Paul Spurgeon designs episcopal ring for Bishop of Gloucester

British designer Paul Spurgeon has designed an episcopal ring commissioned by the recently consecrated Bishop of Gloucester, Rachel Treweek. 

Treweek, who is the third female bishop but the first female diocesan bishop – a more senior position than the other two female bishops, commissioned Spurgeon to design her episcopal ring – a ring worn by clergymen – in April.

The finished piece is a highly-polished, sterling silver ring with two satin finished 18ct gold crosses which sit alongside a 12.38ct oval cut rich-purple amethyst.

Spurgeon said: “I am honoured to have been asked to design and create a ring for Rachel. She discovered the work I was doing in South Africa, which in its small way helps local people into work and trains them in a profession.”

He said that the ring represents a “chalice which holds the amethyst symbolising the blood of Christ”.

To accompany the ring Spurgeon also designed Treweek an episcopal cross. Measuring 110mm in length and 80mm in width, the cross is made in sterling silver and has a satin and polished finish set with 21 1.5mm amethysts.