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Showcase Spotlight: Loinnir Jewellery
The brand recently came first in the jewellery category of Irish Country Magazine's Irish Made Awards.
Tell us about your brand and products.
Named after the Irish word for ‘shimmering light,’ Loinnir is modern, Irish-inspired jewellery handcrafted in Ireland in Co. Kildare. Loinnir draws inspiration from Ireland’s rich heritage - from the Giant’s Causeway to ancient artefacts like the Torc. Passionate about blending tradition with the present and embracing sustainability whenever possible, each collection includes a story card, deepening the connection to Irish heritage and allowing customers to carry a piece of Ireland with them wherever they go.
Tell us a bit about how you run your business.
I make each Loinnir collection by hand in Co. Kildare, Ireland, merging traditional influences with modern techniques. I combine lost wax handcarving, electro-etching and cutting-edge 3D CAD design. I believe that this fusion of heritage and innovation results in jewellery that feels both timeless and modern.
Every detail of my business has been considered, from my eco-friendly packaging made from recycled and FSC certified materials to the responsibly-sourced cotton ribbons on my bags. The launch of my new lab-grown diamond engagement ring collection further reflects my commitment to ethical and sustainable practices and offers a beautiful alternative to mined diamonds.
I believe that what sets my jewellery brand apart from others is my personal passion. Ireland is experiencing a cultural revival and I aim to be part of that movement. I am passionate about creating jewellery that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply meaningful.
What do you like most about what you do?
What I love most about what I do is the opportunity to tell Ireland’s story through contemporary design. I’ve always known I would follow a path that played to my strengths in art and design, and founding Loinnir Jewellery in 2015 allowed me to create pieces that embody Ireland’s spirit in a modern, meaningful way. My journey with dyslexia meant that, being exempt from Irish at an early age, I sometimes felt disconnected from my cultural roots. However, during my time at NCAD, I found myself reflecting on family visits to places like the Hill of Tara and the National Museum - experiences that rekindled my fascination with Ireland’s heritage and artistry. Through Loinnir, I’ve been able to reconnect with that heritage in a deeply personal way, researching our history and transforming it into wearable art that celebrates both where we’ve come from and who we are today.
I love merging traditional Irish elements with the vibrancy of modern, multicultural Ireland - a blend that, to me, reflects our evolving identity as a nation. As Maya Angelou said: “I have great respect for the past. If you don't know where you've come from, you don't know where you're going.” That quote resonates with me and inspires how I design: always mindful of the past, but focused on creating for the present and future. Ultimately, what I cherish most is knowing that every Loinnir piece carries a story. Whether it’s worn by someone of Irish descent, someone living abroad, or someone who has simply fallen in love with Ireland, they can hold a meaningful piece of modern Ireland - one they can be proud to wear wherever life takes them.
Where do you get your inspiration?
I am inspired by Ireland’s rich heritage, landscape and cultural symbolism. My collections are influenced by iconic Irish landmarks and artefacts including the Giant’s Causeway, the Claddagh ring, and the ancient Torc neck collars to be found in Ireland's museums.
Is this your first time exhibiting at Showcase Ireland? If not, what advice would you give to first time exhibitors?
It is not - I exhibited last year with the Kildare Local Enterprise Office. My advice to first-time exhibitors at Showcase Ireland would be to go in prepared but open-minded. It’s such an exciting opportunity to share your work and connect with retailers, buyers, and fellow makers who genuinely appreciate Irish creativity. Before the show, make sure your branding, pricing and story are clear - know what makes your collection unique and be confident in communicating that. Buyers love to hear the story behind your work, so take the time to craft a narrative that feels authentic to you and your brand.
Presentation is key. Think carefully about how your stand reflects your identity. Keep it cohesive but welcoming. Make sure you have marketing materials ready (catalogues, price lists, business cards, or even QR codes) so people can easily follow up after the show. During the event, don’t be afraid to start conversations. Networking is one of the most valuable parts of Showcase - you’ll meet people who might not buy immediately but could become long-term collaborators or supporters. And finally, enjoy the experience. The atmosphere at Showcase is incredibly inspiring and supportive. It’s a chance to learn, grow, and be part of Ireland’s thriving design community. Even if you feel nervous at first, remember that everyone there started somewhere, and you never know what opportunities one genuine conversation might lead to.
Where is your jewellery currently stocked?
I'm currently stocked by the National Museum of Ireland Collins Barracks,. Standún, Blarney Woollen Mills, EPIC, Gather, McCarthy's Jewellery Shop, Unbound and was also previously stocked in the Design Ireland store in Dublin Airport from 2021 to 2024.
Is sustainability an important aspect of your business?
Every piece in my collection is handmade in my Co. Kildare studio, and I work closely with a trusted Dublin-based caster to source my silver and gold. Keeping production local not only supports Irish craftsmanship and the wider economy, but it also helps minimise our carbon footprint by reducing transportation emissions. I recycle leftover sterling silver from previous castings within each collection, ensuring that materials are used as efficiently and responsibly as possible. Many of my designs feature Keshi pearls, a naturally occurring by-product of pearl farming. Their organic, irregular shapes not only reduce waste but also add a unique natural beauty to my jewellery. They’re a more sustainable alternative to traditionally cultivated pearls, as they form without intensive intervention or environmental disruption.
A recent milestone for me has been the launch of my lab-grown diamond engagement ring collection - a step forward in offering an ethical and environmentally-conscious alternative to mined diamonds. I source my chains from a sustainable jewellery manufacturer certified by the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) and the Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI), ensuring high standards for ethical sourcing, labour rights, and environmental protection.
Beyond the jewellery itself, I’m committed to ensuring that every part of the customer experience reflects these values. All of my packaging is made from recycled and FSC-certified materials and finished with responsibly-sourced natural cotton ribbons. While I don’t yet have a formal sustainability or ESG team, it’s something I oversee personally and take great pride in. I don’t claim to be perfect, but I believe in progress - in learning, improving and doing what I can to reduce environmental impact while supporting local craftsmanship.
What's new for Showcase 2026?
Loinnir Jewellery is embarking on an exciting new direction by entering the bridal market. Whether worn by someone of Irish heritage, someone living abroad, or someone who has simply fallen in love with Ireland, our pieces allow them to carry a meaningful connection to Ireland—a connection they can proudly wear as they walk down the aisle on their special day. In addition to this new bridal focus, we are also expanding our current collections with fresh additions. Imagine a statement signet ring with a unique Irish coin twist—timeless, meaningful, and unmistakably Loinnir.
