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    History & Heritage

    Obernik Family 1950s

    Our story begins 80 years ago, back in 1941, when our founder Gustaf (Nicky) Obernik, took his family on a weekend break to Killarney to visit the famous Gap of Dunloe. Gustaf was surprised to see the volume of visitors that were attracted to this beautiful landmark and he started to explore the idea of designing and manufacturing Irish jewellery inspired by Ireland’s rich history and heritage.

    When he founded his jewellery business at No.10 Harcourt Street in Dublin, he could hardly have imagined what it would become. Back then, and starting with just 2 employees, his company soon became known for their beautiful, Celtic and Irish history inspired pieces. He went on to be one of the first, if not the first, person to design and manufacture brooches using Connemara Marble, a material that is unique to Ireland.

    Both of his sons, Tony and Nicky joined the company in the 60’s, continuing the heritage by growing and developing the company further. Tony spent a lot of his time travelling the world sourcing inspiration for product design, while Nicky spent his time developing customer relations through attending sales events and visiting customers. Grandson Marcus joined the company in 2002 and works now as the creative director.

    Solvar's first premises, 10 Harcourt Street, Dublin
    No. 10 Harcourt Street Where it all started 80 years ago
    Gustaf Obernik with his wife Margo
    Margo and Gustaf ObernikGustaf with his beloved wife  
    Time honoured craft and artistryHandcrafted with skill, passion & wisdom

    SOLVAR TODAY

    Solvar is an award-winning jewellery manufacturer. We are a third-generation family run Irish business combining our passion for the history and heritage of Ireland with our love of jewellery.

    Find out more


    IRISH SYMBOLS AND HISTORIES

    Celtic Cross symbol

    THE CELTIC CROSS

    A symbol of Irish faith Find out more
    Claddagh symbol

    THE CLADDAGH

    A symbol of Love, loyalty & friendship Find out more
    Irish Harp symbol

    THE IRISH HARP

    A symbol of Irish identity & pride Find out more
    Shamrock symbol

    THE SHAMROCK

    A symbol of our emerald isle Find out more
    Tree of life symbol

    THE TREE OF LIFE

    A symbol of family & Celtic heritageFind out more
    Trinity Knot symbol

    THE TRINITY KNOT

    A symbol of never ending love & eternal life Find out more
    St Bridget's Cross symbol

    ST. BRIDGET’S CROSS

    Ancient Irish symbol of protection Find out more
    Connemara Marble symbol

    CONNEMARA MARBLE

    Ireland's unique gemstone from the unspoilt wild Atlantic coast Find out more
    Dublin Street Lamp

    Steeped in the history of Dublin and Ireland

    Did you know all the old street lamps around us in Dublin are adorned with shamrocks, the emblem of our Emerald Isle? The further you go from the city the fewer shamrocks there are. Dublin is chock-full of lovely stories and details like this. It inspires our craft everyday, as do all Irish symbols and stories.

    We love where we are from. The Dublin of 80 years ago when the company was founded was a very different place to what it is now, but we are still here. Dublin is full of great pubs, vibrant culture, great shops, amazing food and the best Guinness in the world. This is the city of the world famous Trinity College, Stephen’s Green, beautiful Christ Church and historic Dublin Castle, where our pieces are hallmarked.

    Irish stories, symbols, art and heritage have always been our passion and our inspiration, ever since that long ago visit to Killarney, which was the inspiration to create beautiful jewelry pieces based on Celtic and Irish culture. When you buy Solvar, you are getting a little piece of historic Dublin and Ireland, from our family to yours.