Meet the Makers
Margaret O Rourke standing outside her charming store in Powerscourt Townhouse.
In the first of our series on Meet The Makers, where we introduce just some of the incredible talent thriving in Powerscourt Centre, we are shining a spotlight on one of our favourite Irish jewellers, MoMuse.
Nestled in an inviting corner of our historic Townhouse, MoMuse started out as a single stall in the same corner which today houses their charming store. Simple and understated jewellery designs with an emphasis on clean lines and geometric shapes abound. Imbued with romance, each piece is more desirable than the next.
We sat down with founder and jewellery designer Margaret O Rourke to find out more…
How would you describe MoMuse?
Our collections embody the ideals of modernist design; they are simple and understated with an emphasis on clean lines and geometric shapes. MoMuse has evolved from a costume jewellery brand into a fine gold brand, with the core collection featuring stars, moons and circles in 9kt gold and 14kt gold-filled. Sticking true to our minimal aesthetic, every piece is simple in design; some scattered with black diamonds (a favourite of mine) and precious gemstones to add intrigue.
What influences your work?
My inspiration now is very much travel and people but when I was initially setting up, it was all about simplicity and clean lines. I’m a firm believer of the notion that less is more. Dainty fallen stars, shimmering night skies and crescent moons are at the heart of my collections.
Margaret O Rourke designing some of her MoMuse pieces.
What’s your favourite aspect of your job?
Coming up with new ideas for my collections and seeing it finally on our customers. Working on a shoot for my collections is also so exciting when you use an amazing team that create your story
I love interiors and creating new window displays for the shop. Also my lovely customers, both in Ireland and overseas, without whom I would not be here - particularly after the past two years which have been a challenge for all of us.
What’s your favourite thing about working with gemstones and metal?
It’s colours for me, particularly green, and I love working with gold diamonds of course black and white, and shapes like baguette diamonds, which is my own engagement ring.
Is there a story behind your brand name?
The name actually stems from my initials, Mo, and the brand itself was founded by my desire to create pieces of jewellery as an empowerment and invitation to ‘be your own muse’.
Can you describe your workspace?
Our workspace is very positive, uplifting and creative. It’s important to me that I have a strong team and that everyone works well together. We really love to look after our customers and have a no-pressure approach when it comes to helping them.
How long does it take to complete one piece?
It varies from piece to piece. Sometimes we’ll get it right very quickly, and other times we take our time sourcing the perfect gemstones and materials. It’s a hard one to put a time frame on.
Do you have a creative routine?
I am very much inspired by travel and the night sky and travel particularly gets my creative juices going. I often sketch on a flight.
How does customer interaction in Powerscourt influence your work?
We love our customers and really listen to what they want. Along with travels and the night sky, our customers inspire us everyday.
How do you switch off outside of work from the creative process?
Taking some downtime with yoga and chilling in my garden, and meeting up with pals of course.
Located on the Ground Floor of Powerscourt Townhouse Centre, MoMuse is open monday-Saturday 10:30-6pm and Sunday 1-5pm.
Click here to visit their website.