By LAURA BROOKHART / Community Columnist

Some distinctively different rings made by David Schlueter recently drew my attention while visiting his Buck Creek Stained Glass studio.

Schlueter is now creating rings from an assortment of coins.

“I saw my first coin ring a couple years ago at a wedding reception,” Schlueter said. “I thought then it would be a really cool thing to make, but I sort of forgot about it until after my accident.

“While I was sitting and watching “Dances With Wolves” for the 30th time, I just happened to come across a listing for somebody doing these rings, so I started doing a little research on the web.”

The customer can bring in a coin of their own choosing—perhaps meaningful to them in some way—and show him which specific markings on the coin they especially want to see in the finished ring. He also needs the ring size in advance to ensure fit.

Schlueter suggests a Walking Liberty Half Dollar or a Morgan Silver Dollar, which depicts Liberty. (The coin is named for its designer, United States Mint Assistant Engraver George T. Morgan.)

“I recently made a ring from a Dutch coin (Koningin der Nederlanden) for a gentleman. He chose it for the overall appeal of the design, but when it was finished, the name Juliana was preserved on the inside rim—which happens to be his daughter’s name!”

Some foreign coins with scalloped edges can be used, also, resulting in a ring with a scalloped edge. Schlueter has used pesos, as well, for a finished ring with a warmer, more coppery finish.

The initial step is to punch a hole in the center of the coin, for which Schlueter uses a hydraulic press. He uses a lap grinder to smooth the outer edges and continues refining and shaping via torching and other techniques which he has gradually perfected for his craft.

A showcase in the store displays an array of glass pendants and earrings that make great gifts. And, of course, Buck Creek Stained Glass will continue to offer classes and materials for those interested in learning to work with stained glass. Gift certificates are available.

See more at Facebook.com/BuckCreekStainedGlass/ or call Schlueter at (205) 541-3322.