Kirkwall -- The Longship, 7-15 Broad St. (tel. 01856/888-790), is the retail outlet of Ola Gorie for Orkney jewelry in Kirkwall. This family business has a wide range of high-quality pieces, including some inspired by stone carvings found at archaeological digs and others by the rich flora and fauna of the islands. A collection based on Charles Rennie Mackintosh designs has proved popular. The Longship also offers a variety of gifts, including fashion and furnishing accessories by Orkney-based Tait & Style.
Sheila Fleet, 30 Bridge St. (tel. 01856/876-900; www.sheila-fleet.co.uk), is the leading competitor to Ola Gorie, and is also acclaimed as one of the best jewelry designers in Scotland. Her designs reflect the sea, the sky, and landscape colors of the Orkneys. Some of her designs show a Scandinavian influence.
Ortak Jewelry, 10 Albert St. (tel. 01856/873-536), is the main shop of the famous jewelry studio that produces a wide range of silver and gold pieces featuring Celtic, traditional Orcadian, Victorian, and Art Nouveau designs. The shop also sells items like pottery, barometers, and crystal made by other local artists. The Ortak Factory Shop, Hatson Industrial Estate (tel. 01856/872-224), is adjacent to the Ortak factory, and is the only shop that carries the complete Ortak line. A visitor center shows videos on jewelry making, and free factory tours are offered Monday to Friday in July and August. In winter, the shop and visitor center are open by appointment only.
Judith Glue, 25 Broad St. (tel. 01856/874-225), produces hand- and machine-made knitwear for the entire family. The artisans tend to favor old-fashioned island patterns, handed down over the generations. Also available are wares of other local artists, along with an interesting selection of handmade pottery, jewelry, greeting cards, soaps, and island music.
