A lost treasure

A new year in the Lost Forest studio marks a new beginning in my business. All will be revealed in another few months! For now, I have a little treat in the form of a special edition piece in the Lost Forest collection; a magical woodland talisman- 'My Little World'.

I cast this piece from an authentic shard of quartz crystal, and created a pine resin replica that holds treasures from the enchanted woodlands of the Dublin mountains. Real tendrils of lichen still cling to a delicate pine branch, gathered from the forest floor after an autumn storm. The sculptural meandering forms of the lichen are showcased within the crystal clear resin. When you gaze at the crystal, you discover a new hidden detail every time, creating an endless sense of intrigue. 24k gold leaf has been hand gilded sporadically along the facets to add a touch of sparkle to this bewitching crystal. 

I created the crystal as a talisman you can carry with you wherever you may be. Place it in your hand, gaze into it, and feel like you are connecting with the natural world; a world not always accessible to everyone. Instantly, you will feel a sense of calm and inner peace, and ponder over the good things that life has to offer. The crystal can also sit upon your desk and offer a spark of inspiration to your day. Only one has been made and it is exclusively available here. 

Head for the hills of heather

September always marks the heather season for me, and I'm usually found high in the mountains searching amongst the beautiful purple haze to find the best sprigs for my botanical collection. Bell heather is my favourite type due to its rich and vibrant colour and dainty bell-shaped blooms. 

Heather thrives in dry acidic soils, and grows in profusion on moorlands and mountain sides. Over the centuries it has been used in numerous ways; from bedding, brooms, basketry to roof thatching. It's aromatic buds were also used to flavour beer and provide a sweet floral aroma to honey. For me, it is a much loved staple of my collection and is used in two core pieces; My Wild Irish Heart necklace and earrings. Both pieces capture the wild and natural beauty of the Irish landscape at this magical time of the year, and preserve the rich eternal charm of the heather forever. 

Forest Foraging

Today marked a much needed supply run to the mountains. Mottlegill mushrooms, moss and woodland ferns were top of the list, and I found a bountiful selection of them within the depths of the forest. The recent rain showers had enticed a profusion of botanicals to emerge through the undergrowth and reveal their delights. 

I also managed to stumble upon some floral treats in the form of buttercups (Ranunculus bulbosus), Eyebright (Euphrasia) and the rambling Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum). It was a job well done and allowed me to enrich my botanical collections once more for some brand new projects on the horizon.