A Schull jeweller has created a commemorative pendant that was inspired by a much-loved English singer/songwriter who had made the seaside town his home.
A SCHULL jeweller has created a commemorative pendant that was inspired by a much-loved English singer/songwriter who had made the seaside town his home.
The pendant, inspired by the late Colin Vearncombe, otherwise known as Black, will raise money for Cork-based Brú Columbanus, an organisation that has recently opened a charity shop in Schull.
Colin passed away in Cork University Hospital in January 2016 after he was involved in a car accident while he was en route to Cork airport.
In the days following his accident, Brú Columbanus provided Colin’s family with a home-from-home in Wilton. The service provides accommodation to families who want to be near their friends and family who are receiving treatment in the city’s hospitals.
The commemorative pendant was designed by Sabine Lenz of Schull company Enibas, in conjunction with Colin’s wife, Camilla Griehsel, and their sons, Max, Marius and Milan.
It is inspired by a piece that Colin almost always wore. Sabine has remained faithful to the original design – a smiling sun – but has added just one embellishment, an inscription ‘Saol Iontach’.
It means Wonderful Life and that is the title of the song that made Colin an international star.
Pre-orders of the silver and gold commemorative pendants – each of which has a specific number – are being taken online, but they will not go on release until May 27th, one day after the family gather to honour Colin’s birthday.
Sabine Lenz confirmed that there will be just 50 9ct gold pendants and 500 sterling silver pendants produced, and that all of the proceeds will go directly to Brú Columbanus.
Camilla Griehsel told The Southern Star she was proud to work with Sabine on this unique project.
‘When Sabine first approached me with the idea of creating a commemorative piece inspired by Colin’s pendant, I immediately said yes,’ said Camilla.
‘I had the pendant made for Colin when we first met, so it held a particular significance for us, and now also for our children.
‘For some time, Sabine had wanted to create a piece of jewellery for charity, and we’re thrilled that she chose to combine Colin’s pendant with Brú Columbanus for this purpose.’
Camilla also spoke about the invaluable service provided by Brú Columbanus. ‘For that, and for the amazing love and support from our community,’ she said, ‘we are externally grateful.’
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