Koru Engagement Ring

About This Design

The bespoke Koru engagement ring designed around a story, a heritage and a love of nature. The Koru was commissioned by Dave, in April 2018 as a surprise for his partner Laura, and it remains one of the most personal pieces we have ever created.

Dave, a passionate photographer, came to us wanting something with an organic, natural feel that would somehow introduce Laura’s New Zealand heritage into the design. After some research, he settled on trying to incorporate an element of the silver fern, a national symbol of New Zealand. As new leaves of the fern unfurl, they form a spiral shape known in Maori as “Koru”, meaning “loop”. This motif is used throughout traditional Maori art and symbolism, and it became the cornerstone of the entire design from that moment on.

We felt that by introducing a Koru detail into the shoulders of the ring, it would give an elegant but simple design feature that enhanced the overall flow, while cementing Laura’s New Zealand heritage in their future together. We fine-tuned Dave’s idea and produced sketches followed by detailed drawings as a proof of concept.

Dave had to work out Laura’s finger size without giving the game away. At one point he surreptitiously “borrowed” a ring that Laura wore on the same finger but on the other hand, so we could get as close as possible to her correct size.

Once we had the finger size, we went straight to production, setting the 0.75ct GIA certified natural diamond Dave had chosen for his design. The result was a stunning, organic engagement ring that matched the inspiration and brief perfectly.

The Proposal

Dave had already decided that when he proposed, it had to be memorable, in a stunning setting and a complete surprise. They had booked a two week adventure to Iceland, and it felt like the perfect opportunity.

The problem was that he didn’t know exactly when, where or how he was going to do it. With the ring on his person for almost 24 hours a day, the days went by and he struggled to get the feeling that “this is the right place”.

That changed on 8th July 2018 when they visited Jokulsarlon, a glacial lagoon with still, crystal clear water and hundreds of icebergs floating towards the sea. These icebergs, varying in shape and size, had sheared off Vatnajokull, the largest glacier in Iceland and second largest in Europe.

At the end of the lagoon there is a beach littered with crystal clear fragments of icebergs that glisten, shimmer and sparkle like diamonds. The beach is nicknamed “Diamond Beach”, and it seemed like the most fitting place to ask the question.

They wandered along the shores of the lagoon until they were away from the tourists. It was just Dave, Laura, icebergs and a family of ducks. He set his camera up on a tripod and suggested they take some silly pictures jumping into the air with the stunning backdrop.

As Laura jumped up, arms and legs stretched as far as she could in the biggest star shape possible, Dave got down on one knee, opened the ring box (made from New Zealand wood), looked Laura in the eye and asked her to marry him.

She was completely bamboozled. Dave could see the cogs turning as she processed what had just happened. After a few seconds, which felt like minutes, and a nervous giggle, she said “Yes”.

After a while of contemplation and enjoying the otherworldly scene in front of them, they continued to explore the lagoon, Diamond Beach and some of the local glacial spurs. The setting was absolutely magical, and neither of them could have imagined a more perfect place to become engaged.

Congratulations Dave and Laura. We love making bespoke engagement rings inspired by nature. Taking something beautiful and natural and incorporating it into a symbol of love is something that really gets our creativity flowing.

Design Details

The Koru is built in platinum with a 2.5mm band at the centre that tapers as it flows into the signature fern motif at the shoulders. The crossover design creates open shoulders, with the Koru spirals sitting either side of the stone in a way that feels organic rather than engineered.

The four round claws hold the diamond securely while keeping the setting open and airy, allowing light to enter from all angles. The claw style is deliberately rounded to stay in keeping with the natural, flowing character of the shoulder design.

We designed the Koru to be wedding ring compatible from the outset. A straight wedding band sits flush against the ring without any gap, which was important to get right given the crossover shoulder detail.

The Koru is available as a round or oval diamond design. If you are drawn to the organic aesthetic but want to adapt the design to suit a different stone shape or add your own personal detail, get in touch and we will work with you to create something entirely yours.

Your Diamond

The original Koru was set with a 0.75ct natural GIA certified diamond, chosen by Dave for its balance of size and brilliance. If you would like us to recreate this design, the Koru is available with both lab-grown and natural diamonds, so you can choose the stone that best reflects your values and budget.

Our lab-grown diamonds are graded to D or E colour with VS1 to VVS1 clarity and an Excellent or Ideal cut. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, optically and physically identical to mined diamonds. They are real diamonds, certified independently by the IGI or GIA.

For natural diamonds, we source stones individually to match your requirements. Get in touch to discuss your preferences.

How It Works

The Koru is a bespoke design, so every commission starts with a conversation. Whether you want an exact recreation of the original or something inspired by it with your own personal touches, we will guide you through the process from initial concept to finished ring.

Visit us at our studios in Didsbury or Manchester city centre, or get in touch by phone or email to start the conversation.

Crafted by Hand

Every Si Vis Amari ring is handcrafted individually and hallmarked in accordance with UK law. The Koru is made specifically for you by experienced craftspeople who understand that every piece tells a story.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have the Koru made with a different diamond shape?

Yes. The original Koru features a round brilliant diamond, but we also offer an oval version. If you prefer a different shape entirely, we can discuss how the design would adapt to suit it. The flowing, organic character of the shoulders works well with softer shapes.

What does the Koru symbolise?

Koru is the Maori word for “loop” and refers to the spiral shape formed by an unfurling silver fern leaf. In New Zealand culture it symbolises new life, growth, strength and peace. It is widely used in traditional Maori art and has become a recognisable symbol of New Zealand identity.

Is the Koru engagement ring compatible with a wedding ring?

Yes. The Koru was designed from the outset to sit flush with a straight wedding band. Despite the crossover shoulder detail, there is no gap between the two rings when worn together.

How much does a bespoke engagement ring like the Koru cost?

The cost depends on the diamond specification and any design modifications. Because the Koru is a bespoke commission, we provide a detailed quote once we understand your preferences. Contact us to discuss your budget and requirements.