Additional Coverage:
- A woman had no idea what style engagement ring she wanted until she found a $12 piece at a Japanese antique store (businessinsider.com)
Local Model Finds Engagement Ring Inspiration in $12 Thrift Store Find
Adelaide model Adele Snowball’s engagement story is one for the books. Her now-fiancé, Oliver Raggatt, initially proposed with a toy ring from a Japanese vending machine during a trip abroad.
This playful proposal paved the way for a unique engagement ring journey. The couple, both music lovers, stumbled upon a $12 ring in a Japanese antique store that became the inspiration for Snowball’s custom ring.
Snowball and Raggatt’s connection began with a shared love of music. They met through a dating app and quickly discovered they frequented the same concerts and shared a passion for vinyl records.
Raggatt’s initial proposal took place at a restaurant featured in Snowball’s favorite film. He surprised her with the toy ring, a moment that brought Snowball to tears.
The couple’s adventure continued with a karaoke celebration, joined by some friendly local businessmen. The next day, Raggatt found a plastic diamond that perfectly fit the toy ring, further solidifying their unique engagement story.
In Osaka, Snowball found a vintage ring that caught her eye. It mirrored the colors of the toy ring, and her birthstone is emerald, making it a perfect fit.
Raggatt secretly bought the ring and proposed again. The vintage ring then served as the blueprint for Snowball’s final engagement ring, incorporating family heirlooms and designed by a local jeweler.
The final ring features a lab-grown diamond and a green tsavorite garnet stone in a yellow gold setting. Snowball cherishes the ring and the memories associated with its creation. She plans to incorporate the original toy ring and the thrifted ring into their 2026 wedding.