“In July 2021 I lost my little man, Dougal, a week before his 13th birthday. It was sudden, unexpected and a huge shock. A scan revealed a tumour on his spleen which had very quickly and aggressively spread to his liver. There was nothing we could do. To say I was heartbroken, was a huge understatement. 

I wasn’t ready to lose him and was desperate to find ways to make him feel as close to me as possible. I happened upon an article about creating diamonds from your loved one’s ashes and therefore, investigated further. After some research, I chose to proceed with Heart In Diamond and Wylde. And so, the journey began in August 2021. 

To make the diamond extra special, I added the fur of Bella, my almost 16yr old Miniature Schnauzer, who had been Dougal’s big, little sister since the day we brought him home and welcomed him into our family.

 I named the diamond “My Little Angel Cakes”, a term of endearment I called them.

 It has been an emotional journey, in which Anita at Heart In Diamond and Nicholas at Wylde, have guided me through with patience and understanding. Anita, who is very passionate and empathetic, assisted me in choosing the best colour diamond to represent my fur babies. And Nicholas, a talented jewellery designer, ensured the design was special but appropriate for everyday wear – we went through several elaborate designs!  

 On June 14, the finished ring was unveiled. It is more beautiful than I could have imagined! It has been an emotional journey, with the most incredible outcome. Thank you to all involved!”

Hayley Gathercole xx.