All that glitters: Meet jewellery designer Nigel O’Reilly

Remember the name: Mayo-based goldsmith Nigel O’Reilly is set to compete with top luxury houses around the world. Annmarie O’Connor gets up close and personal with his dazzling creations.

Dazzled. That’s how I feel sitting with goldsmith Nigel O’Reilly and his collection of signature gemstone rings. I’m trying on a showpiece entitled Dante’s Zircon, which boasts 344 coloured diamonds and sapphires, and a 14.56ct rare orange beryl, before I’m introduced to Seed Takes Flight, a behemoth of 931 diamonds, sapphires, rubies and garnets and a 14.8mm golden South Sea pearl. I guess he wanted to start me gently.