The Children of Lir—A Tale Reimagined in Timeless Jewellery.
- Ghetto Smurf
- Jul 30
- 4 min read
From Legend to Legacy: The Children of Lir Collection by Jenti Forest Jewellery
Ireland is a land steeped in ancient, magical, and deeply emotional stories. And none is quite as moving as the tale of the Children of Lir. This legendary myth has inspired poetry, song, and now, a unique and limited collection of jewellery pieces by Jenti Forest Jewellery.
Launching this August at the Fota House Showcase Exhibition, the Children of Lir collection captures the symbolism, sorrow, and enduring spirit of this Celtic tale through precious metals and stones. Every piece tells a part of the story, each curve, feather, and sparkle representing a chapter in a myth that has echoed through time.
The Exhibition at Fota House
Join us for a truly special unveiling of the Children of Lir jewellery collection at Fota House. The opening night of the Showcase Exhibition is on Friday, 1st August, at 6 pm, where you can experience these one-of-a-kind creations up close. The exhibition will remain open daily throughout August, from 11 am to 4 pm, with the exhibition also featuring other makers and artists from Cork Craft and Design
This is more than a display, it is a merging of Irish heritage and artisanal craft, a tribute to mythology immortalised in metal and gem.
The Story That Inspired It All
The Children of Lir is one of Ireland’s most poignant myths. It tells the tragic tale of four siblings, Fionnuala, Aodh, Fiachra, and Conn, who were transformed into swans by their jealous stepmother and condemned to wander the lakes and seas of Ireland for 900 years.
This narrative of sorrow, resilience, and eventual peace is rich with imagery of swans, water, feathers, and time itself, all of which inspired my designs.
Behind the Design: Symbolism in Every Detail
Each handcrafted piece in the Children of Lir collection is designed to reflect a core element of the story:
Swan Motifs: Graceful and elegant, the swan is a symbol of transformation and spiritual endurance. My pendants and earrings use stylised wing forms to honour this sacred bird.
Waves and Water: The siblings’ exile took them across stormy seas and lonely lakes. Rings in the collection feature flowing patterns that mirror the movement of water.
Stones: Several designs incorporate gemstones, representing the nine centuries of the swans’ journey across the water.
Each piece is lovingly made using ethically sourced materials, finished with techniques that ensure no two are ever exactly alike, just like the story that inspired them.
A Piece of Irish Mythology You Can Hold
Jenti Forest Jewellery believes in storytelling through design. This collection is not only wearable art, it is a personal connection to heritage. For those who feel a deep tie to Ireland, to myth, or simply to beauty with meaning, these pieces are a way to carry a story with you.
Whether you choose a necklace, bracelet, ring, or set, you are wearing a symbol of resilience, transformation, and familial love.
Limited in number and rich in meaning, these treasures will be available to view and reserve at the Fota House exhibition.
Join Us at Fota House This August
Come and witness the unveiling of the Children of Lir collection at the Fota House Showcase Exhibition, opening Friday, 1st August, at 6 pm. The exhibition will run daily from 11 am to 4 pm throughout August, offering a rare opportunity to see these myth-inspired creations in person.
I invite lovers of storytelling, art, and all things beautifully Irish to join me.
And while you’re visiting, don’t forget to explore my popular August Birthstones collection featuring peridots, gems believed to ward off negative emotions and bring peace and happiness to their wearer. Additionally, peridots are said to enhance confidence and assertiveness, motivating personal growth and change.
The Story of The Children of Lir
In a time when gods and humans shared the earth, Lir, a noble chieftain of the Tuatha Dé Danann, had four beloved children: Fionnuala, Aodh, Fiachra, and Conn. After the tragic death of their mother, Lir married Aoife, who grew envious of the deep bond between Lir and his children.
Consumed by jealousy, Aoife cast a terrible spell, turning ,the children into swans doomed to wander the waters of Ireland for 900 years. For three centuries they lived on Lough Derravaragh, another three on the Sea of Moyle, and the final three on the Atlantic near Inishglora.
Their sorrowful songs were said to soften the hardest hearts. As time passed, kings fell, new beliefs spread, and Ireland changed. One day, a Christian monk named Caomhóg heard their sorrowful cries and blessed them. The spell finally broke, but they aged instantly, frail and mortal. With his blessing, they were baptised and passed into peaceful rest.
The Children of Lir became a symbol of transformation, eternal love, and the endurance of the human spirit. Their memory lives on in stories, sculptures, and now, in jewellery.
FAQs
1. What is the inspiration behind the Children of Lir jewellery collection?
The collection is inspired by the ancient Irish myth of the Children of Lir, blending storytelling and craftsmanship into symbolic, handcrafted pieces.
2. Where can I view the Children of Lir collection?
The collection will be on display at the Showcase Exhibition in Fota House, starting on Friday, 1st August 2025, at 6 pm, and open daily from 11 am to 4 pm for the rest of August.
3. Are the pieces one-of-a-kind?
Yes, each item is unique and handmade, designed to reflect specific symbols and elements from the myth.
4. Can I purchase the pieces at the exhibition?
Yes, select pieces will be available for reservation and purchase during the exhibition.
5. Is this collection part of a larger series of mythology-inspired jewellery?
Yes, Jenti Forest Jewellery frequently draws from Irish myths and folklore to create meaningful and timeless collections.
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