Rachel Swan

Jewellery maker

©Studio Lugh

©David Reilly

Beauty in simplicity

Rachel creates timeless pieces of jewellery
Her gold jewellery is inspired by Art Deco
She uses fine details and precious stones

As a child, looking through her grandmother’s jewellery box, Rachel Swan did not know making these treasures could be a career. As an adult, she still wears her grandmother’s wedding ring, alongside her mother’s engagement ring. She understands the sentimental value of jewellery. With this in mind, she creates each piece with high attention to detail, offering her customers a gift that will last a lifetime. Although she started her business during the recession, she stayed with her passion and now has an elegant studio in the picturesque courtyard of Marlay Park. At the studio, visitors can view pieces and see Rachel at work at the bench. Here she creates luxurious textured gold, combining it with precious stones to create her unique pieces.

Interview

©David Reilly

©David Reilly

Where did you learn your craft?: In 2005, I began an apprenticeship with artist and jewellery maker Alan Ardiff. Alan creates kinetic pieces of wearable art. During my training, I not only learned technical craft skills, but I also received a great insight into how a craft related business is run.
What do you love most about your profession?: Jewellery is so personal, it means so much when a customer chooses you to be part of their celebration. You’re building meaningful and lasting relationships with people. Sometimes you get to know the whole family, which I think is just lovely!
What is surprising about your work?: That my hands will be dirty! Because I work with diamonds and pearls and the end result is a beautiful piece of jewellery, people don’t realise the labour that goes into each design. It’s actually not a very glamorous job, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Why do your customers choose handmade?: More than ever, people are looking for personal pieces. They know where it comes from and who made it. My customers appreciate the time that goes into a piece and are not interested in fast fashion. They are investing in timeless jewellery that will last forever.

Rachel Swan is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2004