“Old world” is my own term for a faux finish that is also known as "fresco," "distressed plaster," "Tuscany," and other names. The finish is meant to look like that of an old exterior wall in Europe, a kind usually found near the Mediterranean Sea. You see these beautiful walls in places like Italy, the South of France, Spain, and Greece. In reality it occurs on stone buildings that are plastered with calcium paint. Calcium paint partially dissolves in water and tends to fade in the sun. The rain and the sun discolor it in a graceful way. Add to that age and the exposure of different layers applied at different times, and you get the look that we associate with “old world” Europe.
How does one create this finish in a fraction of time that it took nature to achieve? In the world of faux finishing it is done by manipulating several layers of paint until you have achieved the desired look. For example, I put dark colors over light in random shapes and sponge it off just as the paint begins to dry. This gives a pattern that looks similar to the real thing. Then I sponge on another color to suppress the dark areas and discourage some of the shapes. With highlights and shadows I will encourage other shapes until it looks like the real thing. I also use flat finish paint for a more authentic look because in reality any original sheen has been worn away by the rain and sun.
When I was first asked to do this finish, I thought it was somewhat ridiculous because I grew up next to the Mediterranean Sea where a lot of the buildings that look like this were found in the older, poorer parts of town. This look was not associated with European charm but rather with poverty and depression. As a kid I painted houses in the summers and was asked to erase the worn look with a fresh coat of paint. However, my view is very different now. In these modern times when everything is new and high tech we feel like something is missing. Today, new homes are perhaps the best built and most comfortable ever, but short on character and ambiance such as the “old world” is full of. Since we cannot buy a French chateau or an Italian villa in Newton, MA, we provide a bit of this history and charm with faux finishes. It is a trend that doesn't seem to be going away any time soon.
New And Old World
From simple domed bands to ornate, highly engraved wedding rings, Tacori offers a huge range of hand made wedding bands. Tacori wedding rings can be made from platinum, or white or yellow gold. While some couples prefer a more traditional wedder, many other couples are looking for unique pieces that are a reflection of their individuality.
There are several factors to consider before purchasing your wedding ring:
Lifestyle. Your interests and lifestyle can impact on the best style of wedding ring, particularly if you are planning on never taking the ring off. Those with extremely active pursuits may prefer a more sturdy piece of metal on their finger. If you are planning on removing your ring before heavy tasks, then you may want to consider more ornate carving or engraving on your ring.
White or yellow. Some couples already have extensive jewelry collections, and those folk may well select rings that blend or compliment what they already own. Two tone wedding rings can alleviate the problem for those who wear both white and yellow metals. Tacori offer a wide range of wedding rings worked in both platinum or white gold, and yellow gold together. Those who are great fans of stainless steel watches may prefer the look of a platinum ring to tie in with their timepiece.
Diamonds. Do you want sparkle in your wedding ring or not? Both men and women's wedding rings are now widely available set with diamonds. From a single diamond to a band entirely covered, the choice is yours.
Solo or sets. For many girls the question remains as to whether or not they will always be wearing their wedding ring with their engagement ring. Once married, some girls opt to wear just their wedding band from day to day and slip the engagement ring on for more special occasions. If this sounds like you, then maybe a specifically cut-out wedding ring may not be what you are after.
Wedding rings that are specifically created to match an engagement ring are generally known as "bridal sets". Having a wedding ring made to your engagement ring ensures a snugger fit, and often a more finished look, especially if the engagement ring is carved or not flat along the edge. Fitted sets will sit together better, but sometimes in these instances the wedding ring can look lonesome if worn on its own.
There are many Tacori wedding ring designs to select from, encompassing simple domes to intricate masterpieces featuring diamonds, scrolls, engraving, and carving. All Tacori wedding rings are hand made in California and are only available from authorized jewelry merchants. Generally, a minimum of 4 weeks should be allowed for the making of your ring, but longer time frames may be necessary for some designs.
Both Amiel Mesner & Andy Moquin are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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