Jason Arasheben debuts New York Knicks championship ring design
Jason Arasheben used 22 carats of diamonds and blue sapphires, 180 grams of gold, and nearly 800 individually set stones to design the New York Knicks’ championship rings, which he debuted at the team’s home opener against the Philadelphia 76ers, cbsnews.com reported.
Capturing New York City Grit in Gold and Diamonds
The designer set out to physically represent the environment where the team secured its title. “I wanted something that really captured the essence, the grit, the energy of New York City,” Arasheben said. He noted that designing for this specific franchise carried a distinct weight compared to his previous championship pieces for other professional teams. “This is the mecca of basketball, arguably the greatest city on Earth,” he added.
Engineering Madison Square Garden Inside a Ring
The physical structure of the jewelry functions as a miniature architectural model. “The real DNA behind this, was to capture Madison Square Garden, where this championship was won,” Arasheben explained. The ring opens up to reveal an internal replica of the arena. Mounted on a tiny gold Larry O’Brien Trophy, a 16-point diamond marks the exact 16-point deficit the Knicks overcame in their final game against the San Antonio Spurs.
“When we got the call…I had tearsI can feel the energy of Anthony Mason over my shoulder as he looks down…He started my career…my first client And now I’m making the Knicks championship ring" –– Jeweler Jason Arasheben, Jason of Beverly Hills https://t.co/6qtEu4EDWK pic.twitter.com/xlEZngyaA0”
“We want something that’s not only amazing in design but robust in storytelling,” the designer said.
A Seven-Week Production Timeline Under Pressure
Building the intricate pieces required finishing the entire order within a strict seven-week window. Arasheben drew a parallel between the tight deadline and clutch athletic performance, comparing his workflow to guard Jalen Brunson. “I like to come through in the fourth quarter,” he said. He spent the night before the public debut without sleep.
“When I see their eyes light up and their jaws drop, I know I did my job,” Arasheben said.
Availability and Retail Pricing for Collectors
Jason of Beverly Hills manufactured a total of 200 rings for retail buyers. Each piece is priced at $20,000.