Farm Square, Torosay Castle, Craignure, Isle of Mull.

INTRODUCTION TO KELLS

Ralph at his bench.

Kells Gold & Silversmiths was originally founded by Ralph Weston in 1991, where from his workshop in Kintra he set about reproducing ancient Celtic jewellery. In 1997 with the popularity of his jewellery growing, it was decided that Kells would move to its present location in the grounds of Torosay Castle. From their 19th century hall Kells has now grown into a thriving family run business which prides itself on the quality and finish to it’s jewellery.

ABOUT RALPH WESTON

Ralph Weston, a well respected Gold & Silversmith settled on the Isle of Mull in 1989, taking inspiration from the fine examples of Celtic Art associated with the islands of Mull & Iona. Using a traditional approach to his work, he designs exquisite pieces, many of which are based upon the intricate biomorphic patterns found in the Book Of Kells. In recent years Ralph has begun to focus more on stone set jewellery, especially the use of Iona Marble and other Hebridean semi-precious stones, to enhance his unique range of Kells jewellery. Our team of skilled craftsmen cut, polish and set this and other stones by hand, making pieces of jewellery soley exclusive to Kells.

Celtic designs have traditionally been used to create fine art and are sometimes referred to as “The Work of The Angels” because of their elaborate and beautiful forms. The majority of Celtic jewellery at Kells is inspired from the Celtic manuscripts of the “Book of Durrow”, “Book of Lindisfarne” and more significantly the “ Book of Kells”.

The Book of kells was originally written by monks on the Isle of Iona and Kells monasteries (Ireland) around Ad 800. Lavishly illustrated and written, it depicts the four Gospels, and was described as “the chief treasure of the western world”. After a turbulent history the Book Of Kells is now on permanent display in Trinity College Dublin.

Plain Celtic Brooches

Iona Crosses

Kilt pins

Necklaces

Iona Marble Brooches

Earrings

Bracelets

Rings

Spoons