With a deep-rooted passion for handmade jewellery, I find mass-produced high street items lacking any true essence. To me, the story and beliefs behind the creation of a piece are what truly matter. It's not just about the craftsmanship; it's about the journey that each stone, each design, takes. When I choose pieces for my collection, they must speak to me on a personal level—they need to sing. But I can't keep everything that calls to me, so I sell what I don't need to ensure my passion stays alive and thriving. I'm a collector at heart, a bit of a magpie, really. My collections span across all sorts of treasures: vintage taxidermy, old prints that I restore and reprint, mineral and semi-precious stones, fossils, vintage medical equipment, and even tattoo and barber tools. Each piece holds a unique story, and that's the real magic for me. a deep-rooted passion for handmade jewellery, I find mass-produced high street items lacking any true essence. To me, the story and beliefs behind the creation of a piece are what truly matter. It's not just about the craftsmanship; it's about the journey that each stone, each design, takes. When I choose pieces for my collection, they must speak to me on a personal level—they need to sing. But I can't keep everything that calls to me, so I sell what I don't need to ensure my passion stays alive and thriving. I'm a collector at heart, a bit of a magpie, really. My collections span across all sorts of treasures: vintage taxidermy, old prints that I restore and reprint, mineral and semi-precious stones, fossils, vintage medical equipment, and even tattoo and barber tools. Each piece holds a unique story, and that's the real magic for me.
Stephen Valentine Maybury was more than a close friend—he was a true source of inspiration. He passed away on December 14, 2017, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape my passions today. It was through Steve that I discovered my love for Native American jewellery and vintage clothing, as well as a deep appreciation for history and fashion, which we often discussed at length.
Born in Chester, Steve travelled extensively before settling in Oxford, where he designed textiles and ceramics for major fashion houses. His studio attracted all kinds of visitors, and one memorable day, a rather unassuming man walked in with his small family. One of Steve’s girls recognized him—it was none other than Johnny Depp. Impressed by Steve’s craftsmanship, Depp purchased an ivory bead bracelet, which later appeared in the famous Sauvage Dior advert.
Now, I can talk the hind leg off a donkey, but Steve was more than a match for me. Our conversations seemed endless, yet there was never enough time to absorb all that he had to share. His unexpected passing left a deep void in the lives of those who knew him.
On the way to his funeral, I saw an eagle taking flight—a moment that felt like a sign. Since then, whenever I see a bird of prey soaring in the sky, I know Steve is near. That’s why an eagle proudly dominates my page—it's a tribute to him.
RIP Steve Valentine Maybury, miss you, buddy.
