How it all began
Discover the story behind the launch of Indigo Berry ... nearly 25 years after making my first ear-ring!
top of page
ABOUT INDIGO BERRY: Meet the Maker
Hi there!
My name is Michelle Seviour, the creative force behind Indigo Berry.
I live and work in the Isle of Skye, in the Scottish Highlands. This exceptionally beautiful place has been my home for most of my life.
hello
island home
My island home
I design and create all Indigo Berry jewellery from home on the island. My cottage overlooks Loch Harport, with the Cuillins in the distance. I share it with my partner and two cats (both are named after gemstones - Jasper and Beryl)
how it all began
On Being a Coward
I have always been creative, but I discovered jewellery-making because I was too much of a coward to get my ears pierced, and it was really difficult back then to get decent clip-on ear-rings.... so I decided to make my own.
Some time later...
Nearly 25 years after making that first set of ear-rings , Indigo Berry was launched. And, yes , I did eventually pluck up the courage to get my ears pierced!
Inspirations
Drawing on the past and present:
Indigo Berry Inspirations
Inspired by Nature
From the majestic Cuillins to the rugged coastline, the volcanic derived Trotternish Ridge, to the wild flowers on the croft - the natural world around me is a constant source of inspiration. A creative idea might start simply with a glance out of the window at the changing colours in the loch.
Walks on the shore and Woodland Fairies
As well as the natural landscape, the Isle of Skye is also famous for its connection with the fairie folk and there is often a sprinkle of fairy dust to my designs. Indigo Berry jewellery speaks of wild flowers, rockpool explorations, the wind in your hair, the waves on the shore and the whisper of fairies in the heather.
Artistic Inspirations
A Passion for Art
My designs are also influenced by my Art Historical background, and in particular my love of the Pre-Raphaelite painters.
Sometime back in the Dark Ages, I studied Art History at Leeds University and enjoyed a career in museums and art galleries. My designs might reference a memory of the stained glass colours and mediaeval costumes in Pre-Raphaelite paintings.
Materials
Gems to buttons:
My Materials
Gemstones and Fossils
I am passionate about gemstones and geology and I use a variety of ethically sourced genuine gemstones and fossils in my work. Who can resist the unique colours and textures created by mother-nature?
Thanks to Grandma
As well as natural materials, I often up-cycle vintage buttons and belt buckles from my grandmother’s button box. Many date from the heyday of the Birmingham button industry. When I am not jewellery making, I am researching my family history, and I love that grandma's buttons offer a link to the past.
Handcrafted Silver
Since 2007 I have been working with silver clay. I completed a couple of workshops and have been totally hooked on this exciting medium ever since!
I love exploring the infinite possibilities of texturing, shaping, moulding the clay and marvel that it turns into sterling silver when its fired!
Each of my handcrafted silver pieces are hallmarked at Edinburgh Assay Office.
bottom of page