A BRIEF HISTORY
For over three decades, Deirdre O’Donnell has been a beacon of craftsmanship in Dublin's designer jewellery scene, passionately forging custom pieces that blend artistry with personal touch.
Trained in the time-honoured tradition of goldsmiths, Deirdre honed her skills under the disciplined eye of master craftsmen. Her educational journey in the art of jewellery making took her to The School of Jewellery in Birmingham, where her talent was twice honoured with the 'Emma Jessie Phipps Scholarship' in both 1987 and 1988. She emerged with flying colours, holding a Higher National Diploma in Design and Goldsmith Skills, distinguished by her exceptional creativity and technical prowess.
Our jewellery in Dublin is not just a product but a narrative of Deirdre's experiences and inspirations.
The early '90s saw Deirdre establishing her first creative workshop in the cultural melting pot of Soho, London. Surrounded by a diverse and talented community of worldwide goldsmiths, she absorbed a wealth of knowledge and experience. This period was marked by numerous successful exhibitions and a sojourn to Paris, where she was enchanted by the elegance of French-style jewellery—a muse that continues to whisper in her designs.
Her creations, ranging from bespoke jewellery Dublin locals admire to the intricate designs sought after by an international clientele, celebrate the beauty of 18ct gold, platinum, and silver, adorned with both precious and semi-precious gemstones.
DUBLIN
In 1996, answering the call of her roots, Deirdre planted her studio and workshop in Dublin, joining the ranks of esteemed Dublin city jewellers. Yet, her quest for the unique keeps her journeying across London, Paris, the U.S.A., and Australia, where she not only meets with fellow artisans but also hand-selects the gemstones that give her custom jewellery Ireland's distinct sparkle.
Deirdre's expertise and art have been spotlighted in The Irish Times, Image Magazine, Social & Personal, Confetti, and across the airwaves on Virgin Media Television. Her work is not just an adornment but a statement, a piece of wearable art that tells a story.
Later Deirdre decided to persure her keen interest in education, starting The School of Jewellery Ireland in November 2011 to prevent the loss of technical skills in the jewellery industry.
In September 2023, TSOJI was handed into the capable hands of Goldsmith and Tutor, Paul Coyne. Deirdre continued to open The Jewellery Skills and Design Course designed to offer graduates all of the practical jewellery and goldsmith skills needed to develop a full-time career in the jewellery trade.
There are real job opportunities for graduates of the course, both in Ireland and abroad and many of the students are both employed and self-employed in the Jewellery trade as a direct result of graduation from the course. The courses are very highly regarded in the jewellery industry and the school is regularly contacted by employers looking for trade jewellery staff.
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