About 2 years ago I found Janice Byrne Goldsmith on Instagram and was immediately drawn to the talent, artistry and style on display. Janice Byrne is a no-nonsense designer and goldsmith based in Dublin, creating the most wonderful pieces using various metals and gemstones as well as re-working sentimental jewellery.
I had some inherited pieces from my granny that had lived in a box, hidden away for many years. As sentimental as the pieces were, they really weren’t to my taste. Gold doesn’t suit me and one of the rings could be best described as gaudy. I wanted to make use of the pieces, but I was nervous that I might end up destroying something that meant so much to my grandmother and to me.
From my interactions with Janice on social media and from watching such talented work, I decided to make contact. The process of working with Janice was very easy. I sent an email to begin with outlining some ideas that I had. After that we had a phone call and discussed budget. A few weeks later I met with Janice to hand over my precious rings and finalise the design. Everything was very clearly explained to me and my questions were answered without judgement. I could feel that there was such respect for working with something so sentimental and my worries were put at ease.
I wanted a ruby from the ring placed in one of Janice’s evil eye pendants so that I could attach it to a bracelet. I also asked for a silver necklace with a pendant of stars containing other stones from the rings.
I had an idea what each piece would look like from the photos I sent and the sketches Janice made but I was blown away by how perfect they were when I received them.
Now why am I saying this jewellery is more than just an accessory? Well because it is. My necklace and bracelet almost feel like talismans of protection. I feel I have a piece of my granny with me, which is particularly meaningful when I’m nervous or worried about something. Having something that my granny wore so close to me creates a connection that I can’t explain. I am very grateful for that little bit of magic Janice created for me.
Following on from my purchases, I got a gift of hawthorn twig earrings with lichen for my birthday last year that are beautiful. I love that so much of Janice’s work is created from nature. For my birthday this year, Janice is creating another piece for me with more of my granny’s stones and I can’t wait to see it.
I believe every cent we spend and every purchase we make should reflect the world we want to live in. Janice Byrne’s business is rooted in ethics and values (not using blood diamonds, creating pendants for Gaza go Bragh and caring for wildlife to name but a few of these values) and I am happy to be a customer.
Janice’s pieces are beyond special.
www.janicebyrnegoldsmith.com
