Golden days with Izi Simundic.
Photography by Melinda Cartmer | @melcartmer_photographer
H&M by Max May | @maxmade
Cosmos Pendant Necklace, Small Organic Earrings
Small Signet Ring with Star-Set Diamond, Supernova Diamond Ring, Moon & Stars Ring
Izi x RUUSK
Related Posts
KATIE’S MODERN HEIRLOOMS: LOVE LETTERS TO HER DAUGHTER
Over the years, Katie has added to her collection of RUUSK pieces with intention – each one a meaningful chapter in her story. Featuring thoughtful engravings and her favourite stone, Ceylon Sapphire, every piece carries a message of love and a deep connection to her journey through motherhood. Lovingly crafted to be cherished by Katie now, and one day passed down to her daughter with all the love it holds. "I wanted to create a series of love letters to one day pass onto my daughter. Each of my RUUSK pieces have engravings with messages of love, strength, and perseverance. My hope is that these love letters will be a reminder of how much she is loved, our beautiful life together and to have the courage to rise up when faced with adversity. " "Every day that I am with my daughter, feeling her love and watching her grow, is a gift. Although it is one of the most challenging roles in life, motherhood has given me the drive to live more passionately and to strive to be a better person every single day. I always say my life began when my daughter was born and I love this life with her." Explore Katies': Sapphire Bezel-set Wide Organic Ring, Emerald-cut Fine Solitaire, Luna Ring, Princess Valle Ring and Thin New Moon Ring Contact us to craft your own special modern heirloom.
Learn more
RUUSK COUPLE: LUCY + PADDY
From a golden-hour surf at Bells Beach to dreamy tinnie trips, long-distance adventures, and a surprise proposal on the water – Lucy and Paddy’s love story feels like something out of a sun-drenched film reel. With a shared love of the sea, slow moments, and spontaneous plans, their relationship has grown from laughter and lightness into something deeply grounded. They shared with us a glimpse into their story – the moments that shaped their connection, the beautiful balance they bring to each other’s lives, and the sweet (and clever) proposal that brought them full circle. What was one of the first things you noticed about each other that made you think, “I want to get to know this person better”? LUCY We first met at Bells Beach on a dreamy Sunday afternoon – the surf was glassy, the air was warm, and that golden hour light was just magic. I was catching up with a mutual friend, Tao, in the carpark when Paddy rocked up as we were getting suited up. Funny thing is, Tao had actually mentioned Paddy before, saying we should meet because of our shared love for boating and similar interests. So it felt serendipitous when he appeared. It turned into one of those fun, light-hearted surfs – wave after wave, so many laughs, and Paddy doing headstands on his board just for the fun of it (I was very impressed). Afterwards, we cracked a beer and watched the sunset turn the sky pink and lilac. That’s when he asked me if I wanted to go out on his tinnie that week. That was the moment. This goofy, insightful, adventurous soul had me completely intrigued. And as for that first date on the tinnie? A full moon, a few beers, another fiery sunset... it was beautiful. PADDY On our first date we went out on my little tinny. Where we live in Torquay you have to launch it off the beach which can be a bit tricky sometimes. I’m used to holding people’s hand through the process because not many people have done it before and have no idea what’s going on which can be dangerous. But this time was different, as soon as the trailer hit the water Goose was on to it. She pulled the boat off the trailer, turned the bow in to the waves, and waded out to hold the boat in deeper water to wait for me to drop off the car. I just stood there silently thinking ‘wow…this is rare.’ In what ways do you feel like your partner compliments you, or brings out qualities in you that you didn’t expect? LUCY Paddy has this beautiful balance of being deeply compassionate and wonderfully quirky. He brings such a caring, thoughtful perspective to everything – and somehow blends that effortlessly with his playful, witty side. He makes every adventure brighter and taps into that childlike part of life that’s so easy to forget. He constantly surprises me – whether it’s making me laugh out loud with a perfectly timed comment, bringing home a record or sending a song that captures a feeling or moment so precisely. There’s a little magic in the way he adds thoughtfulness and spontaneity to every day. And where he brings heart and humour, I bring the wild plans – I love surprising him, dreaming up our next adventure, and making it all happen seamlessly. We complement each other by showing up, lifting each other up, and making space for playfulness, every single day. PADDY Goose is extremely proactive and organised and I very much exist in the moment and like to enjoy the opportunities that present themselves. I think we both help each other in this way. I help Lucy slow down and she helps me to speed up. When it comes to adventures I’m very practical and love to dive deep on the tools and equipment we need to have the best time – but Goose thinks about all those elements that brings that experience to another level. For example I’ll make sure we have all the gear we need to get there and stay warm, and Lucy will make sure we have a cheese board ready and at the most opportune time to soak in the view or sunset. What’s one experience you've had together that has really shaped your relationship and made you both grow as a couple? LUCY Early in our relationship, Paddy was relocated to Queenstown, New Zealand for a year – so we found ourselves navigating long distance right in the middle of the honeymoon phase. Whilst we missed each other, it was one of the best things that could have happened. Our communication was incredible, and every visit felt like a concentrated burst of connection, adventure, and quality time. I’d fly over for 2–3 week stints, and we’d make the most of every moment – snowboarding, hiking, exploring new places. We would make up for all of our missed dates while apart and snow tour at sunrise on the peaks above Queenstown, have wine and cheeseboards on the banks of crystal clear lakes, hike to natural hot springs along azure rivers, all surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Those experiences solidified our relationship. They taught us how to communicate, how to stay connected from afar, and gave us a foundation of shared memories that we’ll always hold close. PADDY Early in our relationship I got asked to move to New Zealand for work. We’d only been seeing each other for 5 months at the time but we had to make the decision of whether to commit to a year of long-distance. Thankfully we did because it was one of the best things we did as a couple. There was no insecurity, no ‘why didn’t you text me today’, no jealousy. We both understood that each of us had our own things going on and had complete trust in each other. When it comes to relationships I often think ‘if it’s easy, it’s right’ – and although it was hard to be apart, the communication and trust always felt easy and that’s the most important thing. Lucy, can you describe the moment when you decided that you wanted to propose to Paddy? We had just bought a new tinnie and ambitiously thought we’d refit the whole engine and electrical setup in a weekend – classic us. It ended up taking a month of solid work, with Paddy doing most of the intricate installs, teaching himself as he went. I was genuinely blown away by his tenacity, patience, and the care he poured into turning that boat into something magical – a vessel for adventures, camping trips, and memories yet to come. One afternoon, as we were tinkering with the motor and laughing at how many trips to Road Tech Marine we had endured (after forgetting something, again) and just enjoying the process, I had this quiet moment of clarity. Among the tools, tangled wires, and shared purpose, I just knew: once this boat was ready, I wanted to propose to him in it. On the water. Somewhere remote. Doing what we love most. The idea formed: I’d hide the ring on a fishing lure. (Don’t worry – it was tied with clear line and to my wrist… just in case it went overboard!) Fast forward to a dreamy weekend at Gypsy Point – warm and not a breath of wind. We’d been catching flathead after flathead when I asked Paddy to help me with a “snagged lure.” He came over, saw the ring, and I asked, “Do you want to keep fishing together forever?” It was perfect. A moment – and a story – we’ll be telling for a long time. Even more special, it brought us full circle – back to where it all began, our first date on the water. Now that you’re engaged, what part of your future together excites you the most? Is there something you’re particularly looking forward to? LUCY Dancing through this life of adventure with my perfect partner – that’s what excites me most. The future feels so full: of surf sessions, fishing trips, discovering hidden camping spots under starry skies, and cozy nights in at our new place, spinning records. Paddy’s always up for taking the more adventurous route – and I love that about him, because I’m the same. The week I proposed was a double up of life events – we also bought a house! We’re currently renovating it, and we can’t wait to move in and create a space that reflects us, where we can keep growing together. That’s our next big chapter – along with our wedding next year, which we’re dreaming up as one big, love-filled party. PADDY We recently bought our first home, so I’m looking forward to just us living together and creating out own little nest…but with that said I’m just excited for a life-time of fun! We both love getting out there, getting after it, and having a whole lot of fun. The ideas never stop and I just know that a life with Goose will be a really, really good time. Paddy's Men's Oval Signet Ring personalised with Flush-Set Navy Sapphire.
Learn more
SYMBOLISM OF THE TRILOGY ENGAGEMENT RING
Elegant and deeply symbolic, the Trilogy Engagement Ring carries a timeless message of love and devotion. More than just a beautiful setting, its three stones are rich with meaning, honouring the journey two people take together. A Love Story in Three Parts Traditionally, the three stones are said to represent a couple’s past, present, and future, each one holding a chapter of their shared story. The first stone reflects where you've come from, the foundation of your connection. The centre stone, often the largest, celebrates the present moment and the love and commitment you hold right now. And the third stone symbolises your future together: the hopes, dreams, and life you’re building side by side. This arrangement is more than just an aesthetically balanced design; it is emotionally resonant. It brings together memory, presence, and possibility all in one enduring piece. A Deeper, Personal Meaning Trilogy Rings carry a rich personal meaning beyond their beauty. For some, the three stones represent the mind, body, and spirit. A holistic expression of self and unity. Today, many couples are drawn to Trilogy Rings that speak to their unique story, choosing stones that reflect their personal style, family, or loved ones. In this way, the Trilogy Ring becomes not only a celebration of partnership, but also of identity, connection, and harmony. A Design Rooted in Elegance, made truly yours Most Trilogy Rings feature a larger central stone flanked by two smaller stones, emphasising the significance of the present while honouring the path that led you here and all that is to come. The stones may be all the same or each uniquely chosen. Here at RUUSK, our base design is crafted with timeless Natural Diamonds, with the opportunity to personalise with meaningful birthstones or coloured gemstones that hold personal significance. This is where the beauty of a Trilogy Ring truly shines: its meaning is deeply personal, and its design can be entirely your own. 1.25ct Trilogy Ring in Rose Gold, personalised with Natural Diamond centre stone and Navy Sapphire shoulder stones. Whether chosen for its symbolism, its balance of elegance and sentiment, or simply because it speaks to you, a Trilogy Engagement Ring is a powerful reminder that love is not just a moment, but a journey. Three stones. One story. Yours.
Learn more