Ethan Schultz - Refraction

Artist: Ethan Schultz
Materials: crystal quartz, sterling silver
Size: 6
Dimensions: 25.4mm x 6.8mm

Artist Statement:
Refraction refers to the bending of light when it passes through a different medium. When light passes through this crystal quartz, a visual distortion occurs. The internal metal ring makes this appear even more dramatic. The textured band appears to move and shift, as if it were under water. Depending on which part of the ring is observed, different effects are shown. Along the sharp edges, a double image of the metal emerges. When looking through the curved top, the metal appears to bend up and through the quartz. The inside texture of the band acknowledges, yet differs from the crystal. It reflects light, but does not distort the image. It is textured and bumpy, contrasting the smooth polish of the crystal. Together, all of these aspects compose a ring that is fun to touch and play with.

Artist Bio:
Based in Aurora, Colorado, Ethan is a jeweler and lapidarist who combines and experiments with different mediums and techniques to build innovative structures. As a minimalist, each work of his focuses on a specific technique or property of a material. In particular, he utilizes texture and line to bring out the form of each object.

This ring is part of Battle of the Rings: Ring Smackdown 2021, an online exhibition and competition. Shop the entire collection HERE, view the matches HERE, and learn more HERE.