I was surprised at how shiny and beautiful it is in real life. I couldn't contain myself...the same day I got it, I snipped the string holding it together. I spent the next 3 1/2 hours attempting to put it together. Near one in the morning, exhausted, eye-strained, and slightly hysterical the dang thing fell together. (I'm not sure I can put it together again) Needless to say I wrapped a new string around it, but wear it daily. It really is a beautiful ring. I'm contemplating the purchase of another puzzle type ring.