Back in 2018, I spent a week at Shetland Jewellery for work experience. I applied through school and was so excited to try out a creative role. When I got accepted, I was over the moon!
On the first day, I was nervous but excited. My now boss, Sophie, kindly drove me to and from Lerwick each day to save my parents the long trip. I still remember how anxious I felt on that first drive to the workshop! Everyone there was so friendly and welcoming. My bench overlooked the beautiful Hellister Loch. I’m still a bit jealous of my coworker who sits there now LOL!
Throughout the week, I was guided by one staff member who showed me how to safely use the machines, prepare materials, and polish silver jewellery. I didn’t get to work with enamel myself, but watching others do it was mesmerising.
At the end of the week, I got to design and make my own piece to take home. I chose a Celtic knot work star design, featuring two intertwined stars. After sketching it out, I cut the shapes by hand, had holes drilled, and added engraved detail before soldering and polishing the final piece. The result was a beautiful knot work star necklet.
In February 2024, six years later, I started working as a full-time employee at Shetland Jewellery. It had been my dream job ever since my work experience in 2018. I still have my star necklet to this day, it hangs on my bench light and reminds me of how proud 16 year old me was. I bragged to my friends about it a lot when I returned to school the next week!
Now, I will be redesigning that original piece as a potential stock item for the showroom. 2018 Emma would be buzzing!
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