Elevate Your Christmas Sparkle

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Looking for sparkling Christmas gifts? Hartmanns, Cobwebs and Bláithín Ennis offer timeless treasures for every jewellery lover.

For dazzling jewellery gifts and sparking diamonds: Hartmanns

A treasure trove and Galway institution, for over 70 years Hartmanns has excelled at showcasing expertly crafted timeless pieces alongside the latest modern buys.

"If buying a gift of jewellery for your loved one for Christmas you can never go wrong with the classics, diamonds and gold," advises Richard Hartmann, director of the iconic store. "Diamond stud earrings, pendants or line bracelets are always well received. Also, the classic gold Flexit bracelet by Fope is another winner for Christmas presents. These items never go out of fashion and have timeless style so are safe bets for gifts."

One of Richard's favourite parts of his job is helping couples pick an engagement ring. "It’s such a big milestone in peoples lives and we are so lucky that we get to play a small part in it," he says. "We have created a very special experience where we welcome our couples with a glass of champagne and a luxurious suite where they can relax and enjoy the experience in privacy. We pride ourselves in having the widest and best selection of engagement rings in the west of Ireland. We can confidently say that the quality of our rings is second to none and all our rings are designed and manufactured to last a lifetime. "

For unforgettable antique treasures: Cobwebs

For antique lovers, look no further than iconic Galway store Cobwebs. "In these days of sustainability,  antique jewellery has to be the ultimate gift choice," enthuses owner Phyllis MacNamara. "Apart from the exquisite styles and craftsmanship, there is a romance that comes with the history."

Her advice for shopping for antique jewellery? "Always go for the very best quality. A small quality piece will always hold it's value more than a large piece of inferior quality. "

"The perfect piece will reflect its own moment in time typifying the style in vogue at the period," she contitnues. "A signed piece in an original fitted case makes it even more desirable."

Phyllis' favourite part if her job is matching the right piece for each person. 

The joy that people can get from having a jewel that marks a particular moment in their lives, never ceases to give me enormous pleasure.

Right now, Mid century jewellery by well known makers such as Cartier, Van Clef and Arpels and Maubussion is selling well at the moment. "Fine examples of these jewellers in the 40s seem to be very much in fashion – gold bracelets from these period are highly desirable. "

And does Phyllis have any favourites of her own? "Of course it's constantly changing," she laughs. "But I recently bought a small Victorian ring with the most intense rubies. It is so perfect in every way. The colour is quite simply breathtaking. "

For cool Irish designs: Bláithín Ennis

A celebrated designer and household name in Irish jewellery, Bláithín Ennis is known for her expertly crafted, handmade pieces that blend timeless elegance with modern allure. Featured on the Oscars red carpet and at London Fashion Week her collections are the epitome of Irish creativity and craftsmanship.

“Buying Irish means so much more than buying just ‘a product’ - you are buying quality, uniqueness and above all, a story behind what you purchase.”

If you’re looking for a truly special gift this Christmas, Bláithín can't recommend handcrafted Irish products enough. “My favourite piece at the moment is probably the most difficult piece to make!" she laighs. "They are the Sweetlip stud earrings (€240) from my new luxury collection ‘Sea of Stars’ and are mini couture pieces.” Double sided and meticulously set by hand, encrusted with blue, citrine and aqua crystals, unwrapping these earrings are sure to make anyone's Christmas extra special.

For Bláithín, the joy of creating jewellery lies in its storytelling. “Aside from designing and making, wondering where my pieces end up is an intriguing part of my job,” she shares. “One of my favourite couture pieces is my Spinnaker Cone Collarette (€295). I distinctly remember spending many days and hours in my studio experimenting and forming the concept of this design. When I completed it, I loved how unique it was and felt it was a very special neckpiece. Fast forward to 2023 when it graced the red carpet at the Oscars in L.A on actress Kate Nic Chonaonaigh representing An Cailín Ciúin. Those moments are the cherry on top!”

Bláithín’s latest launch, Wild at Heart, is a celebration of love, independence, and freedom. “It's a new departure for me as it's my first 'all metal' collection and has been on the design table for some time. The collection is designed to celebrate women and uses the heart in a symbolic sense.”