Forager

The Forager brooch is a quiet tribute to the late-autumn hedgerow, when the hips turn red and the air smells of woodsmoke and moss. It lives within the Dappledark collection, for those who feel at home in the undergrowth.

Inspired by the dog-roses rambling in our garden, this brooch nods to the plant’s tangled lore. Once believed to ward off spirits and soothe nightmares, the dog-rose was often hung above cradles or stitched into charms. Its bright red hips, rich in vitamin C, were gathered during wartime to make syrup for children, though long before that they were steeped in healing and magic. Some tales say the hips were carried for protection on journeys; others claim they symbolise the heart’s quiet endurance, blooming even as the year fades.

This piece is entirely handwrought in sterling silver. The rosehip is hollow-formed, and every leaf vein has been individually soldered before the leaves were shaped using traditional repousse techniques. The wire stems are bound and twisted like something gathered on a long walk and carried home in a coat pocket.

The brooch features a double pin design for extra security, also made from sterling silver.

Truly one-of-a-kind. As all wild things are.

Please note: due to the handmade nature of this piece, slight imperfections and tool marks are part of its story.

Handmade from start to finish in my studio in South Shropshire, England - please allow up to 28 days for delivery, or you can collect from The Artists Gallery, Ludlow.

Marked with my makers mark (LJ) and fully hallmarked at the Edinburgh Assay Office.

All materials used: Recycled 925 sterling silver.