Crafting Stories: Hattie Rickards Shares Her Favourite Bespoke Commissions

Meeting a jewellery designer dedicated solely to creating bespoke commissions is always fascinating. Why? First, because there are so few of these jewellers, and secondly because they are a treasure trove of stories! They collect fascinating life experiences and inject them into dream jewels that make client fantasies a reality. Hattie Rickards, a UK-based jewellery designer I met recently on a trip to London, is one such bespoke specialist. Something about her diamond rings drew me in, prompting me to delve into the stories and histories behind them. Are you ready to learn them with me? If so, carry on reading…

Hattie Rickards’ jewellery superpower is her ability to unearth the essence of the individuals she works with. I discovered that both Hattie and I share an inquisitive nature, with the type of curiosity that drives her to study her clients’ personalities and values as if she were studying for an upcoming exam. With over a decade and 1,000 bespoke commissions to her credit, Hattie Rickards Jewellery epitomises her unique blend of passion and expertise—taking clients on a journey to create pieces that are not only beautiful but also profoundly personal. Below are some stories that captivated me, each offering a glimpse into the intimate storytelling that defines Hattie’s work.

Jane’s Bespoke Sapphire Power Ring

Imagine a witty, sharp, and stylish businesswoman with an heirloom sapphire that didn’t match her unique style. It was originally set in a ring inherited from her mother that, despite being beautiful, didn’t quite resonate with Jane’s aesthetic. What did Hattie offer? A ‘Power Ring’! Nestled within a bold gold frame, the sapphire is elevated by a stepped bezel and signature HRJ custom-cut sapphire arches. The bespoke carré-cut diamond ‘V’ details on each side of the ring add an extra layer of powerful confidence. This piece not only preserved the cherished memories associated with the heirloom but also provided Jane with a ring that she could wear and enjoy daily— a piece that is undeniably hers. “There she is – my power ring,” was Jane’s first thought when opening the box.

Laura’s Bespoke Family Pendant

Now let’s ‘meet’ a woman called Laura who is about to celebrate her 40th birthday alongside her proudest achievement – her family. This time, Hattie proposed a pendant with a classic sphere design, which is, in fact, the only classic thing about it. The intriguing part is that each orbiting line of gems around the pendant spells the initials of her family—Laura, her partner, and their three children—rendered in Morse code using their birthstones. This design captures the essence of family, offering a timeless heirloom that Laura can proudly wear, keeping her loved ones close to her heart. She shared: “I wanted it to be original and creative, but I had no image in mind of the finished piece. I was blown away by Hattie’s design and vision; she understood and articulated my hopes for this piece so beautifully.”

Portia’s Bespoke Aquamarine Engagement Ring

Next, there’s an unconventional engagement ring crafted for a client residing in Turkey, which is not just an engagement ring but also a stunning tribute to her picturesque seaside home. With a desire to carry a piece of the tranquil sanctuary she shares with her partner, Portia dreamt of a ring that would encapsulate her coastal views without being conventional or dainty. So, what did Hattie propose? A bold, geometric design with an octagon-shaped custom-cut aquamarine to mirror the mesmerising hues of the sea. It was paired with graduating blue sapphire baguettes to evoke the seamless transition from sky to water. The use of yellow and white gold fused together symbolises Turkey’s sandy shores and eternal sunshine. This bespoke creation encapsulates Portia’s cherished surroundings and represents her “little piece of sky” and where she is happiest in the world.

Cinny’s Fancy Diamond Pendant

What can a woman who ‘has it all’ be missing in her jewellery box? Something unique and personal, of course, which you can’t buy just by walking into a jewellery boutique. So, when the time came to celebrate a 10th wedding anniversary, Cinny came to Hattie for something that would have a deep meaning and a family feel. Hattie tells the story: “Cinny is an interior designer with a linen and wallpaper line. She has a good eye for colour and style, so this was the outcome of a true collaboration between us.” Hattie came up with an easy-to-wear reversible pendant with one side adorned with Cinny’s family birthstones, delicately star-set to represent each member, while the reverse showcases a stunning cognac diamond. It is framed by translucent guilloché enamel in a harmonious palette of pale pink, soft blue, and rich brown, culminating in a radiant starburst engraving in gold. This pendant is the result of the efforts of several master craftsmen, including an enamel master who creates pieces for Fabergé.

Ellie’s Bespoke Diamond Halo Ring

Let’s shift our attention to a monochrome jewel commissioned by a returning client, Ellie, who has been building a collection of treasured HRJ heirlooms. She had inherited a diamond ring from her grandmother and sought to transform its precious stone into a bespoke piece that would preserve its sentimental value while reflecting her own personal style. To offer the client something truly hers, Hattie allowed her creativity to flow. She proposed a halo design, encircling the brilliant-cut heirloom diamond with alternating custom-cut tapered baguettes and carré-cut diamonds for a total of 6.44 carats. This arrangement produces a dazzling starburst effect, amplified by a bright, white platinum frame. The design beautifully blends the past with the present, resulting in something timeless and one-of-a-kind. “Hattie took my brief and created something otherworldly,” Ellie says. “This is what her clients can expect from her passion and creativity.”

What I truly appreciate is how each piece emerges from a deeply personal and collaborative process. Hattie’s designs are not merely the result of her artistic skill; they are the culmination of a beautiful partnership founded on mutual trust and respect between the designer and her clients. Each bespoke item symbolises trust, creativity, and enduring connection—elements that transform simple jewellery into priceless treasures.