This ring was inspired by a one-pound bag of mixed "Herkimer Diamonds" that Erica Weiner found at the NYC Gem and Mineral Show last year. Despite their diamond misnomer, Herkimers are are actually six-sided, double-terminated quartz crystals and are relatively valueless. Nevertheless, unscrupulous jewelers during the Civil War often tried to pass off these stones as the more precious variety. We love the visual joke created when these severely flawed, yet impressively sized stones masquerade as diamonds in our version of the classic "solitaire" engagement-ring setting. A hand-cast sterling silver raised bezel grips the Herkimer with four square-wire prongs. Every unique stone is set by hand; expect yours to have irregularities like cracks, dark spots, and milky-colored mineral impurities.

Erica Weiner Jewelry is  a grassroots company that was started in 2005 between Erica and co-founder Lindsay Salmon. Inspired by their travels, each piece draws on vintage materials, curiosities in nature, and are designed with a tongue-and-cheek sense of humour. All of their jewelry is 100% handmade in New York City and each line has an emphasis on craftsmanship and affordability. Erica Weiner Jewelry's packaging is also environmentally conscious and a percentage of profits are donated to various charities.