A Ring for the Journey: A Blue Jadeite Farewell Gift Between Teammates

Her name is Lauren Hayes, and she’s been with Melissa Carter’s bakery in Seattle since day one.

When Melissa started the shop six years ago, it was just her, a dream, and one oven. Lauren showed up the first week as a part-time helper—and never left. She became the steady hands, the calming voice, the person who knew where every ingredient and every emergency flashlight lived.

“Next month, Lauren’s moving back to North Carolina to be with her family and start something new,” Melissa shared with us. “She’s not just an employee—she’s family. I want to give her something meaningful. Something that stays with her.”

Melissa told us Lauren had always loved deep, ocean-blue tones, something moody and elegant—just like her.

Her budget was around $400 USD, and she wanted the piece to be understated, wearable, and deeply personal.

We found the perfect material: a piece of blue-water jadeite, known for its inky depth and subtle translucency. This particular jade had a midnight undertone, with just enough inner glow to catch the light and feel alive.

From this material, we carved a custom jadeite ring—simple, smooth, and quietly radiant.

Blue jade is said to symbolize clarity, calm, and truth. In many traditions, it also carries the energy of trust between souls—a perfect match for two women who built something together, side by side, one loaf, one day at a time.

“She might not wear it every day,” Melissa said, “but I hope whenever she does, she remembers this chapter—and how much she’s meant to it.”

At TATHATĀ, we believe the best gifts don’t just mark a farewell.

They carry the memory of a shared path—and the courage to walk the next one.

If someone’s about to begin a new chapter in your life,

let us help you honor it in jade.