Combine Ingredients:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar.
2. Stir over medium heat until the sugar fully dissolves, forming a simple syrup.

Cook the Blackberries:

1. Add the fresh blackberries and lemon juice (and a pinch of salt, if using) to the syrup.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Allow it to cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the blackberries break down and the syrup thickens slightly.

Strain the Syrup:

1. Remove the saucepan from heat.
2. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a bowl to separate the seeds and pulp from the syrup.
3. Gently press with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible.

Cool and Store:

1. Allow the strained syrup to cool to room temperature.
2. Transfer the syrup into a clean storage jar.
3. Refrigerate; the syrup will keep for up to 2 weeks.