JOURNAL
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.
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RUUSK COUPLES: MADITA + ARNE
In the heart of Paris, beneath soft skies and the gentle hum of the city, Arne asked Madita to spend forever with him – a proposal filled with intention, love and quiet magic. Having met in school, their story unfolded naturally, growing through shared adventures, quiet moments, and the life they’ve built side by side. We feel incredibly honoured to have played a small part in this next chapter. Here, they share a glimpse into their journey so far, and the beautiful moment that marked the beginning of their forever. What were you each doing in life when you met - and how did the other person unexpectedly fit into that moment? We met in school and neither of us was actively looking for a partner. What are some things that you love doing together? We do a lot of sports together, read, and go on trips. Have you faced a challenge or adventure together that helped you see your relationship in a new light? We moved to a new city together right after school to study, which brought us very close. Was there a conversation or quiet knowing between you that led to the proposal - or was it a total surprise? We’ve been together for 8 1/2 years, so we’ve talked about our future many times. But I didn’t expect it on that day because it was my birthday. So it was the perfect birthday surprise. If you picture yourselves years from now, what kind of life are you most proud to be building together? We want to travel a lot more together, start a family, and grow together. Madita now wears our Mini Luna Ring, a gentle reminder of their golden moment in the city of love.
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WEARING THE STARS: THE SYMBOLISM OF CELESTIAL JEWELLERY
For centuries, stars have guided, inspired, and connected us to something greater than ourselves. From ancient seafarers navigating by starlight to quiet dreamers making wishes on the first star they see, these brilliant celestial bodies have long been symbols of hope, direction, and endless possibility. It’s no wonder that star-inspired jewellery continues to hold such timeless and universal appeal. Timeless Meaning, Written in the Stars There’s something deeply reassuring about the presence of stars in the night sky. Constant and unwavering, they have long symbolised hope, perseverance, and the promise of new beginnings. In jewellery, stars often serve as gentle reminders to trust our inner compass, even when the path ahead feels uncertain. Whether it’s a delicate pendant, a statement ring, or sparkling starry studs, these pieces remind us to keep moving toward our dreams – to reach, to wonder, and to believe in the magic of what lies ahead. Explore our pieces featuring star motifs ⟶ Constellations: A Personal Connection to the Cosmos Stars become even more meaningful when seen through the lens of astrology. Zodiac constellations offer a powerful way to honour our individuality and connect to the universe in an intimate, personal way. Whether you’re a fiery Aries, a grounded Taurus, or a dreamy Pisces, your constellation tells a story, one written in the stars. Wearing a constellation necklace or ring becomes more than just an aesthetic choice. It’s a way of carrying your cosmic identity with you – a personal symbol of your essence, strengths, and the energy you bring into the world. Explore our pieces featuring your constellation ⟶ The North Star: A Guiding Light Through Life Among the stars, the North Star (or “True North”) has long been a symbol of guidance and purpose. In ancient times, travellers relied on its steady glow to find their way home. Today, it remains a powerful emblem of staying true to yourself and the path you’re meant to follow. Jewellery inspired by the North Star often carries this sentiment at heart: to stay grounded in what matters, and to trust in the direction you’re headed. These pieces serve as anchors – small but mighty reminders that even when life feels uncertain, your True North remains steadfast within. Explore our True North Collection ⟶ The Symbolism of Stars in Jewellery Throughout cultures and centuries, stars have remained powerful motifs in adornment. In jewellery, their presence speaks not only to beauty, but to meaning, representing light, direction, inspiration, and strength. A star-set ring may symbolise personal growth, a pendant may honour a journey taken or still to come, and constellation motifs can reflect identity and cosmic connection. These celestial touches invite us to pause, reflect, and carry with us the quiet, guiding energy of the universe, always reminding us to follow our light and trust in the path unfolding ahead. Explore our Celestial Collection
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RUBY: THE GEM OF PASSION, POWER & PROTECTION
Rich in colour and steeped in legend, Ruby has long captured hearts and been revered for centuries across cultures. With its deep crimson glow like a flame held close, Ruby has come to symbolise passion, protection, and enduring love. The History of Rubies In ancient India, Rubies were known as ratnaraj, meaning "king of precious stones," and were believed to offer protection and prosperity to those who wore them. Burmese warriors once embedded Rubies in their skin before battle, believing the stones would make them invincible. In medieval Europe, Rubies were cherished not only for their beauty but also for their supposed ability to promote good health, wisdom, and courage. Famous Ruby Pieces Through Time Throughout history, rubies have taken centre stage in some of the world’s most celebrated jewellery collections: – Elizabeth Taylor's Pigeon Blood Ruby NecklaceDesigned by Cartier, this extraordinary necklace features one of the most vivid and valuable rubies ever seen — a gift from Richard Burton, and a lasting symbol of romance and opulence. – The Burmese Ruby TiaraPart of Queen Elizabeth II’s personal collection, this regal tiara is adorned with 96 rubies set among diamonds — a gift from the people of Burma to protect the wearer from evil. – The Queen's Ruby BroochAnother cherished piece from the British Royal Collection, this brooch is known for its striking elegance and historic significance. – The Nawanagar Ruby Necklace (Jodhpur Ruby Necklace)An extraordinary example of Indian high jewellery, this masterpiece reflects the grandeur and refinement of royal Indian heritage, with each ruby carefully selected for its intensity and harmony. The Meaning of Rubies Beyond their rich history, Rubies continue to hold deep personal meaning. They are traditionally associated with the heart, symbolising love, passion, and emotional strength. As the birthstone for July, Rubies also mark personal milestones – from birthdays and anniversaries to powerful new beginnings. Whether chosen for their vibrant colour, their storied past, or the personal meaning they hold, Rubies remain one of the most beloved and enduring gemstones in the world. Personalise Your Own Ruby Piece Craft your very own unique modern heirloom, personalised with Rubies or another coloured stone of choice. Explore our collection online or contact us to discuss your dream vision.
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IN CONVERSATION WITH CATE FROM SOLTYSLABEL
This 7th June, we're gathering for our very first With Great Love event—an intimate afternoon of natural silk dyeing held in North Bondi. We're honoured to be hosting this special experience alongside Cate of SoltysLabel, a natural dyer and botanical alchemist whose work is rooted in ritual, artistry, and deep care. Her process is slow and sacred, a true celebration of hand-making as a form of connection. Ahead of the gathering, we sat down with Cate to learn more about her creative journey, her relationship with eco-dyeing, and what it means to create—with great love. You’ve described dressing as one of the deepest rituals you’ve come to know. Can you share what this means to you and how it’s influenced the way you design and make each piece? Dressing as ritual brings me closer to myself. It's a devoted practice of self-care and an invitation to play with form and expression in a way that doesn’t take itself too seriously. There’s an intangible energetic signature that’s created when cloth adorns the body—I’ve felt this throughout my life, and I keep returning to cloth as a form of connection. It’s in how I show up to the process, how I handle the material when I make. I rarely use patterns and often work directly off the body. Every time I enter the studio, I re-enter a relationship—with my creativity, my spirit—and this is always reflected in the work in one way or another. Your dyeing process is deeply rooted in Ayurvedic principles and the language of plants. What drew you to this path? As a natural dyer, I see the plant world as an endless treasure trove of colour. Even different leaves from the same species can dye uniquely—and I’m never fully in control. I love working with the wild in this way. Considering our connection with cloth as ritual, it felt only natural to explore how it also impacts our health. It’s so important to wrap our skin in organic materials. When we work with plant dyes, we can take advantage of the long-term, subtle medicine they offer through skin contact. If used in a medicinal way, cloth can be re-dyed and re-infused after a few washes, continuing the relationship between body, plant, and fibre. Cate wears RUUSK Fiume Rings, Organic Bangle and Hand-Carved Cuff. Each piece you create is made by hand using offcuts, natural fibres, and a deeply intentional process. What does creating sustainably and slowly mean to you? Creating sustainably feels like a fundamental duty—as a maker and as a human. When we shift our approach to making, embedding low-waste methods and conscious intention into the design, the pieces become more than garments. They hold value beyond fashion. For me, living in peace with myself means living in peace with the earth. That’s the foundation of all my creative work. At RUUSK, we often speak about modern heirlooms—pieces made with care to hold meaning and memory. How do you see this shared intention reflected in our With Great Love workshop? I’m so excited about this workshop—it feels like a beautiful collaboration rooted in shared values. Botanical printing can be a creative journey inward. When we lead with intention, the pieces we create become reflections of our inner dialogue, and our connection with the natural world. Each finished piece is a snapshot in time—a tangible memory of the feelings and connections we shared with nature in that moment. What do you hope participants walked away with? I hope participants left with a renewed sense of themselves as creative beings. That something turned inward, allowing them to see themselves—and their relationship with the world—in a new light. The feelings we access during a workshop can mirror back profound truths about who we are. And finally, what does it mean to you to create with great love? To create with great love is to live in reverence—to self, to others, and to the earth. It’s about staying rooted, even through hardship, and letting ourselves feel and celebrate the joy of true expression. We hope you can join us at our upcoming With Great Love event and immerse yourself in an intimate afternoon of natural silk dyeing, held in a soundscape of crystal bowls, chimes and intuitive tones played by Tania of RUUSK and Sound of Sage. When: Saturday June 7th, 2:30pm - 4.30pm (2 hour workshop)Location: Body By Berner, North BondiCost: $169 or bring a friend (2 tickets) for $300 What's Included: A guided botanical dyeing workshop and your very own eco-dyed silk scarf to take home. Learn more & book now. Cate wears RUUSK With Great Love Necklace.
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A GUIDE TO GREEN GEMSTONES
Finding your perfect shade of meaning. There’s something undeniably magnetic about green. It speaks of life, growth, balance, and deep connection to the natural world. Whether soft and muted or bold and vibrant, green stones carry a quiet power—evoking feelings of renewal, love, and grounded beauty. At RUUSK, many of our clients are drawn to green gemstones when designing their meaningful pieces. From timeless emeralds to earthy sapphires and vibrant garnets, there’s a whole world of green to explore—each stone with its own story, tone, and unique qualities. Here’s a closer look at some of our most loved green gemstones. Emerald A classic symbol of love, wisdom, and rebirth. Perhaps the most iconic green gemstone, emeralds have been treasured for millennia. Their lush, velvety colour ranges from soft moss to deep forest green. Rich in history and symbolic meaning, emeralds are known as the stone of successful love, offering insight, harmony, and emotional depth. Considerations: Emeralds are more delicate than other green gemstones and require mindful wear and care. We recommend protective settings and extra consideration for those wanting to wear their ring daily. Best for: Lovers of history, symbolism, and romantic heirlooms. Read more about the meaning and history of emeralds → Green Sapphire Durable, unique, and effortlessly timeless. Green sapphires are a wonderful alternative to emeralds for those seeking greater durability. Ranging from soft sage to deep olive and forest tones, each stone is beautifully one-of-a-kind. Australian and Montana sapphires in particular offer earthy, muted greens that feel raw and grounded—perfect for those drawn to natural beauty. Considerations: Sapphires are incredibly durable and suitable for everyday wear, making them an ideal choice for engagement and commitment rings. Best for: Earthy souls and those seeking strength, longevity, and understated beauty. Green Tourmaline Radiant, calming, and full of light. With colours ranging from leafy green to deep teal, green tourmaline is a luminous and enchanting choice. Often found with lovely clarity and gentle sparkle, this stone is associated with healing, compassion, and self-discovery. Considerations: While slightly softer than sapphires, green tourmalines are still suitable for occasional wear or everyday wear with care, especially in protective settings. Best for: The gentle-hearted, seekers, and lovers of soft radiance. Tsavorite Garnet Vibrant, rare, and full of life. A lesser-known but truly captivating option, tsavorite garnet glows with brilliant, vibrant green tones—often resembling the colour of new spring leaves. As one of the most durable garnets, it offers both beauty and strength. Considerations: With high brilliance and good durability, tsavorite can be a great choice for those wanting a vibrant pop of green with resilience. Best for: Lovers of bright, bold colour and rare treasures. Which Green is Right for You? Choosing a gemstone is deeply personal. It’s not just about colour—it’s about meaning, lifestyle, and the feeling it evokes when you wear it. Whether you’re honouring a new chapter, celebrating a love story, or creating an heirloom to pass down, your stone should reflect you. If you’re unsure which green stone is right for your piece, we’re here to help. We’ll guide you through each option, offering insights into colour, durability, symbolism, and setting styles to ensure your choice is both beautiful and lasting. Dreaming of a green stone for your special piece? Contact us for personalised guidance or personalise your piece online. Crafted with intention. Chosen with care. Worn with meaning.
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THE ENCHANTMENT OF EMERALDS
A stone of wisdom, renewal, and love eternal. Rich with history and glowing with mystery, the emerald has captivated hearts and imaginations for thousands of years. With its deep green hue—reminiscent of ancient forests, fertile lands, and spring’s first bloom—this precious gemstone has long been considered a symbol of rebirth, intuition, and enduring love. At RUUSK, where every stone is chosen with care and intention, the emerald holds a special place. It’s a gem for old souls, deep feelers, and those who walk the path of love with open hearts and steady steps. A History Woven Through Civilisations The allure of emeralds dates back as far as 3000 BCE, when they were treasured by the Ancient Egyptians. Cleopatra, known for her love of rare and beautiful things, famously adored emeralds—often adorning herself and her palace with these verdant stones. They were believed to grant eternal youth and protection, and were considered a powerful talisman of fertility and rebirth. In Ancient Rome, emeralds were linked to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. Roman scholars believed the stone had the ability to soothe tired eyes and reveal truth—both literally and metaphorically. Across South America, particularly within the Incan and Muzo cultures of modern-day Colombia, emeralds were considered sacred. These cultures believed emeralds held the essence of the gods, and their reverence for the stone can still be felt in the deep respect with which Colombian emeralds are sourced today. In mediaeval Europe, emeralds were worn by royalty and mystics alike. They were said to sharpen the mind, protect against spells, and strengthen insight—especially in matters of the heart. Symbolism and Meaning Throughout time and across cultures, the emerald has carried profound symbolic weight. Often referred to as the “stone of successful love,” emeralds are associated with: Loyalty and devotion – A gem that honours long-lasting commitment and emotional depth. Growth and renewal – Like spring returning to the earth, emeralds symbolise fresh beginnings and the cycles of nature. Wisdom and truth – Said to bring clarity to the mind and heart, and to help one speak and live with integrity. Harmony and balance – A stone that nurtures the heart chakra, inviting peace, connection, and compassion. Stone Properties and Considerations Emeralds belong to the beryl family (alongside aquamarine and morganite) and are celebrated for their vivid green hues—ranging from soft moss to rich, velvety forest. Their beauty lies not just in their colour, but in their uniqueness; many emeralds contain natural inclusions known as jardin (French for “garden”), which add to their character and charm. However, it’s important to note that emeralds are a softer, more delicate gemstone than diamonds or sapphires. While deeply cherished for their beauty, they require mindful care and are not always suited to engagement or wedding rings that are worn daily and exposed to frequent knocks. If you adore the richness of green and are looking for a stone that offers greater durability, we invite you to consider alternative gemstones such as: Australian or Montana Green Sapphires – Durable, earthy, and incredibly unique in their colour spectrum. Green Tourmaline – Known for its deep green tones, often with a soft glow and lovely clarity. Tsavorite Garnet – A vibrant and rare green gemstone with excellent brilliance and strength. Each of these stones holds its own magic, and the best choice often depends on your lifestyle, setting style, and the story you wish to tell through your ring. A Stone of the Heart There’s a quiet power to the emerald. It doesn’t shout for attention, but rather, invites you to lean in. It’s a gem for those who value meaning over convention—who understand that love, in all its wild and tender forms, is the most precious thing of all. Whether chosen to mark a milestone, woven into a custom heirloom, or gifted as a gesture of love—emeralds carry stories. Ancient and new. Yours and theirs. Woven together. Considering a green stone for your heirloom piece? If you're dreaming of a green stone for your special piece, we’d love to offer personalised support to help you find the most meaningful—and suitable—option. Whether you’re drawn to the romance of an emerald or the strength of a green sapphire, we’re honoured to help bring your vision to life. Crafted with intention. Worn with love.
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THE ART OF LAYERING
Layering jewellery is a beautiful way to express your style, tell your story, and bring a personal touch to your everyday look. Whether you're adorning your neckline or wrist, the key to layering is playing with contrast — in length, texture, and shape — to create a look that feels thoughtful and uniquely you. LAYERING NECKLACES Start with varying chain lengths to create visual depth and interest. Our signature chain styles — including Curb, Figaro, Fine, and Medium — are designed to complement one another beautifully. Layering these different styles creates a textured look that moves with you. Incorporate meaningful pendants or charms to tell your story, mark a milestone, or simply hold something close to your heart. Layered necklaces are not only beautiful but deeply personal — a quiet collection of what matters most. SHOP NECKLACES LAYERING BRACELETS On the wrist, combine different silhouettes to create interest. Pair soft chain bracelets with sculptural cuffs or solid gold bangles for a textured, dynamic look. Mixing widths and finishes gives each piece space to shine while creating harmony in contrast. Whether it's a stack that evolves over time or a curated moment for the day, your bracelet layers can be as bold or subtle as you like — always a reflection of your journey. Jewellery is an art form — layering lets you become the artist. SHOP BRACELETS & BANGLES
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MOTHER'S DAY 2025: CELEBRATING MOTHERHOOD IN ALL ITS BEAUTIFUL FORMS
This Mother's Day, we wanted to celebrate the beauty, tenderness, and complexity of motherhood in a way that felt real, heartfelt, and true to the spirit of RUUSK. We recently gathered a group of our beautiful RUUSK mamas and their families for a special photoshoot and interview—a morning filled with laughter, playful chaos, tender tears, and quiet moments of connection. The day unfolded exactly as we had hoped: naturally, imperfectly, and full of heart. Children running underfoot, arms wrapped tightly around mothers, and small voices filling the air with giggles. It was a vivid reflection of the many layers of motherhood — the joy, the exhaustion, the pride, the fierce love. As one mama so beautifully put it, "Motherhood is discovering that you didn’t think you could love like you do… like your heart just wants to explode. Just love, just loving unbelievably." Through every candid moment, we were reminded that motherhood is vast and multi-faceted. It's the quiet sacrifices made daily, the deep and unspoken bonds, and the endless acts of love that often go unseen. It's a journey that transforms and shapes not just families, but the very fabric of who we are. "Motherhood is feeling insurmountable challenge but also feeling the depths of love all at the same time." We also took time to reflect on the incredible women who raised us — the ones who showed us how to love, how to be brave, and how to meet the world with open hearts. When asked what first comes to mind when thinking of their mums, our RUUSK mamas shared: "Her smile, she is just pure joy in this world.""She’s curious.""She’s brave.""She’s playful.""She’s unconditionally loving.""She’s my best friend.""She’s a superhero." What surprised many about motherhood is just how deeply the connection can be felt, not only emotionally, but physically. As one of our mamas reflected, "The bond between a mother and child is not just from the heart, it is also a physical bond. You can feel that; you can feel their pain, and you can feel their joy." It was an absolute honour to witness and capture the incredible women who entrust us with their most precious heirlooms. Watching their stories unfold in real time was a profound reminder of why we do what we do — creating pieces that carry love, legacy, and meaning across generations. This Mother's Day, we invite you to celebrate motherhood in all its forms — whether you're honouring your own mother, a mother figure, your journey into motherhood, or the women who have nurtured you in ways both big and small. From all of us at RUUSK, thank you for allowing us to be part of your stories. We celebrate you, we honour you, and we are endlessly inspired by you.
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THE BEAUTY OF AUSTRALIAN SAPPHIRES
Australia has been a proud producer of Sapphires for over a century, and today, Australian Sapphires continue to be celebrated for their deep, rich hues and remarkable durability. A meaningful choice for those seeking a locally sourced gem, these beautiful stones are imbued with the magic of our land and the stories of those who wear them. Often sought after for their vibrancy and individuality, Australian Sapphires are commonly known for their mesmerising tones — from vibrant teals and greens to brilliant blues, warm yellows, and unique parti colourations (which combine multiple colours in a single stone). Since Australian Sapphires tend to contain higher iron content, the variety of colours come in darker, and more distinct hues, making each stone entirely unique and full of character. Choosing an Australian Sapphire is a beautiful way to connect your piece to home — to celebrate the depth of local craftsmanship and the beauty of what lies beneath our soil. DID YOU KNOW? Many of our RUUSK pieces can be personalised with your choice of stone, including Australian Sapphires. Whether you're designing a personalised engagement ring, a meaningful milestone piece, or a future heirloom to tell your story, we're here to help you incorporate a coloured gemstone that speaks to you. Reach out to discuss how we can bring your vision to life, with a stone that holds meaning, memory, and beauty all its own. Click here to read more about Sapphires in general and explore the world of this extraordinary gem.
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RUUSK COUPLES: JAKE + MADISSON
Their love story began with a stolen glance across a crowded airport check-in line. For Jake and Madisson, this serendipitous moment—at the end of two European summer adventures—quietly marked the beginning of something truly extraordinary. What followed was a long-haul flight filled with hopeful glances, a perfectly timed introduction (thanks to a little “How I Met Your Mother” magic), and a connection that felt destined from the start. From spontaneous micro-adventures to dancing under the stars, their love has been stitched together through thoughtful gestures, shared sunsets, and the joy of building a life side by side. Now, with a heartfelt beachside proposal behind them and wedding plans on the horizon, Jake and Madisson are stepping into a beautiful new chapter—one grounded in deep admiration, quiet moments, and the magic of finding your person when you least expect it. How did you two first meet, and what were your first impressions of each other? We had both been travelling Europe for the summer and first saw each other while checking in for our return flight to Sydney. We were trading glances in line, both fearful that we would reject each other and end up seated together on the long flight home. It took Madisson’s best friend to notice the chemistry and the world’s luckiest game of “have you met Ted?” (How I Met Your Mother reference) to get us talking. We got to spend a few hours together on our layover between flights, and by the time we landed in Sydney, we were both secretly hooked on each other. A text was sent, a date was arranged, and the rest is history. Jake’s impression: Madisson was beautiful and reserved, and she carried herself with grace. Madisson’s impression: Jake was friendly and a very calming presence, and I loved his way of storytelling. What’s a little habit or trait you love about each other that others might not notice? M: “I love your sense of adventure- whether it’s finding micro adventures in the day-to-day, or planning international escapade- you love squeezing every bit of life out of life.” J: “You’re always looking out for a way to make someones day better whether thats a conversation with a stranger to buying your friends a “just because” gift. You’re a every thoughtful person, and I love that about you.” Do you have a favourite memory from your time dating that stands out? M: “We went on a trip to New Zealand last year, it was our first international adventure together. The entire trip was a dream, but I had a moment climbing a mountain for sunset that I realised that Jake would be the person I’d get to share all of my adventures with- that was one of my favourite moments in our relationship.” J: “Very difficult decision, but if I had to pick one specific memory it would be dancing under the stars at Boomerang beach. It’s a special memory I’ll hold close to my heart forever.” We adored the beautiful photos from your special proposal. Can you share the story of your proposal? We travelled up the coast for a long weekend away to a place that’s really special for us. Jake had pre-warned me that a proposal would not be on the cards, and not to get my hopes up. After dinner on the first night, we went down to the beach for sunset and an unveiling of a ‘secret project’. Jake had made a photo book narrating our relationship story, split up into chapters across different seasons. The last page simply had written ‘shall we make this official?’ This went straight over my head initially, and Jake made me re-read the page. He took my hand and said, “I have something to ask you,” guiding me a little further down the beach. Then he dropped to one knee and asked. Time slowed for a moment—it was quiet, simple, and the easiest yes. What are you most excited about for this next chapter together? The lead up to our wedding is so exciting- we can’t wait to share our love with family and friends. We’re really looking forward to building our life together and planning more adventures. Do you have any wedding plans in mind yet, or are you just enjoying the engagement bubble for now? Plans are officially underway! We managed to get a date in Spring 2025, and have most of the essentials planned. We are well on the way to sealing the deal!
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THE HISTORY AND MEANING OF THE ENGAGEMENT RING: A TIMELESS SYMBOL OF LOVE
A symbol of love, promise, and enduring intention. Long before diamonds took centre stage in proposals, the engagement ring held a quieter kind of beauty—rooted not in brilliance, but in intention. At RUUSK, where every piece is handmade to order, we are continually inspired by the stories and symbolism that shape each ring. The tradition of the engagement ring is one such story—centuries old and ever-evolving, yet still so deeply personal. Ancient Symbols of Comittment The earliest engagement rings date back to Ancient Egypt, where circles symbolised eternity. Woven bands made of reeds, leather, or hemp were exchanged as tokens of devotion, often worn on the fourth finger of the left hand—the “vena amoris,” believed to carry a direct line to the heart. The Romans adopted and adapted the practice, gifting iron rings to mark a binding agreement. Gold rings emerged later, often engraved with portraits or symbols, and worn as a visible sign of a couple’s union. Before Diamonds: A World of Gemstone Love Long before diamonds became the go-to symbol of engagement, coloured gemstones held powerful meaning and adorned the hands of lovers and royalty alike. Sapphires, symbolising wisdom, loyalty, and nobility, were often the gemstone of choice. Their deep blues represented the heavens—eternal and divine. Read more about the beauty of Australian Sapphires → Rubies, with their rich red hue, spoke of passion and protection—believed to ignite the heart and protect the wearer. Emeralds, beloved by Cleopatra and revered in many cultures, were symbols of rebirth, love, and fertility. Each stone carried its own story. Each choice was intentional—selected not for status, but for sentiment. Even in the Middle Ages, engagement rings were often simple bands engraved with poetic inscriptions. These posy rings carried messages of devotion in French or Latin, such as “vous et nul autre” — you and no other. The Rise of the Diamond It wasn’t until 1477 that the diamond made its formal debut, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented Mary of Burgundy with a gold ring set with a thin slice of diamond arranged in the shape of an “M.” Over time, this gesture sparked a trend among European aristocracy, yet diamonds remained rare and precious. As the 1800s unfolded, the discovery of large diamond deposits made these diamonds more widely available. By the 1940s, the iconic De Beers campaign introduced the phrase “A diamond is forever,” shifting cultural expectations and firmly establishing the diamond solitaire as the engagement ring standard. While this era brought diamonds to the forefront, it also marked a departure from the diverse stones and symbolic choices that had once defined rings of commitment. Still, there’s beauty in tradition—diamonds, with their exceptional brilliance and unmatched durability, remain a meaningful and enduring choice for many. Meaningful Styles Through Time Across history, engagement rings have taken many forms—each shaped by culture, era, and emotion. Victorian Rings (1837–1901): Romantic and symbolic, often featuring hearts, serpents (a symbol of eternal love), or clusters of small gemstones including opals, turquoise, and garnet. Art Nouveau & Edwardian Eras: Fluid, floral designs and intricate filigree, often incorporating pearls or coloured stones in whimsical, nature-inspired settings. Art Deco Rings (1920s–30s): Bold, geometric, and glamorous. These rings often combined diamonds with coloured gems like onyx, sapphire, or emerald in symmetrical settings. Modern Minimalist: Clean lines, ethical materials, and unconventional shapes. Today’s modern heirlooms are often custom-made, focused on personal meaning over traditional structure. At RUUSK, we honour this tradition of meaning—creating rings not for trends, but for the stories they will hold. Some of our most beloved designs have featured Australian sapphires in hues of forest green and ocean blue, softly brushed matte gold finishes, or hand-engraved initials hidden on the inside of the band. Because love doesn’t look the same for everyone—and neither should the rings that celebrate it. A Return to Intention More and more, couples are rewriting the engagement ring narrative—choosing pieces that reflect their values, their heritage, and their unique journey. Whether it's a solid gold band with no stone at all, a sapphire chosen to reflect the ocean where you first met, or a ring handcrafted using heirloom gold—what matters most is what it means to you. An engagement ring is more than a proposal. It's a quiet promise. A daily reminder. A symbol of choosing love, over and over again. Considering Your Own Meaningful Ring? Explore our Signature Styles, contact us via email or book a Studio Appointment to begin your journey. Crafted slowly, with great love. SHOP: RUUSK ENGAGEMENT RINGS
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