Introducing Kathleen

Can you believe it’s been over a year since we launched the Sheila Fleet Jewellery blog? In that time we’ve gone behind the scenes, explored Sheila’s inspiration and even discussed  our top tips for keeping your jewellery looking its best.

We’re now absolutely delighted to welcome a new voice – but familiar face – to the blog; Sheila’s niece, Kathleen Hogarth.

You may recognise Kathleen from our ‘On the Road’ series of posts that charted our adventures in Germany. Kathleen’s translation skills have famously kept us right when showcasing our jewellery abroad!

As part of the family, Kathleen has Orkney – and a love of jewellery – very much in her blood; as she explains:

“Although I’ve spent time living and working in other parts of Scotland, and Germany, Orkney is home.”

“Years ago after studying history, I would help Sheila write the insert cards for the collections inspired by Orkney’s famous archaeology.”

“Growing up, I remember Sheila would come round with her designs to see my mum, her older sister, for a cup of tea. It was always exciting, Sheila was always full of energy and ideas for new projects…some things never change!”

Today, Kathleen joins the Sheila Fleet Jewellery team to help us with writing for our brochures, our blog and to contribute to a very special project indeed; the redevelopment of the church adjacent to our workshop. Here’s Kathleen to tell you more:

“The church is quite an amazing project. There’s a chance here to offer something really special to visitors, including tours, refreshments and exhibitions.

“Orkney has a wonderful tradition of welcoming visitors and this will be a unique space in which to enjoy Sheila’s jewellery and then relax and savour some Orkney baking.   It’s going to be fun!”

Be sure to stay tuned for more from Kathleen. Before we go, we had to ask the all-important question, what’s your favourite piece of jewellery and why?

“That’s a difficult question!  I really like the Snowdrop collection – the Snowdrop is one of my favorite flowers and the jewellery is really beautiful. But I’m very fond of some of Sheila’s early collections and the ones inspired by history and archaeology, like the Birsay disc, and I’m rarely seen without my Mine Howe earrings!”