For those who are looking to add an element of the saga to their wedding, they might find what they are searching for in a line of handcrafted rings by Joshua Wendler of MetalWendler.com. His Star Wars-themed rings feature styles inspired by characters such as Darth Vader, or the starbird of the Rebel Alliance. These striking rings are intended for those looking to celebrate their love for both Star Wars and each other.



We reached out to Joshua Wendler with a few questions in order to to learn a little more about him and his products, starting with that which binds us all together, Star Wars itself.

Like many of us, he first became a Star Wars fan watching the films with family, specifically his brother and father. “We always liked science fiction, and Star Wars was a family friendly epic adventure that instantly drew us in to [sic] Luke's "hero's journey". Our love of all things samurai, adventure, and science fiction were executed flawlessly in episode's IV-VI.”

Combining a love of Star Wars with his craft was only natural. Ever since he took a jewelry making class in high school, he has been pursuing his passion. Wendler has been fortunate enough to turn it into his career over the last ten years. In the beginning though, one of his biggest challenges was reaching the right audience. “I had always drawn my own sci fi inspired designs, and even created a few sci-fi inspired wedding rings during my time working for other people. The design aesthetic mostly raised eyebrows, as the general public wondered what outer-space aesthetic had any business meshing with engagement and wedding jewelry.”



With the reinvigoration of the franchise in the last few years, Star Wars merchandise is more prevalent than ever. It has proved to be the perfect time for Wendler to branch out and leave his own mark in the fandom. “I finally saw an opportunity to craft rings with my aesthetic, combined with skills I have been working on for years, and deliver rings to customers whom were ECSTATIC to receive a piece of jewelry inspired by their favorite fandom.”

Diverse and unique designs have always been an integral part of the saga and that rich reservoir informs the style elements incorporated in Wendler’s jewelry. Faction symbols and lightsabers are featured throughout and, with over twenty-five variations available, the options for customization and personal appeal are numerous. Customers can select from a wide array of both metals and gemstones, everything from silver and sapphires to platinum and diamonds. Further customization is also possible, but is usually reserved for premium materials. His own personal favorite piece is one particular Galactic Empire and Rebel Alliance combination ring. “I did a custom version with a purple sapphire center stone that turned out stellar!”



The rings begin their journey from inspiration to final product modestly, as drawings on paper. From there they are translated into 3D computer design before being cast in the chosen metal. “I use the best casters I have found in the industry, and this a crucial part of why my designs stand out for my customers.” After being molded, the pieces are cleaned and set with stones. “I now work with an incredible local stone-setter (over 30 yrs experience) to set all my prong settings.” After a final polish and inspection, they are shipped out inside a “tried and true” faux leather black box. Customers who desire more can request a hardwood box engraved with a custom Star Wars logo.



Available to order either through his personal website MetalWendler.com or his Etsy store of the same name, the current offerings range in price from $225 - $1,450. Orders take between three to five weeks to be fulfilled.