Brought to you by Ivy’s Attic Jewellery. 

They say fortune favours the brave.

But when Sean Layton, back in his family home for the first time in years due to the pandemic, purchased a box of vintage jewellery online back in 2020, he had no idea that his lockdown whim would be the starting point for a real gem of a business.

“When the jewellery arrived it was so impressive that I decided to set up an Instagram page and started to post pictures of the pieces against the backdrop of the West Cork countryside. Unexpectedly, the jewellery began to sell and the rest is history,” he told Yay Cork.

Ivy’s Attic Jewellery was born (the name is inspired by Sean’s beloved family pet, a border collie called Ivy, who sadly passed away earlier this year aged 16).

Just one year in, Sean’s carefully curated collection has a steady stream of fans seeking high-quality jewellery, sourced from select suppliers in Ireland and abroad, that is both affordable and sustainable.

Visit Cork’s Marina Market at the weekend and you’ll spot the bright purple Ivy’s Attic pop-up shop, usually surrounded by a gaggle of vintage fans perusing the beautiful boxes of baubles, on the hunt for new pieces and gifts for mates.

This year, Sean unveiled the Ivy’s Attic Touch of Gold collection; classic, new vintage-inspired jewellery designed for fans to pair with their vintage treasures, broadening the appeal of the brand.

The affordable collection consists of 18-carat gold plated, gold vermeil and 9-carat gold pieces. Earrings start at €25 with delicate rings, bracelets and chains from a pocket-friendly €19.

“Simple, timeless pieces are so popular right now, as well as necklace-layering and ring-stacking, so I really wanted to have a strong offering in these areas,” says Sean.

A big believer in supporting local, Sean worked with Cork-based photographer, Aleksandra Schmidt and models, Evelyn Harrington and Eileen Cardona, on a recent campaign to showcase the Touch of Gold summer collection.

“This is one of the most rewarding parts – after endless hours of planning a collection – seeing it come to life in front of the camera. Cork is full of creative talent and it is a great place to start a small business,” he said.

If you can’t make the Market, the online store is open 24/7 and every piece from the Touch of Gold collection is delivered in an Ivy’s Attic Jewellery FSC®-certified Eco jewellery box.

So what’s next for Ivy’s Attic Jewellery? 

“I am working on a sterling silver collection, in a similar style to Touch of Gold,” Sean reveals.

“I have been focused on gold for the past few months, but as my friend recently reminded me, Irish people LOVE silver so I think there is potential there. I also want to grow our vintage jewellery offering, with a focus on vintage silver rings and earrings.”

You can browse the latest pieces on ivysatticjewellery.com or visit the pop-up shop at The Marina Market in Ballintemple, Cork (Friday to Sunday, 11am to 7pm). For more information email ivysatticjewellery@gmail.com. Follow Ivy’s Attic on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates.