Fermanagh goldsmith presents the Princess Royal with stunning hand-engraved brooch

Laura Breen, a Fermanagh native and a former student of Devenish College, is a goldsmith working as Cameron and Breen with her business partner.

Her workplace is based in Randlestown, near Antrim Castle and gardens, and it was the castle that served as an inspiration for the fine jewellery presented to the Princess Royal.

The Ancient Treasure brooch

Laura said: " We were privileged to have our ‘Ancient Treasure’ brooch presented to Her Royal Highness on behalf of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.

"The brooch was designed and hand-crafted in our studio in Randalstown, neighbouring Antrim Castle walls.

"All of our jewellery celebrates the unique outcome achieved by using traditional goldsmithing techniques such as hand-carving, hand-engraving and stone-setting."

Describing the design of the brooch, Laura said: "When designing this brooch, we gathered inspiration from the impressive presence of Antrim Castle Tower, replicating the battlement brickwork with three-dimensional layers of hand-engraved gold and silver metals.

"The brooch is hand-engraved, front and back, with patterns inspired by early Celtic stone carving.

"This was influenced by our interest in local mythology, ancient culture, and heritage. Every element of the brooch is made with careful consideration.

"We chose gemstones inspired by the summer colour palette of Antrim Castle's award-winning gardens.

"A beautifully deep-red cushion-cut garnet sits amongst smaller garnets and rubies, all of which are held securely in place with recycled yellow gold and sterling silver.

"The deep colours of the stones give the brooch a contemporary and luxurious feel, but remain reminiscent of the ancient relics they are inspired by.

"The brooch, which was designed last year, was exhibited last year in the first curated exhibition by the Association of Contemporary Jewellers NI in Craft NI Gallery, Belfast," she added.