People thrive when their talents are recognised and nurtured.

In memory of my grandparents.

My grandfather began working in the Limburg coal mines at twelve, his family unable to afford further schooling despite his intelligence. Determined to give his children a better future, he and my grandmother, with her discipline, bridged the gap between talent and opportunity.

He worked tirelessly, often taking extra Sunday shifts to fund their education. As a blaster, he drilled and placed explosives, wich is a dangerous job that made others' work safer. The brooch’s copper wire shows his resilience, the iron wire my grandmother’s strength, and the six balls made from both metals symbolise their children.

Although the mine was a burden, it became the foundation for their family’s future.

The creation of this brooch—awarded Best Jewellery at the Amber Trip art jewellery contest and exhibited in Vilnius, Lithuania, from 12–14 February 2026—embodies that legacy.