Behind Every Face, There’s Another Discovery.
John Weldon
What is the first thing that you notice about a person?
Their expression, I think I can interpret their mood and a sense of personality from that quite quickly.
What are some challenges you think the next generation will face?
Definite climate change, it’s already noticeable but I think there are going to be huge changes for them to deal with and adjust to..
What’s the most spontaneous thing you have ever done?
I jumped into a small river pond in Marmaris mountain area in Turkey back in February 1982 , the sun was shining and temperature was about 18C but the water was melting ice, I’ll be less spontaneous in future. Ha Ha.
What did you think was cool then, when you were young but isn’t cool now?
Speeding, goes without saying, really not cool.
What do you usually follow when making decisions, your head or your heart?
Unfortunately my head and it’s gotten me into some fine messes, but I am getting better at gut instinct even if it is late in life.
What is the best to start the day?
A good strong espresso ( ristretto ), being married to a beautiful Italian lady you learn to like your coffee Italiano style.
What’s the best meal you have ever had?
When I was very young my dad took us to Sherkin Island off Cork coast for a weekend where we were gifted some live crabs, I’ll never forget them, delicious.
What is the coolest thing you own?
An ancient Greek Coin with the image of Alexander the Great on one side and Roman soldiers on the other. Not very valuable but interesting and cool due to its age.
When did you get into jewellery?
I got into jewellery when I was about 23, I did a short course in Berlin and really, it was like a duck to water and I just never looked back, then the hobby turned to profession.
What is your most important jewellery tool? Is there something you can’t live without in your studio?
My fret saw, I was a very bad student with it originally but once I mastered it, it became my favorite go to item.
What’s the favourite part of your job?
I love the gratification of seeing somebody going away with something they love, that’s what make me smile, knowing I’ve created something others appreciate.
What do you wish you had invented?
I think they were originally called “ cats eyes “, the reflectors in the middle of the roads, brilliant invention, saved loads of lives and made loads of money.
What is something that seemed like a good idea at the time?
Moving to Dingle. Never been here before, just turned up, liked it and stayed. No regrets.
What’s the best advice you have ever received?
Never lend what you can’t afford to lose, a very good motto from my mum.
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