After working with my husband, Tim, for over seven years now, I have learned that he is generally a low-key guy when it comes to design projects. It's pretty rare to really stun Tim. But we both knew we had something special on our hands when he told me about a ring project he was working on that featured a rough diamond sourced by our clients in Sierra Leone during their shared work in the country. Read on for an incredible story celebrating this couple's journey together, expressed through a stunning design.

How long have you and Mihaela known each other?

Derrin: Since 2004, 19 years. 

What was your first impression of her?

Derrin: She walked in the door to a media conference, and I thought she was the most beautiful woman I had ever seen, plus she exuded this strong but elegant and self-assured presence. 

What inspired you to create this ring?

Derrin: This ring is a celebration of our life and work together in West and Central Africa. We both knew what we wanted to achieve with this ring: an encapsulation of our memories working together as a couple in some of the most difficult yet most rewarding environments. 

What went into your decision to have this ring made with Alx&Co.?

Derrin: We recently returned to the United States after six years working on the continent of Africa. We chose Alx&Co. after several months of research into unique designs, dedicated artists, and trustworthy partners to take our vision to the next level. We found a few designs by Alx&Co. in which the artists showcased the Earth's beauty in the most understated yet elegant ways. 

It was really special working with this rough diamond. Tell us a bit about this exceptional stone and what it represents to you and Mihaela.

Derrin: This ring is a metaphor. It encapsulates our adventures around the world in the Foreign Service, from Guadalajara to Beirut, and six years in Africa, working in Cameroon and Sierra Leone. We wanted an artisanal design for the setting, and the diamond to remain rough, just as it emerged from the ground in Kono, Sierra Leone. Beauty is beauty. There's no need to "reshape" it, no need to "correct" it, no need to "chisel" it. 

Tell us a bit about the design concept. 

Derrin: We wanted a simple, roughly shaped setting, and the rough diamond to be surrounded by 28 smaller diamonds as guardian angels shining their bright souls onto the masterpiece. We knew that we wanted to keep the diamond rough and to maintain an artisanal feel to the setting, in honor of our rough-and-ready adventures around the globe. When we look at the ring, we see its soul shining through. It represents the idea of valuing something or somebody for what they mean to you, and not what they mean to others. 

What surprised you most about the design process?

Derrin: You all immediately understood our goals, and the design process – including technology to preview everything – was perfect. Our vision became your vision, and you made it happen from the first try. 

With 19 years behind you, do you have any advice for other couples who are just starting out?

Derrin: The secret of happiness is in embracing simplicity. 

Thank you, Derrin & Mihaela!