Hancocks has been a trusted name in the jewellery world for over 170 years. Founded in 1849 on the corner of Bond Street and Bruton Street by C.F. Hancock, this eponymous firm quickly built a reputation for excellence. Within a year the company had been granted a Royal Warrant by Queen Victoria and was soon counting many of the principal sovereigns of Europe as patrons.

In 1856 they were awarded a hugely prestigious commission when Lord Panmure, acting on behalf of Queen Victoria, entrusted them with the manufacture of the newly created Victoria Cross medal. This medal was to be awarded for 'conspicuous bravery' regardless of rank and cast from the bronze of two canons confiscated during the Crimean War. This was a huge honour for Hancocks and the company is proud to continue to supply these medals, still regarded as the highest military honour, to this day.

Diamond tiara

 

Antique and vintage jewellery are the heart of the business and amongst the countless notable pieces which have passed through the company's hands over the years is a ruby and diamond necklace which was part of the French crown jewels; a ruby and an emerald suite from the Seringapatam jewels; a Cartier diamond rose brooch worn by Princess Margaret to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and this wonderful tiara worn to the coronation of both King George VI and Queen Elizabeth II.

Trio of diamond engagement rings

Today, Hancocks also offers a collection of in-house designed and made diamond and gemstone engagement rings. Honouring their founder's values of quality and craftsmanship these are all handmade and set with antique and vintage cut diamonds and gems. The collection has expanded in recent years and now presents discerning brides-to-be with an exceptional selection of both traditional and contemporary style rings. By focusing on old cut gems, re-using and breathing new life into them, the company is pursuing a far more sustainable and ecologically friendly option for diamond jewellery compared to the environmental cost of newly mined and manufactured diamonds.

Four signet rings in various metal colours and sizes. They are engraved with different symbols

Signet rings are another of the firm's specialities, their dedicated signet ring website allows you to search a unique online database for your family crest and then create your own signet ring with options for precious metal colour and carat, size and shape of head and engravings. All rings are hand engraved by master craftsmen using time honoured skills passed down the generations and can incorporate a secret message hidden inside the band as well as the traditional deep seal engraving to the head.

As Hancocks moves forward into 2022 and beyond, the company's focus remains on sourcing and creating exceptional jewels. From initial design stages through to the finished handcrafted piece, they use their decades of expertise and wide-ranging resources to help make jewellery dreams come true. 

Visit www.hancocks-london.com for more information.