Marilyn was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, in 1957 and has spent most of her

                                            formative years in Ottawa.

                                           

                                            Marilyn’s interest in jewelry began during her high school years.  For the first three years after graduation, she gained valuable experience selling retail jewelry, while developing her skills as a goldsmith in her spare time.

 

In 1981, she opened her first studio boutique, which initially specialized in contract service work.  Over the years, Marilyn slowly moved out of service work and into custom design and fabrication.

 

In 1988 Marilyn made the move to expand her business to the Ottawa Market where she is continuously expanding her designer line of fine jewelry and extraordinary custom pieces.

 

Her designs were recognized by DeBeer’s Diamond Today Awards in 1989 and 1995, Canada’s most prestigious jewelry award.

 

Her two winning pieces, "444" and "Mosaic" both follow Marilyn’s philosophy that Jewelry must be as smart as it is beautiful.  . "444" is a gold and diamond bangle which transforms into a bracelet and diamond hoop earring set, while "Mosaic" is a gold and diamond pendant patterned on the classic children’s game.

 

Marilyn finally moved Marigold Design Studio to its present location at 266 Dalhousie Street. Although she still specializes in custom pieces Marigold offers an array of retail jewellery from engagement rings to fresh water pearls.