From Gems to Gold: The UK’s 10 Best Jewellers

For jewellery shop owners looking to grow and improve their business, it can be insightful to examine the top players in the industry. The UK is home to many prestigious jewellery retailers with outstanding brand recognition, large employee counts, and impressive revenue streams. 

Understanding what makes these jewellery giants successful can provide valuable lessons for small and growing jewellery businesses.

1. Theo Fennell 

Founded in 1982, Theo Fennell is a luxury British jewellery brand favoured by royalty and celebrities. Their handcrafted designs combine elegance and creativity, using precious metals and gemstones. With only one store, the jeweller has built prestige through quality and service.

2. Tessuti Jewellery

Tessuti is a leading independent jewellery retailer with around 30 stores across the UK. They specialise in diamond jewellery and also stock luxury watch brands, silver and gold items. The company is renowned for offering exceptional customer service to ensure customers have a great shopping experience.

3. Chisholm Hunter

Tracing its origins back to 1857, Chisholm Hunter operates 27 stores across the UK. The jewellery retailer offers Rolex watches, diamond rings, and fine jewellery. With around 500 employees, Chisholm Hunter is one of the leading independent jewellers in the UK.

4. F. Hinds 

This family-owned jeweller first opened in 1856 and now has over 115 stores nationwide. F. Hinds offers affordable luxury jewellery and watches from brands like Guess and DKNY. Their large store footprint and product variety attract diverse clientele.

5. Beaverbrooks 

Beaverbrooks is one of the UK’s leading jewellery retailers with over 70 stores. The company sells jewellery, watches, and gifts with popular brand partnerships like TAG Heuer and Pandora, as well as their own house line. 

6. Watches of Switzerland

Despite its name, Watches of Switzerland is a British company founded in 1924. They retail luxury Swiss watches alongside jewellery from Rolex, Cartier and more. This company has around 150 stores in the UK and 6 stores in Europe.

7. Goldsmiths

Part of the Aurum Group, Goldsmiths has over 120 stores throughout the UK. The jeweller has been in business for over 200 years and offers designer brands like Emporio Armani alongside diamonds and precious jewels. Their wide selection appeals to various tastes, making them a popular choice.

8. Ernest Jones

Owned by Signet Jewelers, Ernest Jones is one of the UK’s largest diamond jewellery retailers. They operate over 100 stores nationwide, providing fine jewellery, branded watches, and gifts. Strong brand partnerships and a vast retail presence spur their success. 

9. Fraser Hart

This jewellery chain operates 25 stores across the UK, specialising in diamond rings and wedding jewellery alongside luxury watches. Fraser Hart first opened in 1936 and their classic style and personal service make them a reliable choice. 

10. Tiffany & Co

The iconic American jeweller opened its first UK boutique in 1986 and now has 12 stores nationwide. Though smaller in the UK, the Tiffany brand is associated with exceptional diamonds and craftsmanship. Their luxe creations make them a top jeweller choice.

Key Takeaways for Jewellery Shop Owners

Examining the success of best jewellers in UK reveals some consistent strategies for growth in the industry:

• Expand your physical retail presence to improve brand visibility and accessibility. 
• Forge partnerships with established watch and jewellery brands to augment your selections.
• Focus on providing exceptional customer service and consultative sales.
• Invest in quality materials and craftsmanship to build prestige around your business.
• Diversify your product range to appeal to varied demographics.

Protect Your Jewellery Business with Brisco  

By learning from the best, small jewellery businesses can adopt proven tactics to enhance their reputation, reach, and offerings. 

With Brisco Business, jewellery shop owners can secure their valuable assets against theft and damage while providing customer peace of mind with our jewellery shop insurance. Our industry expertise ensures your unique risks and assets are protected. Get a quote today or speak to our expert team to protect the future of your jewellery enterprise.

Maria Hickey

For more than 20 years, Maria has worked in the insurance sector and has extensive underwriting and customer service expertise. Maria is an experienced Senior Underwriter with a particular specialism for shop, office and surgery related insurance.

All articles by Maria Hickey