The Bay Ring

Becca Charlo’s Bay Ring is inspired by the ever-changing coastline of the Isle of Wight, where shifting tides shape the land through time, erosion and movement. Observing the natural rhythm of the sea, she translates these fluid forms into a series of interconnected elements that echo the gentle rise and fall of waves.

The piece was developed through an intuitive making process, allowing material and technique to guide the outcome. Reticulation is used to create organic, unpredictable textures reminiscent of patterns left in the sand, while Keum-boo introduces moments of warmth, reflecting light across the surface like sunlight on water. A combination of claw, collet and tube stone setting allows gemstones to sit within the piece as points of light, chosen to mirror the tones of the surrounding landscape.

Through making this work, Becca has deepened her exploration of texture, form and narrative within jewellery. The Bay Collection marks a move towards more resolved, collection-led work, and a growing confidence in creating pieces that hold a strong sense of place and connection.

The Inspiration

The collection began with observation.

Light moving across the water.
The texture of stone softened over time.
The way the shoreline is constantly reshaped, never fixed.

These details aren’t recreated directly, but translated – through mark-making, form and the subtle irregularities that come from working by hand.

The Making Process

The Bay Ring is individually handcrafted in the studio using recycled sterling silver (925), 9ct yellow gold and 24ct gold applied through the ancient Korean technique of Keum-boo.

The organic textures are created through a process of reticulation, allowing the silver to form naturally textured surfaces that echo weathered rock, shifting sand and the changing shoreline. Rather than highly polished finishes, the ring retains a softer, more organic quality that reflects the natural landscape which inspired it.

At its centre sits a striking dendritic quartz, selected for its naturally occurring inclusions that resemble delicate coastal landscapes captured within the stone. Accents of aquamarine and sky blue topaz introduce subtle flashes of colour, reflecting the tones of sea and sky.

There is a balance between control and unpredictability throughout the making process, where the material itself plays a role in shaping the final outcome. This interaction between maker and material ensures that each ring is unique, carrying its own character and sense of place.