About
Handmade ocean inspired jewellery for the soul
Hello, I'm Shelley, owner and maker behind Shelley Ide Jewellery. I first studied jewellery at college over 25 years ago, and after spending time working in a workshop, I decided to follow my dream, creating jewellery that reflects my love of the ocean and the organic shapes and textures shaped by the waves. My goal is to design unique silver pieces that let you carry a little piece of the sea with you wherever you go.
Each piece is handcrafted in my studio, nestled between the South Downs and the south coast of West Sussex. I work with sterling silver, ethically sourced semi-precious stones, and sea glass, much of which I find along the South Coast and beyond. Wherever possible, I recycle materials to help reduce waste and keep my designs eco-friendly.
The coast and ocean are a constant source of inspiration — the movement of waves, the delicate textures of seashells, and the life they hold. I love transforming these natural elements into jewellery that captures the essence of the sea.
When I'm not making jewellery, you'll probably find me wandering the beach with my workshop buddy Dudley, our favourite spot!
Shelley x
How each piece is made
Every piece of Shelley Ide Jewellery is made entirely by hand in my studio in Worthing, West Sussex. I use traditional silversmithing techniques including sand casting, hand forging, hammering, and stone setting — the same methods used by silversmiths for centuries, now applied to designs inspired by the natural world.
Sand casting is one of my favourite techniques. It allows me to press natural objects — a real starfish, a shell, a piece of coral — directly into casting sand to create a mould, then pour molten silver to capture every intricate detail. The result is a piece that is truly one of a kind, because no two natural objects are ever exactly the same.
Each piece is then hand-finished, polished, and quality checked before being carefully packaged in eco-friendly boxes, ready to gift or keep.
Materials & sourcing
- Sterling silver (925): All jewellery is made from hallmarked 925 sterling silver — durable, beautiful, and suitable for sensitive skin.
- Seaglass: Collected by hand from beaches along the Sussex coast and the Channel Islands. Each piece of seaglass is unique in colour, shape, and history.
- Semi-precious stones: Ethically sourced gemstones including aquamarine, Swiss topaz, larimar, and cubic zirconia, chosen for their ocean-inspired colours.
- Eco-friendly packaging: All orders are packaged in recyclable, matchbox-style jewellery boxes with ribbon, sent in protective mailing boxes.
Jewellery workshops in Worthing
As well as selling jewellery, I run beginner-friendly silversmithing workshops. Whether you want to make a silver ring, a pair of earrings, or simply learn more about how jewellery is made, the workshops are a perfect hands on experience. All tools and materials are provided, no experience necessary.
Find out more about workshops →
Frequently asked questions
Is your jewellery hallmarked?
Yes, all Shelley Ide Jewellery is made from 925 sterling silver and is hallmarked in accordance with UK assay requirements where required.
Is sterling silver suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, 925 sterling silver is generally well tolerated by people with sensitive skin. It is nickel-free and hypoallergenic when properly cared for.
How do I care for my silver jewellery?
Store your jewellery in the jewellery box provided, away from air and moisture. Remove before swimming, showering, or applying perfume. Polish gently with a soft cloth to restore shine. A silver polishing cloth works well if tarnishing occurs, this is a natural process and not a fault.
Do you offer custom or bespoke pieces?
I occasionally take on bespoke commissions. Please get in touch via the contact page to discuss your ideas.
Where are you based?
My studio is in Worthing, West Sussex, on the south coast of England.