Inês Barbosa

Jewellery maker

©joaos aramago

Five generations of filigree

Inês follows her family’s craft tradition
She learned the local art of filigree from her father
Her pieces are inspired by ancient Portuguese jewellery

Inês Barbosa is proud to be the fifth generation safeguarding her family’s jewellery expertise. “Filigree and granulation techniques run in my family’s blood and I knew when I was 13 that this was what I would love to do for the rest of my life.” Creating her own workshop 15 years later enabled her to apply traditional methods to modern designs inspired by ancient Portuguese jewellery and nature. In Portugal, Inês is regularly invited to prestigious television shows to talk about her art and she represents Portuguese jewellery in exhibitions around the world. Today, she is already transmitting her skills to her daughter Rita, who wishes to pursue the family’s craft and is fully aware of the immense dedication required to master this craft.

Interview

©joaos aramago

©joaos aramago

What makes the filigree jewellery technique so special?: The filigree thread is actually made of two very thin threads twisted together by hand, then cut one by one and placed individually side by side inside the skeleton of the jewel. It is the mastery of the techniques that makes each piece unique and timeless.
Why did you decide to create your own workshop?: I worked with my father for 15 years, learning the skills he had learnt from his father. At 28, I decided to open my workshop with my name to apply these traditional techniques to more contemporary designs and to be free to innovate more.
Is living in Póvoa de Lanhoso important for your work?: Yes. Our village is called Gold Land: there isn't any gold mine, but a long tradition of working gold and silver with the filigree and granulation techniques. A granulate necklace dating back more than 2000 years was found near our castle. It is intrinsic in our culture.
Is the future of your handcrafted jewellery threatened?: I personally don't think so as my daughter is learning the craft. There is also an expanding appreciation for the filigree and granulation handcrafted techniques versus the machine versions with no soul. I am hopeful the younger generation will treasure this heritage.

Inês Barbosa is a master artisan: she began her career in 1978 and she started teaching in 1992