that jewelry has also long been associated with displaying one's romantic devotion to one's partner. The heart-shaped earrings above are a small example of the kinds of gifts Ronel has on hand. Naturally, he's always prepared to create a unique piece to your own design specifications as well. Amethyst is February's birthstone; you'll find a couple of lovely Amethyst pieces in Ronel's current collection. Have a look at our EARRINGS page for a spectacular set.
We hope you'll find the time to spend some heartfelt hours with your mate this month, and we invite you to subscribe to our monthly online newsletter to keep up to date with Ronel's work!
OUT WITH THE OLD – IN WITH THE OLDER
The term "bespoke" is defined as "an article made for a particular customer or user." One-of-a-kind bespoke luxury jewelry is, and has always been, Ronel's specialty. He recognizes, however, that current financial and world events have many (even the most wealthy among us) concerned about the weeks and months ahead.
While most are holding on to personal assets for good reason, those who've been blessed with enough reserve income to ensure they remain not only solvent, but capable of enjoying the finer things their efforts have made available, continue to appreciate opulence, even while desiring to remain cautious. Ronel invites such clients to consider updating older pieces, permitting him to employ the individual elements such items contain, in an entirely new setting. Like the fabulous pearl bracelet above (currently available on our site), which started out as an art nouveau-era necklace, Ronel can change original quality elements into entirely new designs–designs that express your unique tastes and personality.
Such pieces represent an exciting challenge for Ronel. He appreciates that another jeweler (or jewelry manufacturer) once created an item, or series of items, that were popular during their day, but which have, with the passing of time, become less appealing. Such pieces may have been inherited, or purchased many years after their creation. In these uncertain times, redesigned pieces like this afford their owners a fresh, new look, while foregoing the expense of having to purchase newly-mined individual stones, and perhaps, precious metals.
Naturally, Ronel will, in the coming year, continue to add new designs to his current oeuvre, and invites you to look through the selections on our site. He's also ready to create an all-new item to your personal specifications, employing elements in his collection, or using pieces from jewelry you currently own.
Visit our CONTACT page to make an APPOINTMENT, or call Ronel directly at (865) 599-5116 to get started. We hope you had a wonderful Holiday season, and join you in looking forward to a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year!
The term "bespoke" is defined as "an article made for a particular customer or user." One-of-a-kind bespoke luxury jewelry is, and has always been, Ronel's specialty. He recognizes, however, that current financial and world events have many (even the most wealthy among us) concerned about the weeks and months ahead.
While most are holding on to personal assets for good reason, those who've been blessed with enough reserve income to ensure they remain not only solvent, but capable of enjoying the finer things their efforts have made available, continue to appreciate opulence, even while desiring to remain cautious. Ronel invites such clients to consider updating older pieces, permitting him to employ the individual elements such items contain, in an entirely new setting. Like the fabulous pearl bracelet above (currently available on our site), which started out as an art nouveau-era necklace, Ronel can change original quality elements into entirely new designs–designs that express your unique tastes and personality.
Such pieces represent an exciting challenge for Ronel. He appreciates that another jeweler (or jewelry manufacturer) once created an item, or series of items, that were popular during their day, but which have, with the passing of time, become less appealing. Such pieces may have been inherited, or purchased many years after their creation. In these uncertain times, redesigned pieces like this afford their owners a fresh, new look, while foregoing the expense of having to purchase newly-mined individual stones, and perhaps, precious metals.
Naturally, Ronel will, in the coming year, continue to add new designs to his current oeuvre, and invites you to look through the selections on our site. He's also ready to create an all-new item to your personal specifications, employing elements in his collection, or using pieces from jewelry you currently own.
Visit our CONTACT page to make an APPOINTMENT, or call Ronel directly at (865) 599-5116 to get started. We hope you had a wonderful Holiday season, and join you in looking forward to a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year!
MERRY AND (VERY) BRIGHT
It's that most wonderful time of the year again, and the month that many grooms-to-be ask for the hands of their brides. Marriage is serious business, so is the choice in engagement rings. This month, we'll have a look at why and when diamonds became the favored choice in rings for the newly betrothed.
Diamonds have long been used in engagement ring settings, with Archduke Maximilian of Austria presenting one to Mary of Burgundy in 1477. In the late 18th Century, during the period of the American Revolution, England's Queen Charlotte, wife of George III of England, sported diamonds in not only her engagement ring, but in her wedding band as well. Fast forward to 1839, Prince Albert presented the young Queen Victoria with a diamond engagement band, starting a trend that would (in 1981) be challenged by his great-grandson, Prince Charles, who gave Lady Dianna Spencer a large blue sapphire (see our October entry, below, for details).
Jeweler Charles Lewis Tiffany introduced the diamond solitaire engagement setting in 1886, a style that remains incredibly popular today. It wasn't until 1947, however, with the close of WWII, that South Africa's De Beers helped establish the diamond as the preferred engagement stone. With incomes enhanced by the GI BIll, many returning American military men took the De Beer's new catchphrase, "A Diamond is Forever," to heart. The sale of diamonds immediately increased by fifty precent in a very short period; in 2023, diamonds continue to be represented in more than eight of every ten engagement rings sold.
If you browse major luxury retail jewelers (and nearly all of their lower-cost alternatives), you'll find standard duplicates of diamond engagement rings in a large variety of grades and price points. What sets Ronel apart is the fact that he personally designs and creates by hand every diamond (and other) engagement ring in his collection. No two pieces are exactly alike, and no duplicates are available.
If you're looking for a ring as unique as your love, we invite you to visit our Sevierville studio, or to examine the bespoke pieces on our BRIDAL page. Remember, you can receive a 360° video of any of Ronel's rings simply by asking. If you'd like to discuss a custom engagement piece, made to your individual specifications, feel free to reach us through our CONTACT page, or call Ronel directly at (865) 599-5116.
From our family to yours, we sincerely hope this Christmas season will bring joy and peace. May the coming year bless you with health and prosperity as well. As always, just like the celebrities (including Royals) he has served before, Ronel is dedicated to making you and your loved ones happy. A gift from Ronel will genuinely be remembered forever.
It's that most wonderful time of the year again, and the month that many grooms-to-be ask for the hands of their brides. Marriage is serious business, so is the choice in engagement rings. This month, we'll have a look at why and when diamonds became the favored choice in rings for the newly betrothed.
Diamonds have long been used in engagement ring settings, with Archduke Maximilian of Austria presenting one to Mary of Burgundy in 1477. In the late 18th Century, during the period of the American Revolution, England's Queen Charlotte, wife of George III of England, sported diamonds in not only her engagement ring, but in her wedding band as well. Fast forward to 1839, Prince Albert presented the young Queen Victoria with a diamond engagement band, starting a trend that would (in 1981) be challenged by his great-grandson, Prince Charles, who gave Lady Dianna Spencer a large blue sapphire (see our October entry, below, for details).
Jeweler Charles Lewis Tiffany introduced the diamond solitaire engagement setting in 1886, a style that remains incredibly popular today. It wasn't until 1947, however, with the close of WWII, that South Africa's De Beers helped establish the diamond as the preferred engagement stone. With incomes enhanced by the GI BIll, many returning American military men took the De Beer's new catchphrase, "A Diamond is Forever," to heart. The sale of diamonds immediately increased by fifty precent in a very short period; in 2023, diamonds continue to be represented in more than eight of every ten engagement rings sold.
If you browse major luxury retail jewelers (and nearly all of their lower-cost alternatives), you'll find standard duplicates of diamond engagement rings in a large variety of grades and price points. What sets Ronel apart is the fact that he personally designs and creates by hand every diamond (and other) engagement ring in his collection. No two pieces are exactly alike, and no duplicates are available.
If you're looking for a ring as unique as your love, we invite you to visit our Sevierville studio, or to examine the bespoke pieces on our BRIDAL page. Remember, you can receive a 360° video of any of Ronel's rings simply by asking. If you'd like to discuss a custom engagement piece, made to your individual specifications, feel free to reach us through our CONTACT page, or call Ronel directly at (865) 599-5116.
From our family to yours, we sincerely hope this Christmas season will bring joy and peace. May the coming year bless you with health and prosperity as well. As always, just like the celebrities (including Royals) he has served before, Ronel is dedicated to making you and your loved ones happy. A gift from Ronel will genuinely be remembered forever.
A TIME TO BE THANKFUL
In the United States, November is the month that officially kicks-off the "Holiday Season." At Ronel Raicsics Bespoke Jewelry Design Studio, we are particularly fond of the first holiday celebration, Thanksgiving. It's during this very special time of year that we reflect on our many blessings, and are reminded that a loving family is chief among them. Even in times of uncertainty, we who can join our families in person (rather than through the artificial realm of Social Media), are comforted to know that we're all still here, and that we can face whatever comes, together.
For many, of course, the holiday table will be missing a loved one, and in this time, we're blessed to reflect on who they were, and what they meant to us, believing that we'll see them again. If that's the case in your family, please accept our heartfelt prayers for peace and wonderful memories in this difficult time.
On a happier note, you won't be surprised to learn that most couples become engaged in the month of December. This first step of dedication to one-another is, of course, the foundation upon which future family memories will be made. As we mentioned last month, diamonds remain the most popular stone for engagement rings (a phenomena begun at the close of World War II), but other stones are becoming more fashionable, with blue Ceylon (Sri Lankan) sapphires heading the list. Have a look at some of the amazing selections available on this site; most of our rings are created in common sizes, but if an existing ring doesn't perfectly fit your (or her) finger, it can be quickly and easily adjusted to your needs.
Ronel can, naturally, create an entirely new bespoke piece to your own specifications, using either gemstones from his collection, or those in a piece you already own. Make an APPOINTMENT today, to begin the process.
From our house to yours, here's hoping for a blessed Thanksgiving, and that you, too, have reasons for which to be grateful. We certainly do, and never forget, we're grateful for you!
In the United States, November is the month that officially kicks-off the "Holiday Season." At Ronel Raicsics Bespoke Jewelry Design Studio, we are particularly fond of the first holiday celebration, Thanksgiving. It's during this very special time of year that we reflect on our many blessings, and are reminded that a loving family is chief among them. Even in times of uncertainty, we who can join our families in person (rather than through the artificial realm of Social Media), are comforted to know that we're all still here, and that we can face whatever comes, together.
For many, of course, the holiday table will be missing a loved one, and in this time, we're blessed to reflect on who they were, and what they meant to us, believing that we'll see them again. If that's the case in your family, please accept our heartfelt prayers for peace and wonderful memories in this difficult time.
On a happier note, you won't be surprised to learn that most couples become engaged in the month of December. This first step of dedication to one-another is, of course, the foundation upon which future family memories will be made. As we mentioned last month, diamonds remain the most popular stone for engagement rings (a phenomena begun at the close of World War II), but other stones are becoming more fashionable, with blue Ceylon (Sri Lankan) sapphires heading the list. Have a look at some of the amazing selections available on this site; most of our rings are created in common sizes, but if an existing ring doesn't perfectly fit your (or her) finger, it can be quickly and easily adjusted to your needs.
Ronel can, naturally, create an entirely new bespoke piece to your own specifications, using either gemstones from his collection, or those in a piece you already own. Make an APPOINTMENT today, to begin the process.
From our house to yours, here's hoping for a blessed Thanksgiving, and that you, too, have reasons for which to be grateful. We certainly do, and never forget, we're grateful for you!
IN PRAISE OF COLOR
You’ve heard the classic expressions. "Diamonds are forever". "Diamonds are a girl’s best friend." He [she, or it] is “a diamond in the rough.”
Fine diamonds are spectacular, regardless of size, and Ronel has incorporated thousands of them in his designs over the decades. It is, however, the world’s second hardest natural stone that sparks his creative imagination. Like diamonds, sapphires are the only precious gemstone that covers almost every color in the visible spectrum.
Sapphires of white (clear), pink, yellow, and shades of green can be found in Ronel’s collected work, but his favorite (and that of most jewelry lovers) is the brilliant royal blue. For much of the last century, the very best untreated sapphires were mined in Burma. In more recent years, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) has become home to the finest and most coveted sapphires available. At the moment, pure vibrant blue Ceylon (Sri Lankan) sapphires are valued at well over $2,000 a carat, and have become increasingly popular, not just in cocktail, anniversary, and gift settings, but as engagement rings.
In 1981, then-Prince Charles of England presented Lady Diana Spencer a large blue Ceylon sapphire, surrounded by a halo of 14 solitaire diamonds. As a result, the popularity of sapphires as engagement stones instantly increased. Ronel understands, too, that the history of diamond mining makes the lovely pieces of crystalline carbon less appealing to many modern couples, and with good reason. While ethically-sourced natural diamonds are much more common now (and are the only kind Ronel incorporates in his bespoke work), the deep, rich, blue of the Ceylon sapphire (often, in concert with surrounding diamonds) is more frequently preferred by brides-to-be simply because of its natural beauty. Historically, deep blue sapphires have been associated with purity, faithfulness, and protection, across many cultures.
For much of the Northern Hemisphere, the month of October represents the seasonal eruption of colors in nature, a phenomenon reflected in the variety of hues represented in sapphire stones. Rubies, like sapphires, are of the corundum family. Shades of red (like the ruby) and green (like the emerald—a member of the beryl family) can, as noted, be found in sapphires as well. Ronel invites you to explore them with him.
Diamonds didn’t become popular in engagement ring settings until the middle of the 20th Century, but their reign as king (or queen?) of the betrothal ring isn’t likely to change in the immediate future. That noted, sapphire engagement rings stand out, whether incorporated with diamonds, or alone. Ronel Raicsics specializes in creating engagement rings (and other pieces of bespoke jewelry) as unique as the person who wears them, offering one-of-a-kind designs for one-of-a-kind people.
If you’ve been blessed to meet your forever partner, or are seeking a very special gift for another, schedule your APPOINTMENT with Ronel today to get started on your (his, or her) memorable piece of heirloom jewelry.
You’ve heard the classic expressions. "Diamonds are forever". "Diamonds are a girl’s best friend." He [she, or it] is “a diamond in the rough.”
Fine diamonds are spectacular, regardless of size, and Ronel has incorporated thousands of them in his designs over the decades. It is, however, the world’s second hardest natural stone that sparks his creative imagination. Like diamonds, sapphires are the only precious gemstone that covers almost every color in the visible spectrum.
Sapphires of white (clear), pink, yellow, and shades of green can be found in Ronel’s collected work, but his favorite (and that of most jewelry lovers) is the brilliant royal blue. For much of the last century, the very best untreated sapphires were mined in Burma. In more recent years, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) has become home to the finest and most coveted sapphires available. At the moment, pure vibrant blue Ceylon (Sri Lankan) sapphires are valued at well over $2,000 a carat, and have become increasingly popular, not just in cocktail, anniversary, and gift settings, but as engagement rings.
In 1981, then-Prince Charles of England presented Lady Diana Spencer a large blue Ceylon sapphire, surrounded by a halo of 14 solitaire diamonds. As a result, the popularity of sapphires as engagement stones instantly increased. Ronel understands, too, that the history of diamond mining makes the lovely pieces of crystalline carbon less appealing to many modern couples, and with good reason. While ethically-sourced natural diamonds are much more common now (and are the only kind Ronel incorporates in his bespoke work), the deep, rich, blue of the Ceylon sapphire (often, in concert with surrounding diamonds) is more frequently preferred by brides-to-be simply because of its natural beauty. Historically, deep blue sapphires have been associated with purity, faithfulness, and protection, across many cultures.
For much of the Northern Hemisphere, the month of October represents the seasonal eruption of colors in nature, a phenomenon reflected in the variety of hues represented in sapphire stones. Rubies, like sapphires, are of the corundum family. Shades of red (like the ruby) and green (like the emerald—a member of the beryl family) can, as noted, be found in sapphires as well. Ronel invites you to explore them with him.
Diamonds didn’t become popular in engagement ring settings until the middle of the 20th Century, but their reign as king (or queen?) of the betrothal ring isn’t likely to change in the immediate future. That noted, sapphire engagement rings stand out, whether incorporated with diamonds, or alone. Ronel Raicsics specializes in creating engagement rings (and other pieces of bespoke jewelry) as unique as the person who wears them, offering one-of-a-kind designs for one-of-a-kind people.
If you’ve been blessed to meet your forever partner, or are seeking a very special gift for another, schedule your APPOINTMENT with Ronel today to get started on your (his, or her) memorable piece of heirloom jewelry.
MEET THE MAKER
Welcome to the inaugural edition of The Loupe, Ronel Raicsics Studio's monthly online resource offering information and updates on the fine art of bespoke jewelry design, precious gemstones, and related news.
This month, we invite you to meet Ronel through his ABOUT page, found on this site. There, you'll learn of his background, and of some of the celebrity clients he's had the pleasure to serve.
In 2020, Ronel and his family relocated to Sevierville, Tennessee, hometown of Dolly Parton (in fact, Ronel's studio is now located just around the corner from Dolly's iconic life-sized bronze statue, next to Sevierville's City Hall). The Raicsics family now shares the property surrounding its new home (after nearly three years of COVID-related construction delays) with dogs, horses, and a donkey.
This site represents not just an avenue for purveying Ronel's elegant jewelry designs, but as a means of affirming his identity as a recognized creator of exclusive jewelry art among a broader, though elite, clientele. While he will continue to fashion occasional items for long-established retail partners, Ronel is now focused on offering extraordinary pieces of opulent, one-of-a-kind, jewelry directly to one-of-a-kind people; like you.
Whether you seek to celebrate an occasion, to establish a new beginning of your own, or simply because you are among the few who recognize and appreciate genuinely exceptional jewelry, Ronel looks forward to a lasting relationship, designing new heirloom pieces just for you.
Welcome to the inaugural edition of The Loupe, Ronel Raicsics Studio's monthly online resource offering information and updates on the fine art of bespoke jewelry design, precious gemstones, and related news.
This month, we invite you to meet Ronel through his ABOUT page, found on this site. There, you'll learn of his background, and of some of the celebrity clients he's had the pleasure to serve.
In 2020, Ronel and his family relocated to Sevierville, Tennessee, hometown of Dolly Parton (in fact, Ronel's studio is now located just around the corner from Dolly's iconic life-sized bronze statue, next to Sevierville's City Hall). The Raicsics family now shares the property surrounding its new home (after nearly three years of COVID-related construction delays) with dogs, horses, and a donkey.
This site represents not just an avenue for purveying Ronel's elegant jewelry designs, but as a means of affirming his identity as a recognized creator of exclusive jewelry art among a broader, though elite, clientele. While he will continue to fashion occasional items for long-established retail partners, Ronel is now focused on offering extraordinary pieces of opulent, one-of-a-kind, jewelry directly to one-of-a-kind people; like you.
Whether you seek to celebrate an occasion, to establish a new beginning of your own, or simply because you are among the few who recognize and appreciate genuinely exceptional jewelry, Ronel looks forward to a lasting relationship, designing new heirloom pieces just for you.