Our latest 'Introducing Orkney's Makers' feature focuses on Marion Miller Jewellery, a talented Stronsay-based jewellery designer. We spoke with Marion about her business and how she's inspired by her sea and shore surrounding her home island.
Where did the idea for the business come from, and how did you get things started?
I originally studied jewellery design in London in the mid-1990s. Then, after taking a career break, I eventually found my way back to the jewellery bench in 2013. In the years in between, I had been doing a variety of things, from working as a Commis Chef to becoming a pony trekking leader in the Scottish Highlands.
Living on an island also played an important part in shaping my creative journey, providing a constant source of inspiration through the landscape, coastline, changing light, and connection to nature. I wanted to draw on the character and beauty of my surroundings and allow these influences to find their way into my work, creating jewellery with a sense of place and a story of its own.
How would you describe your jewellery collections?
I create a collection of handmade contemporary jewellery inspired by the ever-changing beauty of Orkney’s sea and shore. Working predominantly in silver, I incorporate precious and semi-precious gemstones to bring colour, character and individuality to my designs.
My enamelled range of earrings and pendants captures the vibrant colours and changing moods of the North Sea, from its calm, shimmering blues to the dramatic colours of wild and stormy weather.
I also undertake commissions and particularly love creating unique, personal pieces that hold special meaning and sentimental value for the wearer.
Rings are my passion and speciality, with my Wave Ring collection becoming my signature range. First created in the late 1990s, these designs continue to be at the heart of my work, inspired by the movement and ever-changing nature of the sea that surrounds Orkney.
You've mentioned how Orkney inspires your work, how important is it for you to use all the elements of island life to help shape your pieces?
My inspiration comes from my deep connection to Orkney, the North Sea and the natural environment. The rugged coastline, dramatic skies, changing tides and shifting light provide a constant source of creativity.
I am inspired by the contrasts of the landscape — the wildness of the sea, the stillness of the islands and the ever-changing elements. Orkney's heritage, maritime history and strong sense of identity also influence my perspective.
Ultimately, Orkney and the North Sea are more than a backdrop; they are at the heart of my creative identity, providing a lasting connection to place, nature and the elements.
What are your future plans for the business?
I want to continue building on the success of my business, with a particular focus on expanding my collection of rings. The positive response to my latest collection of Selkie rings has been really encouraging, and I see this as an exciting direction to develop further over the coming year.
It is equally important to me to maintain the individuality that sits at the heart of my business. I want to continue creating jewellery with character, personality and a strong sense of identity, where each piece feels considered and has its own unique qualities. The handmade and one-of-a-kind nature of my work is something I value greatly and want to preserve as the business grows.
I also want to keep pushing my own creative boundaries. I have a naturally curious mind and enjoy exploring new techniques, experimenting with materials and developing new ideas. Learning and evolving are important parts of my practice, and I want to make sure there is always room for experimentation alongside the development of more established collections.
Ultimately, my aim is to grow the business in a way that feels true to its identity: building on what is working, developing new opportunities and continuing to make distinctive, individual jewellery that reflects my approach to creativity and craftsmanship.
Christmas is coming - what’s your favourite thing about the festive season in Orkney?
Christmas is a very busy time for all of Orkney's makers, from the food and drink producers to jewellery makers like myself, and all other Creative Orkney members. But it's also such a special time of year so it's important to take a step back and enjoy the atmosphere around the islands.
Coming into Kirkwall from Stronsay at Christmas is always such great fun, seeing all the shop displays and the town's Christmas lights. But the real highlight is always a wander around the William Shearers Christmas Shop. It's like taking a trip back in time with all the old furniture and displays, and traditional gifts on offer. It's a real treasure trove and always gets us into the festive spirit.
If you could have one other Orkney product for Christmas, what would it be?
That is a very hard question! There are so many talented makers here, but I have been admiring Donna Eunson's sea-inspired glass art for some time now. Her work takes its inspiration from the sea too, and I'm drawn to the shapes and colours she creates. I would pick one of her scuptural bowls in green and turquoise for the perfect Christmas gift.
Find out more about the Marion Miller Jewellery and visit the official website to order online.