JOURNAL
RUUSK IN RESIDENCE: SHOWCASE APPOINTMENTS
We are thrilled to share the highlights from our recent RUUSK In Residence Showcase Appointments. It was a pleasure meeting members of our beautiful RUUSK community in person, and even more of a joy to hear your visions and be able to help discuss options to craft your dream pieces. Held at the charming Maido Cafe with our designer and founder Tania, our inaugural showcase was set in an inspiring environment that perfectly complemented our mission of personalised craftsmanship. Read on to explore the special moments from this weekend, featuring some beautiful insights from Tania herself. "It's always just a joy to be able to meet in person and have a one-on-one ring play! I love finding out more about your stories and visions for your special pieces - working with you to bring your personalised modern heirlooms to life. There's something magical about working together to create a piece that's truly yours." - Tania During the RUUSK In Residence Showcase Appointments, customers enjoy a truly immersive and personalised experience. Each appointment begins with the opportunity to try on various styles that they have adored online, allowing them to see and feel them in person. They can compare these pieces next to their cherished everyday jewellery, to be able to explore pieces that complement their existing collection. The process involves exploring every detail, from different widths and thicknesses to metal and stone colours and setting options. It was an opportunity to discuss every nuance and answer any questions that may have been on their minds, and we were overjoyed that we could assist in this exciting process of dreaming up their perfect RUUSK piece. "Being able to showcase both our classic shapes along with some of our newest pieces was such a pleasure. It brings me great joy to see the myriad of ways my designs can be adopted into your own meaningful jewellery collection and personalised to reflect your own unique style." - Tania LAUNCHING STUDIO APPOINTMENTS Due to high demand and the success of our RUUSK In Residence Showcase over the weekend, we are beyond excited to announce the launch of our limited Studio Appointments. We cannot wait to host you in our Sydney CBD Studio in person and to embark on your wonderful RUUSK journey. Learn more and book now here. THANK YOU FOR HAVING US MAIDO We had the pleasure of holding our first In Residence appointments at Maido. Nestled on the fringe of Darlinghurst and Surry Hills is Maido Cafe, in a small pocket bustling with character and effervescence. Sister store to Surry Hill’s The Provider Store, Maido boasts the same wabi-sabi Japanese lifestyle, championing sustainably sourced and slow-made products. The cafe is minimalistically adorned with Akari lamps, light timber tones and a set apart by their penchant for unique handcrafted ceramics. A big thank you to Tara and the lovely Maido team for hosting us in your beautiful space. Explore to learn more about Maido here.
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RUUSK COUPLE: MADELEINE + JEI
Love has a funny way of finding us, often through the unexpected connections and adventures that shape our lives. For Madeleine and Jei, their journey began with a little help from mutual friends who saw their potential long before they did. From early dates filled with spontaneity and shared playlists to a proposal amidst the serene beauty of Lovers Falls in Corinna, TAS, their love story is a testament to serendipity and undeniable chemistry. As they embark on this next chapter together, Madeleine and Jei are eagerly anticipating the joys of building a life as a team and introducing themselves as the Strolins. Join us as we delve into their heartfelt journey, from memorable firsts to the promise of a future filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures. How did you meet? Or, what are some of your favourite memories of each other in the early stages of dating? We were set up actually! Some friends who really understood the assignment (2 different couples independently and simultaneously attempted to set us up). And ever since then it's been adventure after adventure! On our third date Jei invited me to a wedding (foreshadowing much), our fifth date was, said wedding, where I met all of his friends (who told me that he was obsessed with me). We started dating a week or two later. Jei would make me playlists called "Mads Musts" for me to listen to on the way to work, and would send them to me every day. Essentially, Jei was whipped early on and so was I! I guess that's why 9 months later we were engaged. When you know you know. How would you describe each other in three words? Mads is Bubbly, warm, and gorgeous. Jei is funny, sweet, and genuine. Jei, when did you know that you wanted to propose? And how did you propose to Madeleine? I knew I wanted to propose when I realised it doesn't get better than this. Mads is everything I'd ever look for so I knew I didn't need to keep looking. I proposed at the stairs of Lovers Falls in Corinna, TAS - I didn't go in with much of a plan if I'm honest, but in the moment it all just fell into place with the help of some friends. Madeleine, what did you love most about your special moment? Honestly, I was expecting the proposal every day except the day he proposed! It was a big kayak out to the spot and I was honestly fighting for my life by the time we got there. But, I loved that he managed to surprise me, and it was the most beautiful place I'd ever been (and the kayak back was a breeze with the post engagement high). What are you both really excited about in this next chapter together? We are so excited to build a life together and meet people as a couple. Getting to say "Hi, we're the Strolins" is gonna be really cool. Jei proposed with our 0.4ct Diamond Fine Solitaire Ring personalised with a wider 3mm band, which sits beautifully on Madeleine's finger. Congratulations again to the happy couple, we couldn't be happier to play a small part in your special moment, and we are so honoured to have been so warmly invited to hear about your love story. Wishing you all the love and happiness as you embark on this next journey together.
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HISTORY OF THE HEART
Join us on a journey through time and culture as we uncover the rich symbolism and evolution of the heart motif in jewellery, a testament to love’s enduring power across centuries. DID YOU KNOW? The heart symbolises love in its myriad forms: from romantic passions to familial bonds, friendships, and the essential journey of self-love. Its significance transcends cultures, weaving through human history as a personal emblem of emotion and affection, tailored to each wearer’s unique narrative. ORIGINS OF THE CONNECTIONS BETWEEN THE HEART AND LOVE The heart’s symbolic association with love finds roots in ancient civilisations. In Ancient Egypt, the heart was revered not only as a physical organ but as the vessel of one’s soul, crucial for passage into the afterlife. This belief in purity and lightness resonates through time, shaping perceptions of the heart as a centre for all amorous feelings. Similarly, Roman tradition linked the fourth finger to the heart, as it was believed to possess a direct vein to this vital organ, influencing the practice of wearing wedding rings as a symbol of eternal love and commitment. THE HEART MOTIF IN JEWELLERY By the 14th century, medieval Europe embraced the heart motif in jewellery, poetry, and art, solidifying its status as an enduring symbol of love and devotion. This trend burgeoned further in the 19th century, propelled by Queen Victoria’s affinity for heart-shaped jewellery, including multi-charm bracelets and pendant necklaces, which popularised the motif in Victorian-era fashion. TYPES OF HEART MOTIFS IN JEWELLERY Crowned Heart: A crowned heart symbolically represents love, with the crown sitting atop denoting loyalty. Open Heart: Often depicted in necklaces, the open heart signifies the receiver’s openness to the giver’s affection, embodying reciprocal love and connection. Heart Locket: Originating in the early 1800s, heart-shaped lockets served as cherished keepsakes, 'locking' memories of loved ones away and holding it close to the wearer’s heart. Witch’s Heart: With its tail curving right, the “witch’s heart” evolved from a protective charm for infants to a symbol of being “bewitched” in love by the 18th century. HEARTS AT RUUSK Mini Pear Diamond Toi et Moi Ring Mama and Baby Heart Necklace personalised with 18ct Rose Gold and a star-set Navy Sapphire. Heart of Gold Ring Heart of Gold Studs
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HISTORY OF THE TOI ET MOI RING
Derived from the French words for ‘You and Me’, the Toi et Moi ring has a long and rich history deeply-rooted in celebrating love in all its forms. WHEN DID IT ORGINATE? Toi et Moi rings gained popularity after 1796, when French Emperor Napoleon proposed to his bride-to-be Josephine Queen of Italy with a yellow gold Toi et Moi ring, featuring a pear-cut Diamond and a pear-cut Blue Sapphire. Contrary to the norm at the time, their relationship was based on love rather than political agenda. Josephine was a widow and 6 years older than Napoleon, which was fiercely frowned upon. This gave beautiful symbolism to Josephine’s ring - those of romance, unity and unwavering devotion, which are all still attributed to the Toi and Moi ring today. WHAT DOES IT SYMBOLISE? Featuring two stones nestled side by side, the Toi and Moi is often said to symbolise the coming together of two souls. There is also freedom for creativity, with the option to pair a diamond with a coloured gemstone (or even have both stones be coloured gemstones!) - the diamond representing strength and an everlasting bond while the coloured gemstone embodying uniqueness and individuality. FAMOUS TOI ET MOI RINGS THROUGH THE AGES A famous Toi et Moi Ring was Jackie Kennedy’s engagement ring. Created by Van Cleef & Arpels for her engagement in 1953, her ring featured a 2.8ct Diamond and Emerald, which she later swapped out for a Marquise cut as her tastes evolved. The Toi and Moi ring has not dulled in popularity amongst modern brides. Famously, Emma Ratajkowski got engaged with a large Pear and Cushion cut Diamond Toi et Moi, while Ariana Grande incorporated a Diamond and heirloom pearl to her ring as a nod to her grandfather. Toi et Moi rings albeit visually non-traditional, is a stunning option for the modern bride. Our Mini Toi and Moi Rings are our RUUSK take on this iconic design, incorporating oval, emerald and pear stone shapes to create two stunning rings. We were inspired by love in all forms whether between lovers, family or friends, and adore the idea of Toi et Moi rings as fun matching friendship rings or a special heirloom for mum and daughter - the options are endless and there are no rules when it comes to celebrating love.
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RUUSK COUPLE: MADI + MEIKA
Against the surreal landscape of snowy Lake Louise in Banff, Madi and Meika promised each other forever in a way that was true and unique to them. Adorned in their colourful coats and wedding rings, they said their vows and in a sweet and private moment - a memory they will cherish forever. We had the absolute pleasure of speaking to the happy couple about how they met, their special day saying 'I do' and all their shared, unforgettable memories in between. How did you meet? Or, what are some of your favourite memories of each other in the early stages of dating? Madi met Meika in the local hair salon where she spent over two hours doing a simple trim on Madi's hair. We couldn't stop chatting and laughing and the connection was there from the start. After that Meika went to move interstate and then Covid happened and brought her home where Madi was searching for that beautiful hairdresser that had disappeared. What did your proposal look like? Madi proposed first at beautiful tropical Heron Island on the beach at sunset, Madi used a clam shell as the ring box Meika had found that day when we were snorkeling. Meika proposed back to Madi in a beautiful cabin in the woods in Sunshine Coast hinterland. What was, or were some of, your favourite moments from your wedding? We eloped in Banff in winter. The day was magical, snow was fluttering all day and we said our vows on frozen Lake Louise. Our favourite part was our bright and fun fur coats that stood out in the snowy forest. Can you let us know how you personalised your wedding bands and why this is important to you? We both have special words engraved on our wedding bands, my sunshine and my darlin. These are names we call each other daily. We have had the pleasure of creating Madi's beautiful engagement rings & both of your wedding bands. How has it felt to have your rings handmade for your love story? We love our beautiful RUUSK rings, they have been curated to represent our love for each other and nature, Madi's engagement ring has a sapphire for her love of the ocean and the Luna ring sits on top as a sneaky memory of our first kiss under the moon. It was such a lovely interpersonal experience working with the team at RUUSK, they were accommodating to our preferences and really helped us decide on the right choice. What are you both really looking forward to in your next chapter of married life? We are excited to start this next chapter as wifeys and enjoy the adventures to come. We are looking forward to working towards our future dreams, laughing the whole way through. Madi and Meika's beautiful wedding and engagement ring stacks including RUUSK's Mini Luna Ring, Pear-Cut Sapphire Alma Ring and matching Thin Organic Rings personalised with princess-cut Ceylon Sapphire and Natural Diamond flush-set in band. Once again, we are so beyond excited to hear the happy news. We wish the happy couple a future filled with all the love and happiness as they embark on this next chapter together! Photographer: @nicoleleighphotos
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RUUSK COUPLE: NATASHIA + SIGA
Amidst the alleyways of Tokyo, under twinkling lights and sprinkling rain, Natashia said "yes" to the rest of her life with Siga. These rekindled high school sweethearts, whose fates have seemingly always been intertwined, have embarked on a magical journey together. We had the pleasure of speaking to the happy couple about their shared past and the excitement surrounding the beginning of a lifelong adventure together filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. How did you and Siga meet? Or, what are some of your favourite memories of each other in the early stages of dating? Back when we were in school, we dated for a couple of months but broke up when we decided to go to different schools. Long story short, we met again in Perth by chance at the same university and the flame was rekindled. We used to take long bus rides everywhere as Siga did not have a car back then and we enjoyed it so much, being able to just be together and have long talks along the way! How would you describe each other in three words? I would describe Siga as loving, funny and witty. And Siga would describe me as a hopeless romantic! We loved seeing your proposal in Japan - what does this destination mean to you both? We both love Japan so much - especially Tokyo. We finally saved enough money to go together to our favourite country. I honestly did not expect this proposal at all, which makes it even more memorable. Growing up, I had family in Japan, but this was our first trip overseas together! Siga proposed with a Mini Solitaire Ring, personalised with 2 x Star-set Navy Sapphires Tell us about your proposal, and what were some treasured memories from this day I love taking photos, so I mentioned to Siga that I would book a photographer to capture us in Tokyo. Little did I know, he had then separately contacted our photographer with the news that he was planning a surprise proposal - I wasn’t expecting this at all! On the day of the proposal, it was raining and we were soaking wet. In order to keep everything a secret, Siga and the photographer agreed on a code word for when he was about to get on one knee. While wandereing the streets of Tokyo, Siga said, "Let’s do a titanic pose!” Understandably, I was super confused as to why we would want to do a titanic pose in the middle of an alleyway! It was at that moment, he got on one knee and asked me to marry him. I went blank - it seems so did Siga - as he put the ring on my right hand. After a few seconds, I finally realised what happened and broke down crying. What are you most excited about in this next chapter together? Having someone that I know will always stand beside me, be there for me no matter what life throws at me, in happy or sad times. He always works so hard to make me happy. He even did more overtimes at work when he was about to buy the ring, as he knows I loved it so much and I have told him multiple times that I want this ring. We know that we will always support each other and have such a wonderful adventure together Just grateful we get to spend it with each other We are so excited to hear the happy news all the way from Tokyo, and cannot wait to see what the future holds for the couple. Congratulations once again Natashia & Siga! Photographer | @honoca.miyazaki
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RUUSK COUPLES: RACHEL AND STU
Heading to an ocean-side cliff top where their love story first began, Rachel said ‘yes' to forever by Stu’s side amidst the gentle February breeze. From friends to lovers and now fiancés, their journey unfolds like a tale spun from the stars. Entrusting us with their precious love story, we spoke with them about some special moments from the proposal, and what the future holds for the newly engaged couple. How did you meet? Or, what are some of your favourite memories of each other in the early stages of dating? Rach: We first met because we both moved from interstate to study music at a creative arts college. We were just friends for years before getting together. At some stage we found ourselves really enjoying each others’ company, spending more time together and slowly something romantic developed. How would you describe each other in three words? Rach: I would describe Stu as Thoughtful, Loyal and Creative Stu: Rachel is Caring, Timeless and Cheeky Rachel's Oval Diamond Wide Organic ring Stuart, when did you know that you wanted to propose? And how did you propose to Rach? There wasn't a specific moment for me, but the "knowing" came over time as Rach and I grew in our relationship and love for each other; it was through the highs and lows of life. I decided to propose at the same location where we had our first date! A Friday evening around sunset on a headland just high enough to catch the sunset too - the sun, however, had other plans & went into hiding! I planned a dinner with some friends to celebrate Rach's birthday as the 'ruse', creating an easy opportunity for me to tell Rach 'it's a nice restaurant so dress up!' In order to get Rach to the headland before 'dinner' and without suspicion, I planned for a couple friends to have ‘pre-drinks’ with us on the headland. Our friend's arrived before us to help set up the picnic and make the magic happen. As a final surprise, I arranged for Rach's sister & best friend to fly down from the Sunshine Coast to be there to celebrate! We drank some Champagne by the ocean, then went to 4 Pines Brewery for a Parmy & a Pint to celebrate! Rach, what did you love most about your special moment? It was really special getting engaged in the spot we had our very first date. It was made even more special by all our closest friends hiding nearby, ready to celebrate with us. What are you both really excited about in this next chapter together? We are really excited to get all the people we love together in one place to celebrate our marriage! We are also excited to do some fun travel together. We are truly over-the-moon for this happy couple and cannot wait to see what the future holds for them. Congratulations once again Rachel and Stu - we are so happy for you! Photographer | Jesikah Rodriguez @byjesikah
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RUUSK COUPLES: Anneliese and Rob
Minimal, intimate and care-free would be the first three words that come to mind when describing RUUSK couple Anneliese and Rob’s Cocktail Bar Wedding. Much like their love-story, their wedding was kept simple, focussing on the purpose of the day - to celebrate their devotion and commitment to each other. We asked Anneliese to share some moments from her and Rob’s special day, as well as some insights into their life so far, and what delights are in store for the newly married couple’s future. How did you meet? Or, what are some of your favourite memories of each other in the early stages of dating? We met at our local football/netball club (not very romantic ) however, Rob had reached out and I eventually agreed to a date with him. From the moment we sat down to have a coffee it was an instant connection. We ended up talking for hours about our shared interests, hobbies and passions. We both walked away knowing that we were going to be a part of each other's lives in a big way. Even to this day, we both treasure is how easy our relationship was. We were both head over heels for each other and wanted to spend as much time as we could together. How did Rob propose? A: Rob proposed on my 30th birthday! I seriously did not see it coming! It was such a surprise and a special moment for sure. It was amazing to think in this new chapter of my life I would also get to be with my forever person. R: After having the ring for a few months, I knew I wanted to propose to Anneliese and surprise her. Starting a new decade of her life in her 30's was a big thing for her. I wanted her to know that we were in it together. Rob proposed with our 0.5ct Diamond Wide Organic Ring personalised with a gorgeous Argyle Champagne Diamond. Anneliese then choose to pair her engagement with with our Wide Organic ring to create her timeless wedding and engagement ring stack. We have had the pleasure of creating your beautiful engagement ring & wedding band. How has it felt to have your rings handmade for your love story? I truly love my RUUSK engagement and wedding rings. They speak to my style and my dream to one day pass them down to future children. I love that they're classic with a twist such as the width and the champagne diamond that Rob chose to fit the band with. On my birthday Rob actually gifted me a RUUSK chain necklace I had been pestering him for, unbeknownst to me that he would be proposing with something else from RUUSK! For our one year anniversary and in lieu of a traditional eternity band, I plan on a RUUSK pendant for the chain to commemorate our marriage. What was, or were some of, your favourite moments from your wedding? Our wedding was a very low key, last minute affair! (I bought my wedding dress 1 month out and picked it up from alternations 4 days before the wedding!) After a late church ceremony our guests and us headed over to Bar Jayda in Melbourne. We did a standing canapes night for a party atmosphere and ditched all of the 'traditional' wedding things like cake, first dance, flowers, bridal party etc. It was exactly what we wanted, all of our favourite people, in a relaxed setting enjoying themselves. Our favourite thing about our wedding was being able to be ourselves and just have a dance and a bit of a party. Oh and also the food was amazing! What are you both really looking forward to in your next chapter of married life? Maybe this is boring but we are looking forward to just doing life together! We are planning to honeymoon in Spain & Portugal in March which will be amazing. We also love seeing parts of Australia in our campervan. Anneliese and Rob, photographed by Naomi from @nmphotographs_ Anneliese and Rob's Wedding Suppliers: Location: Bar Jayda | @barjayda_ Wedding Dress : Prea James Bridal | @preajames_bridal Rings: RUUSK | @ruusk
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Sensational Spinels
Discover the spinel - This little powerhouse gemstone is known for its variety in vibrant colours, which is often mistaken for Ruby!
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RUUSK COUPLES: MEGAN & LUCAS
Megan and Lucas designed their wedding rings with RUUSK. Their gold rings feature black diamonds and special hand-engraved date and initials that they chose themselves.
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7 Fascinating Things You'll Love About Sapphires
Sapphires have a long history dating back to ancient civilisations. These gemstones are incredibly tough and are one of the most popular diamond-alternative engagement ring stones. Among the sapphire hotspots in the world, Australia is most renowned for producing deep blue tones and Parti Sapphires.
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A Thoughtful Gift Guide for Your Loved Ones
Here's a carefully curated list of some special jewellery pieces from our collections that are perfect to gift your near and dear.
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