Headlines

This One-Man Business Crafts Rings from Air Force Spy Planes

Published

8 years ago

February 2, 2016

INSTORE Staff

The accessory for the man’s man.

Easily the most awesome ring I've ever made. The #titanium portion is from an #sr71 #blackbird The wood is #teak from the #ussnorthcarolina #woodring #weddingring #weddingband #woodenring #etsy

A photo posted by Steven (@wedgewoodrings) on Jan 25, 2016 at 7:36am PST

Kudos to Wedgewood Rings in Wisconsin, a one-man shop that had the bright idea to make rings using materials from the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird spy planes that the U.S. Air Force once operated, Gizmodo writes. The article says that the titanium outer bands are made from the ejector nozzle of a Blackbird, which was sourced from a retired Air Force machinist. Additionally, the inner wood of the ring is made from teak that was reclaimed from the deck of the U.S.S. North Carolina. The rings retail between $255-$565 on Wedgewood’s website.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”