Martin Cameron’s childhood fascination with illustration and Laura Breen’s intrigue in archaeology and making, led them to cross paths whilst studying jewellery and silversmithing at Ulster University, Belfast, graduating in 2014. During this time Martin studied and crafted delicate silver wire sculptures inspired by the rugged Irish landscape. Laura explored large scale silver and enamel jewellery, playing with the juxtaposition of unpredictable organic life found in geometric manmade structures.

After university Martin undertook further years of education and training courses at the Goldsmiths’ Centre, whilst working to commission from his studio in County Antrim. Laura backpacked through Australia, New Zealand, Fuji, Japan, and Southeast Asia drawing creativity from new people and ways of life, igniting a passion for her own country’s unique culture and history. In 2018 their paths crossed once more and in conversation Cameron and Breen became a contemporary goldsmithing collaboration, combining ideas, skills, and techniques.

They have since won awards from the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths’ and in 2021 presented their ‘Ancient Treasure’ brooch to Princess Anne, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal. Cameron and Breen have exhibited with notable galleries including ‘Tales of the Subconscious’ with Gill Wing and ‘Ring’ with Diana Porter.

Hordes of gold jewellery found in museums influence the forms and materials in Cameron and Breen’s Adorn Collection. Yellow gold is cast from wax that has been carved and manipulated by hand. Ancient stone carvings adorned with rhymical pattern and curious figures inspire the unique hand engraved motifs.

Rock crystals set over engraved scenes are used as a ‘looking glass’ into the jewellery. When worn the view inside the rock crystal blinks in and out of view enhancing the curiosity of each piece. Other gemstones including earthy emeralds and fiery mandarin garnets are held in heavy beaten gold.

A combination of Laura’s self-taught wax carving skills and Martin’s professional stone setting talents, leads each piece of jewellery to pass through each of their hands several times before it is finished, creating an intriguing and beguiling collection of jewellery, which holds a unique amalgamation of ideas and skills to adorn the body.