Jeweller draws inspiration from Dartmoor for her unique creations

A Dartmoor jeweller says the moor’s rugged beauty shapes her every design. 

For Corrinne Eira Evans, co-founder of Moon & Moor Gallery in Okehampton, Dartmoor isn’t just a backdrop; it’s the lifeblood of her craft.

Corrinne, who’s drawn to the moor three or four times a week, finds solace and inspiration in its changing landscapes, moody skies, and ancient history.

“Going up on the moor is like therapy,” Corrinne says. 

“It’s different every time; changing colours, shifting seasons, the sunsets and beautiful skies. There’s a mystery and magic there that I try to bring into my work.”

Her process often starts with sketching on the moor, absorbing its essence and translating it into her jewellery designs.

Her passion for jewellery began at just 14, during a summer art school at Plymouth College of Art. 

From there, she went on to study jewellery techniques, eventually completing an intensive two-year course at Birmingham School of Jewellery and later graduating from Falmouth University. 

ABOVE: Corrinne's Moorland Earrings with diamonds

After years working on bespoke pieces and small commissions, she and her partner, Andrew, returned to Devon. 

They launched Moon & Moor in Okehampton in 2019, driven by a vision to create a gallery that celebrated local makers and emphasised ethical, environmentally friendly practices.

“It was perfect timing,” Corrinne recalls. 

“We’d seen some interesting things happening in the area, and when a couple of units became available, it felt right to have a space where we could showcase local art and crafts.” Today, the gallery stocks a variety of local makers’ pieces alongside Corrinne’s own creations. 

Visitors to Moon & Moor can often catch her working at her jeweller’s bench within the gallery, which she says adds to the connection she shares with customers. 

“It’s nice to be able to chat with people as I work, and to support other makers in the area,” she says.

Corrinne’s unique chain mail technique, which she describes as “soft and fluid against the body,” is a nod to historical craftsmanship while maintaining a contemporary feel. 

She carefully interweaves different metals to create rich contrasts that reflect Dartmoor’s diverse colours and textures. 

Each piece, she hopes, will make its wearer feel “special and empowered,” and for those with connections to Dartmoor, it’s a piece of the landscape itself. They’re modern heirlooms,” she says, “designed to be passed down.”

Recognition from publications like British Vogue and Vanity Fair has further validated her work. 

At London’s Goldsmiths’ Fair this year, Corrinne was chosen as one of the top jewellers to watch by Vanity Fair’s Jewellery Editor, Annabel Davidson, having been similarly recognised by Vogue in the past. 

“It’s an honour to be recognised for doing what I love, especially by people I admire,” she says. 

“It shows that people connect with the pieces and see the inspiration behind them.”

Looking forward, Corrinne plans to continue growing her gallery, with hopes of expanding internationally to exhibit in America and Paris. 

She’s also excited about her new collection featuring single-origin 18-carat gold and ethically sourced sapphires, whose shifting colours echo the Dartmoor landscape.

Moon & Moor Gallery has drawn in both locals and tourists, many of whom travel from as far as Australia and New Zealand.

Corrinne says, “It’s wonderful seeing how many people are discovering Dartmoor and supporting local makers. There’s something beautiful about being able to share this place and its spirit with them.”