Meet the maker: Arianwen Jewellery

We’re so excited to introduce one of our amazing members from our Welsh Makers Community in this Meet the Maker series. Meet Rhiannon, the maker behind Arianwen Jewellery. Proudly creating her sentimental, Welsh inspired jewellery.

At Byw, we love sharing the stories behind the Welsh gifts and locally made products you’ll find on our site. By shopping small and supporting Welsh makers like Rhiannon, you’re helping them keep doing what they love and we couldn’t be happier about it!

We caught up with Rhiannon to hear all about their journey and what inspires their work.

Can you tell us a little about yourself and your journey so far?

Hello! I’m Rhiannon, the maker behind Arianwen Jewellery and a mum of two. Arianwen Jewellery is named after my daughter whose Welsh name means “white silver”. I started the business less than two years ago during maternity leave with her, and it’s grown alongside my family. What began as a creative outlet during a difficult time has become a way to create deeply meaningful pieces that mark life’s most important moments. 

What sparked the idea for Arianwen Jewellery?

I wanted jewellery that felt sentimental rather than trend-led with pieces that hold meaning, mark milestones, celebrate Welsh identity, and last. I couldn’t find what I was looking for, so I decided to make it myself.

Which part of running the business brings you the most joy?

Hearing the stories behind why someone has chosen a piece. Knowing something I’ve made will be worn to mark a birth, a new chapter, or a memory never gets old.

Do you have a favourite piece or one with a special story?

My favourite pieces are always the milestone keepsakes that are tied to big life moments like a wedding or a new baby. They’re the most emotional to make and I love that I can be part of that by handcrafting something that will be treasured for years to come. 

When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your time?

Being a mum to two young children you can usually find me calming a toddler meltdown, supplying endless snacks to my 4 year old, working as a Web Developer and drinking lots of coffee. My favourite days are spent outdoors with my family, preferably on a Welsh beach.

What exciting projects or products are coming next?

I’m working on a new mixed metals collection that involves adding 24k gold to fine silver using an ancient technique called Keum Boo which involves bonding gold leaf to the silver using heat and pressure - it’s incredibly fiddly but 100% worth it!

What do you hope people feel when they wear your jewellery?

Connected, comforted and reminded of the moment or person the jewellery represents.