Harp & Hound Jewelry is a place for fanciers of one-of-a-kind rings, pendants, and earrings, many with an Irish touch. Located in the former space of Marlene Harris Collection in Blawnox, the studio features jewelry handmade by owner Dan Jacko, who draws inspiration from his Gaelic maternal roots.
Gaelic Influences at Harp and Hound Jewelry in Blawnox
Jacko also crafts custom pieces, collaborating with clients to turn concepts into wearable art. “When left to my own devices, I create a lot of Irish stuff, putting my own spin on traditional knots and other designs from the Book of Kells. But that’s not all I do,” says Jacko. He also offers custom work, “using the stones and other components a client already has, or making something from scratch, beginning with sketching an idea.”
Other services include jewelry repair and antique jewelry restoration. With a B.A. in metalsmithing and a minor in art history, he renders heirloom-quality items from precious metals, as well as precious and semiprecious stones. Jacko has advanced training in ornamental engraving, platinum fabrication, and stone setting. With more than 20 years of experience in bench work for other jewelers, Jacko opened Harp & Hound in December. The store’s name was inspired by his wife Laura’s love of playing the Irish folk harp and by their dog, Loki.
Jacko delights in crafting pieces that people will cherish. “Sentimental value,” he says, “is something no appraiser can put a dollar figure on.”
Story by Deborah Weisberg
Photo From Harp & Hound Jewelry