When IMAGE editorial director Dominique McMullan was given her grandmother-in-law's engagement ring, she was over the moon. But sadly, as years passed, it became worn and damaged. Here's how she found the perfect way to give it new life.
On arrival at Paul Sheeran’s, I was met by Paul Burke and he immediately put my mind at ease. His knowledge of, and passion for, precious jewellery was so obvious. Within minutes of handling the ring, he was able to paint a detailed picture for me, of a dapper gentleman in Regent Street in 1930s London, picking up a special ring that would have cost him six months’ wages.
When we got down to the business of what to do with this special piece, Paul told me the ring was not, as I had guessed, repairable. However, he explained that instead of repair, his expert team could completely rebuild it, using the same materials and taking into consideration all the traditional design features.
“Our only concern was how fragile the band was because of its age. After consulting with you, we realised you were happy to have the ring remade while keeping the exact same design, giving it a new lease on life. The stones put into a modern setting wouldn’t have given them enough justice. It needed to have the same antique setting so we recreated it.