Orkney’s Timeless Crafts…..
by Bernie Bell - 10:23 on 28 November 2025
Orkney’s Timeless Crafts…..
I’ll quote from the ‘Creative Orkney’ publicity….
“From Broch to Brooches: Tracing Orkney’s Timeless Craft
We’re excited to invite you to a stunning new exhibition by the Creative Orkney Jewellery Members, celebrating the evolution of Orkney’s jewellery-making traditions — from ancient inspiration to contemporary design.
Explore beautifully crafted pieces that reflect our islands’ heritage, creativity, and world-renowned craftsmanship — all in the historic setting of the Orkney Museum.
Orkney Museum, Broad Street, Kirkwall, KW15 1DH
15 November – 24 December
Open Monday–Saturday, 10:30–17:00 (Closed 12:30–13:30)
Free admission
Come along, discover Orkney’s timeless artistry, and support our local makers and businesses.“
How could we resist?
Where to begin? As someone in ‘Alice’ advised …I’ll begin at the beginning, go on to the end, then stop.
This is a selection of what particularly caught my attention – there is more - in fact, so much in one room, it’s sensory overload! Not just pretty jewellery, but the history of some of Orkney’s Makers through the years, and something of the methods used to produce what they make.
It really is best to go and see for yourself.
Just before going into the main exhibition room there’s an explanation of the concept behind the exhibition….
And a selection of examples of Orkney jewellery from the distant past…….
The cross found in an alcove in St. Magnus Cathedral is intriguing and….a replica can be bought in the shop!.....
Walking clock-wise round the room, I’ll begin with early Ola Gorie….
The Ortak display includes an example of how times have changed….
Sheila Fleet jewellery….in the making…..
The original is in the Pictish Gallery!
Aurora…Stones…Trees….Silver reflections…
Alison Moore…….inspiration…...fulfilment…..
A delicate creation by Marion Miller……
There are a lot of pieces in the central cabinets, including Karen Duncan’s jewellery based on a Viking hoard….
At the end of the central case there’s a display and information about the ‘lost wax process’……
Like I said – not just pretty jewellery – jewellery history.
If that’s put you in the mood for looking at beautiful things, the Museum also has a ‘Contemporary Orkney Creatives’ exhibition….
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