It’s that time of the year again! The nights grow long, the lights sparkle, and you’re pondering that perfect gift for a loved one (or perhaps a treat for yourself!). Jewellery remains unmatched in its power to convey meaning, to mark moments, and to be cherished for years to come. This year the spotlight truly shines on new beginnings, stories of myth and memory, and pieces crafted to last a lifetime.
If you’re drawn to jewellery that speaks of heritage and heart, look no further than renowned Irish designer Martina Hamilton, whose studio in Sligo has just unveiled a brand-new collection alongside signature designs that have stood the test of time. With pieces in hallmarked sterling silver and gold, handmade from recycled materials, Martina’s work is rooted in craftsmanship, nature and narrative.
Síoda
Launched in-store on 13th November, the Síoda Collection is Martina’s latest exploration of myth, memory and material. Síoda (the Irish word for silk) takes inspiration from a single thread of spun silk; and from the visit Martina made to a silk-making workshop near Shanghai where she discovered how one thread can stretch for up to a mile. At the same time, she was stirred by mythological threads of fate, binding mortals to gods and to ancestors.
In Martina’s words:
“The idea for it first came to mind last year… You learn remarkable things. Sometimes a single silk thread can reach up to a mile in length. I was also reminded how both in Irish mythology and in Oriental traditions, there are other threads that are eternal… Drawing upon the resilience and fluidity of raw silk, Síoda seeks to reach back, to encapsulate the mythology and heritage which has informed Ireland’s craftsmanship and inspired our jewellery makers across the millennia.”
In form, the collection features spindle-like shapes and torc-inspired formations reminiscent of Bronze Age style; bold yet elegant. Each design reflects Martina’s signature textured surfaces and organic lines that echo Ireland’s rugged coast. Pieces are handmade in Sligo from recycled silver and gold, hall-marked for authenticity and sustainability.
This collection is ideal for anyone who seeks jewellery that is meaningful, sculptural, sustainable and modern; a gift that will mark this Christmas for years ahead.
(Price range €56 – €198 in Sterling Silver, and €320 – €1,555 in 9ct Gold) Link to Jewellery: Síoda Collection | Handcrafted Irish Jewellery Inspired by Heritage and Myth – Martina Hamilton
Ériu Claddagh Ring
In the ever-inspiring Ériu collection, rooted in the mythological goddess of the same name who lent her name to the island of Ireland, Martina introduces the Ériu Claddagh Ring, offering a contemporary reinterpretation of a timeless symbol. The classic Claddagh, with its heart, crown and hands, is given new form here: clean lines, modern styling, and the organic, coastal textures of the Ériu aesthetic.
“Through the form of each piece in the Ériu collection, I am creating a reflection of the wearer, a coastline of sorts. With the Claddagh ring, I’ve aimed to fuse this concept with the ring’s original meaning, while elevating it with a more contemporary aesthetic.”
The Ériu Claddagh Ring is a profound gift: it speaks of love, loyalty and friendship; and does so with a modern Irish craftsmanship edge. Whether for a partner, a sibling or a lifelong friend, this ring marks a forever choice.
(Price range €133 – €1,594 depending on metal choice and ring size) Link to Jewellery: Claddagh – Martina Hamilton
Ériu
Perhaps you were introduced to the Ériu collection last Christmas. Jewellery inspired by the goddess Ériu and her embodiment of the land, honed into pendants, earrings and rings with etched surfaces that reference Ireland’s rugged coastline and ancient sovereignty symbols.
The collection continues to offer elegant, meaningful jewellery; perfect for someone wanting something more than just “pretty”. Think: a wearable myth, a piece of heritage, a subtle statement.
(Price range €65 – €150 in Sterling Silver, and €295 – €1,280 in 9ct Gold) Link to Jewellery: Ériu Collection | Handcrafted Irish Jewellery Inspired by Mythology – Martina Hamilton
Oyster Pearl
The Oyster Pearl Collection remains one of Martina’s most enduring designs: “a suite of classic pendants and earrings in hall-marked sterling silver and hall-marked 9 carat gold, set with beautiful freshwater cultured pearls.”
Martina reflects:
“What I have always loved about this collection is the simplicity of the contrasting curves and texture… set with a pearl, it gives a wonderful feeling of the transitional, like that of a moon shadowing across the atmosphere of a planet.”
In short: timeless, elegant, and perfect for someone who loves understated luxury.
(Price range €66 – €330 in Sterling Silver, and €270 – €900 in 9ct Gold) Link to Jewellery: Oyster Pearl Collection | Timeless Irish Jewellery with Pearls – Martina Hamilton
Bean Rí
The Bean Rí Collection celebrates feminine strength and elegance, inspired by Ireland’s warrior queens and the legacy of the Battle of Clontarf. Martina interpreted Bronze Age spearheads found in museum collections, transforming their raw power into jewellery charged with elegance: a celebration of passion, strength and heritage.
Ideal for someone who prefers jewellery with a story; one of momentum, heritage and quiet power.
(Price range €65 – €198 in Sterling Silver, and €345 – €675 in 9ct Gold) Link to Jewellery: Bean Rí Collection | “Woman King” Irish Jewellery by Martina Hamilton
Why choose Martina Hamilton this Christmas?
- Handmade in Sligo, Ireland by Martina and her team with decades of expertise.
- Each piece uses recycled silver or gold; selected with sustainability in mind
- Inspired by Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, mythological threads, landscape and legacy; these aren’t mere accessories, they’re wearable stories.
- Perfect for gift-givers who want soul, substance and style in one, covering a range of budgets.
This holiday season, gifting jewellery from Martina Hamilton is about more than a present; it’s about legacy, memory and connection. Whether you choose the freshly launched Síoda Collection to mark a new chapter, the Ériu Claddagh to honour love and loyalty, or a timeless piece from the Oyster Pearl or Bean Rí collections, you’re giving something that touches the heart.
Here’s to a Christmas filled with meaning, beauty and elegance.
Visit martinahamilton.ie to browse full collections, or book a bespoke appointment.
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