The Art Of Mokume-Gane

We are proud to offer mokume designs, handcrafted on-site. This custom-order wedding set was created from the same piece of mokume, each with a sleeve of yellow gold lining the inside to allow for comfort and fit.

What Is Mokume-Gane?

Mokume-gane is a traditional Japanese metalsmithing technique that produces unique patterns and designs in metal. The term "mokume-gane" translates to "wood grain metal" in English, which accurately describes the appearance of the finished material.

 The technique was developed in the 17th century, primarily for use in sword making, although now it is most often found in jewelry and art.

Read on to see the involved process used to create these stunning pieces.

STEP 1 : LAYERING, HEAT, AND PRESSURE

Different colors and types of precious metal are layered to form a Billet (sort of a metal sandwich), which is then heated and subjected to intense pressure to fuse the molecules together.

STEP 2 : PATTERN DEVELOPMENT

Using various techniques to fold, twist, cut, and layer the metal, the billets are manipulated to start building the beautiful wood grain pattern.

STEP 3: SHAPING THE FINAL PRODUCT

Once the desired effect has been achieved with the billet, it is cut and shaped into our client's ring, then polished and finished.