Hand-Making the Signature Envelope Necklace


As with all pieces in the By Leahy Collection, the Signature Envelope Necklace is 100% designed and handmade in Ireland.

The Signature Envelope Necklace is a very personal piece. By Leahy began from a love for jewellery-making, and I delight in every item of jewellery that I bring from start to finish on my bench in Galway, on the West Coast of Ireland.

Here's a walk through the making process that goes into the By Leahy cornerstone piece – the Signature Envelope...

Slowly and meticulously hand-carved in wax, the Signature Envelope Necklace began to take shape.


 By Leahy handmade fine jewellery      By Leahy Handmade Fine Jewellery

The delicate wax carving was transformed into a master mould, from which each Signature Envelope Necklace is now individually produced.

But the hand-making process doesn't stop there.

Once cast in precious metal, each Signature Envelope Necklace – which comes in three parts; the lid, the body and the inner 'Slip' (so-called because it slips out of the envelope) – is assembled and brought from a raw cast state to a gleaming high-polish.

By Leahy fine jewellery 9ct gold
Once they are given their final file and first polish, each Signature Envelope is assembled. The inner Slip is inserted into the envelope and the chain is attached to the pendant.

Then the necklace goes through a series of polishing rounds to bring it to its final high-polish finish. Lastly, it is cleaned with a soft polishing cloth.

By Leahy Fine Jewellery Signature Envelope Necklace 9ct gold, 18ct gold, Oh happy Days
As part of the process, each necklace is stamped with the official seal of approval – a hallmark by the Assay Office which is nestled away on the grounds of Dublin Castle. The hallmark guarantees the purity and quality of the precious metal. Whether you are purchasing an 18ct gold, 9ct gold, rose gold, sterling silver, or white gold piece, you’ll see the corresponding stamp on the base of the envelope. More information on hallmarking can be found here.

Last but not least, when each Signature Envelope is ready to exit the bench, it is placed in a deluxe soft-touch white gift box with minimalist branding. The gift is presented in a mini matching gift bag with cotton-soft handles. (The gift wrapping is either recyclable or recycled. You can read more about the sustainability of the By Leahy packaging here).

You will also receive a little card sharing the story behind the brand and helpful tips on how to care for the piece. Every item is shipped securely by registered post, via An Post.

By Leahy Fine Jewellery Sustainable Packaging

The envelope pendant measures, height 8mm, length 15mm, width 5mm. The inner slip measures, height 6mm, length 11mm.

This Signature Envelope is available in 18ct yellow gold, 9ct yellow gold, sterling silver or rose gold. White gold on request.

Designed and Handmade in Ireland

Personalised With Your Special Memory

Complimentary Standard Engraving, Gift Wrapping, and Shipping.

Delivery Details:
All items are handmade and finished on my bench in Galway, Ireland. Once your order is placed it will be dispatched within 7 working days. Special requests, such as white gold, will be dispatched within 14 working days.

If you need an item more urgently than that, contact me at hello@byleahy.com and I'll do my best to accommodate you.