In the window of our Kirkwall shop sits a curious lump of rock that’s been catching the light — and sparking a little curiosity. Shimmering with shifting colours, it’s more than just beautiful; it’s a piece of Orkney history with a surprising tale.

Back in the 1800s, Orkney had strong trading ties with Canada. One Orkney vessel, Harmony, returned from Canadian waters carrying a haul of stone used as ballast — practical weight to steady the ship for its journey home. When Harmony arrived in Stromness, its captain, Henry Linklater of Graemsay, had no further use for the ballast and offloaded the rocks on the small island of Inner Holm, just in the harbour.

Later, Captain Linklater built the only house on that little island. Years down the line, the house’s last occupant noticed something special about the scattered stones. They weren’t local — and in certain light, they shimmered and shifted in colour, unlike anything else nearby. Recognising their uniqueness, she donated the larger pieces to the Orkney Historic Boat Society, who’ve kindly loaned one of them to us for display.

The stone is labradorite: a remarkable mineral known for its iridescent flashes of blue, green, and gold. It’s a favourite in my jewellery designs, not just for its beauty, but for the stories it holds. According to Inuit folklore, labradorite carries the Northern Lights within it — and when the light catches just right, you’ll understand why.

Though this gemstone originated far from Orkney’s shores, its journey has tied it firmly to our island’s past. It’s a quiet reminder of Orkney’s global connections and the unexpected treasures that wash up when worlds meet.

If you’re in Orkney, pop in and see it for yourself. It’s a small piece of rock — but it carries a big story.