Banded Agate Statement Ring

This one of a kind Saturn banded agate statement ring features a beautifully patterned Brazilian gemstone in a substantial handmade Argentium sterling silver setting.

• Materials: Saturn banded agate from Brazil and solid Argentium sterling silver
• Stone: Natural rectangular Saturn banded agate with rounded corners
• Ring size: 8
• Ring top: Approx. 29 mm x 25 mm
• Weight: 15.2 grams
• Setting: Heavyweight handmade sterling silver bezel
• Band: Hand hammered triple sterling silver band
• Silver hallmark: 940
• One of a kind + ready to ship

I found this Saturn banded agate on one of our gemstone buying trips to Tucson. The booth specialized in this particular agate from Brazil and had large natural specimens displayed alongside the polished stones. I loved being able to see the material in its larger form and all of the incredible layers and colors running through it.

This particular stone is so beautiful to me because it almost looks like a tiny painting. The horizontal bands remind me of horizon lines in a soft, foggy landscape. There are brownish orange tones toward the bottom along with soft blue green, gray, pale pink, lavender and icy green. I love muted earth tones, and the natural combination of colors in this stone feels incredibly calming.

I actually purchased this stone as part of a matched pair and held onto them for about four years. I used the other matching stone to create a pendant, so the two pieces have the same beautiful natural colors and banding. The stones were too substantial for the earrings I initially considered, and I ultimately loved the idea of allowing each one to become a larger focal piece.

For this ring, I did not want to add a lot of extra design. The stone was already doing everything I wanted visually, so I focused on the craftsmanship of the setting and making the silver substantial enough to support it. I created a heavyweight bezel with a simple rim around the agate, almost like a frame around a tiny landscape.

Because this is a large statement stone, I also wanted to make sure the ring would sit comfortably and securely on the finger rather than constantly spinning. I created a triple band that is wider where it connects to the stone and gradually becomes narrower toward the back. The wider area helps balance the substantial top and hug the finger, while the narrower back keeps it comfortable to wear.

I also love the way the three bands look with the stone. The open spaces between them create repeating horizontal lines that subtly echo the natural banding running across the agate. I added a light hammered texture to the band for one more understated handmade detail.

This is definitely a substantial statement ring, but everything about the design was kept intentionally simple and functional so that the agate could remain the focus. After holding onto this stone for so long, I am really happy with what it finally became. It is beautifully comfortable on the hand, completely unique and such a special stone to look down at on your finger.