Ten years ago, a sweet little über feminine mink and pearl ring caught my eye—as well as those of a few of my jewelry industry friends. New York City–based designer Stephen Kris made little silver bands with cotton ball–size fluffs of mink—in gray, brown, black, and light or dark pink—set atop, and a lone lustrous freshwater pearl nested in the center. My friend Cindy Edelstein, head of the Jeweler’s Resource Bureau, bought a light pink one and wore it often at industry events. (I even placed one in our defunct Facets consumer publication as part of a gift guide for bridesmaids!) I admired it—along with a never-ending list of other jewels—but for whatever reason, just never bought one…until now.

Stephen Kris black mink, silver, and freshwater pearl ring

Behold, my own black mink and white pearl ring! Stephen made it for me around the holidays, and though early versions were cast, he fabricated mine, giving the thick, sturdy shank a high-shine finish that would make a Bunz bench jeweler proud. And not surprisingly, it has garnered a bunch of compliments—many received last Friday night at the GEM Awards, where many had glimpsed the picture of it that I posted on Facebook earlier in the day. The cool little number retails for from $150 to $175, depending on the size. Stephen said he was making only a few for holiday-time requests, but, considering how many admirers it has once again, he may have to reconsider adding it back to his permanent line.

Stephen Kris light pink mink, gray pearl, and silver ring

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JCK