When it comes to the annual Art Ring showcase by Tomfoolery London, I’m like a kid at Christmas unwrapping presents—except instead of toys and games, I get images of the newest ring designs from a roster of übertalented artisans, who were each asked to create a single ring that best exemplifies their particular design perspective and technique.
For this year’s sixth edition of Art Ring, Tomfoolery—a retailer in London’s Muswell Hill neighborhood celebrating its 30th anniversary—altered the design challenge by requesting that participating jewelers include three distinct elements (of their own choosing) in their rings, to represent the three decades Tomfoolery has been in business.
These one-of-a-kind rings are now available for purchase online and at the North London store. The Art Ring showcase continues through Jan. 31, 2025. To enjoy this splendid occasion in full, see all the Art Rings on Tomfoolery’s website.
Below are just a few highlights, each followed by a note from the designer who dreamed it up. Lynne MacLachlan calls her Ripple ring pictured at top “a talisman for those who love the ebb and flow of life.” Of the ring, made in sterling silver with nano-ceramic e-coating and fancy-cut topaz (£1,500/$1,878), MacLachlan says: “Seemingly shaped by time and tide, a shell-like swirl of delicately multihued silver pools into a shimmering topaz.”
“Past, present, future. The epitome of our 30 years of Tomfoolery. We learnt but leave the past behind, we live proudly in the present, there is only light in the future.” —Laura Kay
“The Equilibrium ring is all about pure lines, simplicity, elegance, and balance. It sits on the wearer’s finger to bring them comfort and confidence.” —Lebouteiller
“Using my signature chainmail techniques, the Shield ring combines three elements: titanium for strength, gold for depth, and diamonds for glamour. Its unique form, comprising many handmade links that hold each other like an intricate weave, wrap around the finger, revealing a fabriclike texture.” —Evans
“I set out to design a ring that emphasizes the sculptural, pattern-based elements of my work, inspired by the decorative architecture of windowpanes and traditional stained glass. The Nova ring exudes elegance while making a bold statement on the wearer’s hand. As an expansion of my Star collection, this is the largest ring I’ve created, pushing the boundaries of scale for greater impact.” —Faith
“The best things come in threes. The colors of these gemstones remind me of the summer months, sitting together in different shapes and sizes but in perfect harmony—and flanked by three twinkling little diamonds on either side.” —Bowles
“The Silky Sunset & Barnacle ring encapsulates dreamy reflections of the setting sun on rock pools. Silky sapphires are cast directly into golden, glistening barnacles.” —Pepper
“Inspired by the changing seasons and my return to rural North Yorkshire, the Autumn Equinox ring captures the essence of autumn. The lush landscapes of Nidderdale, the scent of autumn leaves, and the light across the fields reignited my creative spirit, reflecting the balance and beauty of the autumnal equinox—a moment of reflection and celebration of the past and future.” —Clarke
“Two stars in orbit, united by a common center, woven into a luminous jewel. Inspired by the natural phenomenon of binary stars in outer space, where two stars orbit a common mass. Far enough apart to collide or be affected by neighboring stars, but bound by their relative proximity and mutual gravitation to each other. The In Orbit ring symbolizes the poetry of longing, a celestial embrace.” —Porche
“The diamond Strata ring was inspired by the exquisite ruby crystal set within it. Struck by its beautiful faceted structure along with its beguiling scarlet and pinky hues, I created the settings which nestle within striations of gold, resembling fragments of rock strata. The two glistening salt-and-pepper diamonds along with the central ruby symbolize 30 glorious years of Tomfoolery!” —Ngyou
“Three distinct diamond shapes come together in the Position ring to symbolize Tomfoolery’s 30 years of brilliance. Our unique setting highlights both the diamonds’ outline and frame, creating a striking geometric contrast and a floating effect. This modern design pays homage to the timeless appeal of diamonds, connecting their rich history with the future and celebrating the journey ahead.” —Jo Nakamura
“The Trilogy ring symbolizes life’s journey through three distinct gemstones: The pink sapphire represents youthful passion and creativity, the emerald signifies nurturing relationships, and the purple sapphire embodies wisdom and maturity. Together these gems, accented by diamonds, form a timeless tribute to love, growth, and the resilience that shapes our story.” —Lama
“To bloom. The Fiortura ring is inspired by the Japanese notion of oubaitori, which is the idea that people, like flowers, bloom in their own time and follow their own individual journeys. A reminder to not compare oneself to others but instead focus on uniqueness.” —Chicco
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