Made a snake ring for his 15-year-old daughter (silver with chocolate diamond head and ruby eyes). Research into history of serpent rings: from Queen Victoria’s snake engagement ring to modern celebrity wearers. Explores snake symbolism in world mythology (Ouroboros, Aesculapius).
Investigation of the Kimberley Process and Zimbabwe’s Marange diamond fields. Mugabe’s forces seized the fields violently; the Kimberley Process (designed for rebel groups, not governments) struggled to respond. The designation ‘Kimberley Certified’ risks becoming meaningless.
History of wedding rings from prehistoric shell necklaces (82,000 years ago) through Egyptian reed bands, Mesopotamian gold (2500 BC), Roman iron betrothal rings, medieval church benediction, to present-day customs worldwide. Advice on personalizing wedding rings.
