Dorothy Fletcher Bentley - Jewellery Artist
Dorothy Fletcher Bentley's designs are inspired by her upbringing near the Boyne Valley and the captivating spiral symbols at Newgrange. Dorothy's work features interlace knotwork and spirals (infinity symbols) in her jewellery, all carved in wax and cast in sterling silver. By staying with traditional techniques each piece is unique and you can see and feel her work in the tactile raised relief pattern. Visit her newgrange-inspired jewellery at: NewgrangeJewellery.com
About the maker
Dorothy Fletcher Bentley is the owner and creator of Newgrange Jewellery, a line of sterling silver Celtic jewellery inspired by the ancient tri-spiral symbol at Newgrange in County Meath. A professional graphic designer and lifelong creative, she works from her home studio in Tullow, County Carlow. She grew up near the Boyne Valley and the Newgrange passage tomb, visiting many times throughout her life. The pattern carved into stone more than 5,000 years ago has always fascinated her; she describes it as speaking of life, growth, and eternal cycles.
Lost wax casting
Every piece is hand-carved in wax and cast in .925 sterling silver using lost-wax casting, one of the oldest metalworking techniques, with roots stretching back thousands of years. Dorothy shapes each design with a spirit lamp, wax tools, and patience. While modern 3D printing can replicate forms, she chooses hand carving so each piece carries the warmth, texture, and raised relief of true craftsmanship—in the same spirit as the exquisite patterns made by ancient Irish artisans. Each item is hallmarked at the Assay Office in Dublin and personally finished in her studio before dispatch from Ireland via registered post.
Collections
The Newgrange Jewellery shop includes the Tri-Spiral Collection—pendants, rings, and stud earrings—as well as Celtic knot, spiral, Slaney, and Bracken ranges. Her bespoke Celtic knot motif appears on stud and drop earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, designed to work as everyday or dress jewellery. The tri-spiral that features prominently on kerb stones at Newgrange has been a source of fascination for centuries; Dorothy's work translates that heritage into wearable silver pieces described on her site as "a timeless design, a forever gift."