Tom McDanielson is a jewellery designer and goldsmith based in Wiltshire, specialising in bespoke engagement rings, heirloom redesign, and symbolic jewellery through The Middle Green. His work focuses on handmade pieces that balance texture, permanence, and personal meaning.
The Algiz rune, also known as Elhaz, represents protection, defence and awareness. It draws its strength from the elk, whose antlers stand as a shield against foes. Beyond physical defence, Algiz links one to the spiritual realm, fostering receptivity to both its positive and negative influences, guiding one through unseen forces with vigilance and strength.
The Algiz rune is associated with the Norse god Heimdall, the watchman of the gods, and guardian of Asgard.
Ansuz is the rune of divine connection, sacred communication, and inspired truth. It carries the voice of the gods, guiding us through intuition, wisdom and the spoken word. Rooted in ancient echoes, it opens the path to insight, clarity and messages from the unseen.
The Ansuz rune simply means “god”, but is most often primarily associated with Odin, the Norse All-Father
Inguz is the rune of fertile beginnings and quiet power. A symbol of the seed, it holds the promise of growth, rebirth and inner awakening. The rune radiates abundance, vitality and the sacred spark of creation.
The Inguz rune is linked to the god Ing (Freyr), the Vanir god of fertility, prosperity, sunshine, and peace.
Othala is the rune of ancestral roots and sacred inheritance. It holds the wisdom of those who came before, carrying the spirit of legacy, protection and belonging. In love, it speaks of deep bonds and timeless connections rooted in tradition.
The Othala rune’s core meaning is about family, property, and roots; but is associated with Odin in modern interpretations of runes.
Raidho is the rune of sacred journeys, divine rhythm and the dance of cosmic order. When drawn upright, it foretells a harmonious voyage – whether across lands or through a beautiful unfolding of life’s events. Beyond the physical, Raidho whispers of an inner pilgrimage, guiding the soul toward deeper truth and alignment with the universe’s hidden pathways.
The Raidho rune is most often primarily associated with Thor, the son of Odin and Norse god of thunder, lightning, strength, and protection
Need help choosing the perfect rune for you or your loved one? In addition the the popular Seidr collection of rune engraved pebbles, we create bespoke pieces tailored to your exact requirements.
Contact us and we’ll be happy to help you choose the perfect piece or start your bespoke design journey.
We are committed to reducing our environmental impact by using only high quality recycled metals in all our jewellery. By sourcing from trusted and reputable suppliers, we ensure that our recycled materials are responsibly sourced.
We only use ethically sourced stones for our jewellery, ensuring they are conflict free and responsibly sourced. We are dedicated to supporting fair practices, ensuring that the beauty of your jewellery aligns with your values.
Looking for something that’s unique to you? Our bespoke jewellery service ensures every detail is just how you imagined it. Whether you’re looking for custom rings, earrings, bracelets or necklaces, we create jewellery that’s as special as you are.
Discover our curated collection of handcrafted necklaces and pendants embossed with precious stones, designed to elevate any look and compliment your style.
Explore our exquisite collection of handmade earrings including stud and pearl, where style and craftsmanship come together in every design.
Browse our stunning collection of engagement rings, wedding bands, and diamond rings – handcrafted in a variety of styles including halo, trilogy and couples sets.
Explore our exclusive collection of handcrafted bracelets and wristwear, from bold cuffs to timeless gold pieces, each uniquely crafted by our expert jewellers.
Whether you are shopping for an engagement ring, wedding ring, or a ring for yourself; understanding ring sizes is essential to ensuring your new piece of jewellery fits properly.
A poorly fitted ring can be uncomfortable to wear if it’s too tight, or be more likely to slip off if it’s too loose, which could result in the ring being lost.
To help ensure your new ring is the perfect size, our expert jewellers at The Middle Green have created a UK ring size guide.
Use these simple methods to get an accurate measurement of your ring size at home:
Use a Ring Sizer
Ring sizing tools are widely available and low cost. These useful tools can help you determine the ring size for each of your fingers.
Use an Existing Ring
If you have an existing ring, you can find out the size using the table above to ensure you purchase the correct size.
Use a DIY Measurement Tool
Using a piece of string or tailors’ tape can help you determine the circumference of your finger which can be converted into a ring size using the table above.
Tips for Measuring Your Ring Finger
Follow our top tips to ensure that you get the most accurate measurement of your ring finger:
Find the average
Your finger size can change throughout the day. Be sure to take several measurements to work out an average.
Cold weather
Cold weather makes your fingers smaller, so avoid measuring your fingers when cold.
Pick the right finger
Typically ring sizes differ between hands, so measure the exact finger you plan to wear the ring on.
Large joints
If you have larger finger joints, take this into account when measuring. You may need to choose a slightly larger size to ensure the ring can fit over your joints.
How To Find Your Partner’s Ring Size
If you want to secretly find your partner’s ring size to surprise them with a gift or a proposal, try these tips:
Use Existing Ring
Measuring an existing ring that your partner has can give you an accurate size; just ensure they wear the ring of their wedding finger if you’re planning to propose!
Use Your Own Ring Size
Measuring your own ring size and trying your partner’s rings on can help you figure out what size ring they are.
Consider a Promise Ring
If you want to ensure the fit is perfect, consider gifting your partner a promise ring before getting their exact measurements for the wedding ring.
FAQs
Can rings be made bigger or smaller?
If you do purchase a ring that is the wrong size, it can be possible to adjust the size to make it bigger or smaller. However, this will be dependent on the material and design of the ring.
Are ring sizes different for men and women?
While women often wear smaller ring sizes, the ring sizing system is unisex and does not differ between men and women
Can you get half sizes in rings?
Yes. Whilst most jewellers offer sizes ranging from A-Z, it is possible to get rings in half sizes. When choosing a bespoke ring, it will be made to your exact size for a perfect fit every time.
Do UK ring sizes differ from international sizes?
Yes, UK rings are sized using an alphabetical scale, in contrast to European sizing which uses a numerical scale based on circumference and U.S. and Canadian sizes, which use a numerical scale with half and quarter sizes.
Find the Perfect Fit with The Middle Green
Ready to find your perfect ring? At The Middle Green, we offer a curated collection of handmade rings including engagement rings, wedding rings, diamond rings, couples sets and so much more.
Explore our range of stunning rings suitable for any style and occasion now, all available to purchase online exclusively from our online shop.
Wear this piece like a shield of serenity. Amethyst is known for its calming energy and ability to clear the mind. It offers balance, inner peace, and protection — a gentle companion through stress, overthinking, or emotional overwhelm.
Aquamarine
Like the ocean’s stillness and strength, aquamarine brings clarity and calm. Wear this piece as a reminder to breathe deeply and move with grace. A talisman of courage, especially in times of change or emotional tides.
Citrine
Radiating warmth and light, Citrine is a stone of joy, confidence, and abundance. It lifts low spirits, sharpens focus, and fuels creativity – a spark of golden clarity when you’re seeking direction or momentum.
Garnet
Grounding and bold, garnet is a stone of strength, love, and deep vitality. Wear it to feel rooted in your own resilience and to reconnect with what truly moves you — perfect for moments when you need to feel empowered.
Iolite
Often called the “Viking’s Compass,” Iolite is a guide for the inner journey. It sharpens intuition, strengthens resolve, and clears emotional fog – a quiet companion for navigating change or reconnecting with your truth.
Malachite
Let this stone guide your growth. Malachite is known for its powerful energy and deep connection to change. It absorbs negativity, encourages transformation, and protects the heart — a bold presence through emotional shifts and fresh starts.
Onyx
A stone of deep fortitude, Onyx brings structure to scattered thoughts and stillness to restless energy. It protects, focuses, and empowers – an anchor in times of stress, transition, or inner work.
Peridot
Fresh and vibrant, peridot symbolises renewal and release. Wear it to invite positivity, emotional clarity, and new beginnings. A gentle companion during transitions or moments of self-reflection.
Rhodalite
Rich in tone and emotion, rhodalite carries a steady, heart-centered energy. It nurtures love, courage, and self-worth – a grounding presence when you’re healing, growing, or learning to soften without losing strength.
Rose Quartz
The stone of the heart, rose quartz radiates softness and self-love. Wear it as a reminder to treat yourself and others with kindness. Whether you’re celebrating joy or navigating challenges, it brings emotional comfort and warmth.
Tiger’s Eye
Let this stone anchor you in strength. Tiger’s Eye is known for its grounding energy and protective nature. It offers courage, focus, and inner resilience — a steady companion through fear, self-doubt, or times of transition.
Turquoise
Both ancient and timeless, Turquoise offers balance where there’s tension and ease where there’s overthinking. It supports honest expression, calm, and inner wisdom – a soothing talisman for heart and mind.
We are committed to reducing our environmental impact by using only high quality recycled metals in all our jewellery. By sourcing from trusted and reputable suppliers, we ensure that our recycled materials are responsibly sourced.
We only use ethically sourced stones for our jewellery, ensuring they are conflict free and responsibly sourced. We are dedicated to supporting fair practices, ensuring that the beauty of your jewellery aligns with your values.
Looking for something that’s unique to you? Our bespoke jewellery service ensures every detail is just how you imagined it. Whether you’re looking for custom rings, earrings, bracelets or necklaces, we create jewellery that’s as special as you are.
Discover our curated collection of handcrafted necklaces and pendants embossed with precious stones, designed to elevate any look and compliment your style.
Explore our exquisite collection of handmade earrings including stud and pearl, where style and craftsmanship come together in every design.
Browse our stunning collection of engagement rings, wedding bands, and diamond rings – handcrafted in a variety of styles including halo, trilogy and couples sets.
Explore our exclusive collection of handcrafted bracelets and wristwear, from bold cuffs to timeless gold pieces, each uniquely crafted by our expert jewellers.
Every piece you own tells a story, and with the right care, it can last for generations. From delicate gemstones to precious metals, understanding how to clean and maintain your jewellery is key to preserving its sparkle. Our guide walks you through the best practices for all your favourite pieces, so they stay as beautiful as the day you got them.
Whether it’s your wedding or engagement ring, a necklace, or your favourite pair of earrings, every piece of jewellery deserves proper care to maintain its beauty for years to come.
However, without understanding the best cleaning techniques, you may end up inadvertently damaging your jewellery.
Different materials commonly used in jewellery such as gold, silver and platinum require specific cleaning methods. Additionally, gemstones require more careful handling to ensure they aren’t damaged during cleaning.
Our jewellery care guide runs through the most common types of metal and gemstones used in jewellery and how to keep them looking their best.
If you have a bespoke piece from us, we offer complimentary cleans. Get in touch to arrange your clean and keep your jewellery looking its best.
General Care
Regardless of the metal or gemstone used in your jewellery, following these general care guidelines will ensure any avoidable damage and discolouration.
Store jewellery separately in fabric lined cases when not in use to ensure no abrasion damage from rubbing against other jewellery.
Avoid wearing jewellery when cleaning, particularly when using harsh chemicals such as bleach which can damage your jewellery.
Remove jewellery whilst exercising to prevent damage from perspiration.
Remove jewellery when swimming to avoid damage from chlorine or salt.
Apply perfumes and skin products before putting your jewellery on to prevent discolouration.
Remove jewellery whilst showering to prevent damage from hair and skin products.
Keep jewellery out of direct sunlight and humid areas when stored.
Materials
Gold, Rose Gold & Yellow Gold
Whilst gold looks stunning when purchased, it can lose its shine over time with everyday wear. Fortunately, dull gold can be revitalised with simple cleaning techniques.
Soak in gold cleaning solution or warm soapy water for 10 minutes
Gently remove any debris using a soft bristled toothbrush
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
Dry gently with a soft cloth
Polish with a jewellery polishing cloth to restore its shine
Rose gold and yellow gold can be cleaned in the same way. However, as rose gold contains copper, a cleaning formula specifically designed for gold and copper alloys is recommended.
Silver
Silver jewellery can tarnish and lose its shine over time due to oxidisation. Whilst this process is natural with everyday wear, it can easily be restored with cleaning.
Soak in a silver cleaning solution or warm soapy water for 10 minutes
For heavily tarnished silver, white vinegar and water can be used as an alternative
Gently remove any debris using a soft bristled toothbrush
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
Leave to air dry or use a specialist cloth for silver to dry
Platinum & Palladium
Both platinum and palladium are durable and dense metals. However, unlike other precious metals, platinum and palladium are prone to developing a natural matte (patina) over time. To avoid this, the metal should be cleaned regularly.
Soak in jewellery cleaner or warm soapy water for 10 minutes
Gently remove any debris using a soft bristled toothbrush
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
Dry gently with a soft cloth
Polish with a jewellery polishing cloth or soft cloth to restore its shine
Gemstones
Diamond
Despite their durability, diamonds can still scratch if cleaned incorrectly. Additionally, with everyday wear, diamonds can lose their shine.
Soak in diamond cleaner or warm soapy water for 10 minutes
Gently remove any debris using a soft bristled toothbrush
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
Dry gently with a soft cloth
Ruby
Rubies are also extremely durable minerals, second only to diamonds.
Fill a bowl with warm soapy water
Gently remove any debris using a soft bristled toothbrush
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
Dry gently with a soft cloth
Onyx
Similar to diamonds, onyx can be damaged with incorrect cleaning techniques despite how tough they are. Fortunately, onyx is simple to clean.
Wipe the onyx with a cotton cloth to remove any dirt or dust
For tough debris, soak the ring in warm soapy water for 10 minutes
Gently remove any debris using a soft bristled toothbrush
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
Leave to air dry
Opals, Iolite & Pearls
Because organic gemstones like opals, iolite and pearls are softer than mineral gemstones such as diamonds, they require more careful cleaning techniques to prevent damage.
Fill a bowl with warm water with no cleaning solution or chemicals
Use a soft cloth and gently scrub each of the gemstones, do not submerge them
If there is stubborn dirt, use a soft brush to gently remove the debris
Soft gemstones such as opals, iolite and pearls should never be cleaned with steam or ultrasonic cleaners, as this can result in cracking and other damage.
Tsavorite
Whilst tsavorite is harder than other organic gemstones such as opals, pearls and iolite, it should still be cleaned carefully to avoid any damage to the stone.
Fill a bowl with warm water with warm soapy water
Gently remove any debris using a soft bristled toothbrush
Dry gently with a soft cloth
Premium Jewellery from The Middle Green
At The Middle Green, we believe that good jewellery should last a lifetime, that’s why we only use the finest quality materials sourced from reputable suppliers in all of our jewellery.
Visit our online shop to browse a selection of jewellery available to buy online now.
