The “Ellenistico” Ring
The “Ellenistico” Ring is L’Arte Nascosta’s signature signet ring. Developed in collaboration with Master Goldsmith, Paolo Penko, each ring is an heirloom piece designed to evoke the centuries-old esthetic of Florentine art and architecture.
Each signet ring is designed exclusively for the patron that commissions it, and is masterfully crafted to forever express the personal meaning that he or she would like the ring to convey.
Whether representative of love, family or a personal life philosophy, each ring is a lasting connection to something greater and more profound than the object itself.
Step 1. Design
Designing the motif of the ring’s engraving is the first step of every commission. We consult with the patron to understand the personal meaning that he or she would like the ring to convey, and design a custom motif by extrapolating symbolic details from Renaissance art and other historic references.
The resulting motif is a uniquely personal symbol firmly rooted in centuries of historical provenance and a distinctly Italian flavor.
Step 2. Pre-production
Once the patron approves the motif design and confirms his or her finger size, a finalized order is sent to Maestro Penko in Florence, who begins production by casting the ring in .925 Sterling Silver, or 18k Gold. He then sizes the ring, and applies our signature cesoro finish.
Cesoro is a historic finishing technique that was developed by the Etruscan Civilization and calls for the use of a series of specialized hammers to apply a hammered stipple finish to the surface of jewelry.
Step 3. Engraving
Once the cesoro finish has been evenly applied to the ring’s surface, the Maestro proceeds to engrave the ring by using a series of specially sharpened engravers, called bullini.
Step 4. Finishing & Delivery
When the engraving is complete, the ring is submerged in a sulfuric solution, which turns its entire surface black. Maestro Penko then buffs the high points of the ring, leaving the engraved areas blackened, or brunito.*
The Ring is ready to be delivered to the patron along with a certificate of authenticity, handwritten by Paolo Penko, and the Maestro’s hand-drawn sketch study of the engraving.
*This production phase is not applicable to commisisons in 18k gold.
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Discover more about Maestro Paolo Penko.