How a 172-Year-Old Jewelry House Has Adapted to New Trends with Guy Burton, Director of Hancocks in London

Episode 110

What you’ll learn in this episode:

  • The history of London’s iconic jewelry house Hancocks and its current location, Burlington Arcade
  • What sets antique gems apart from modern day stones
  • Why customers are more interested in antique diamond engagement rings than ever before
  • Why retro gold pieces from the 70s and 80s are in demand right now

About Guy Burton:

Guy Burton, DGA is the Bespoke Director at Hancocks, London’s oldest family jewelry house and purveyors of vintage and contemporary jewelry since 1849. During his time in the jewelry trade, he has developed a passion for diamonds and bespoke jewelry. In his role, he focuses on finding and acquiring the finest loose diamonds and gemstones and creating new jewelry pieces, as well as expanding the Hancocks antique jewelry collection. He has created an extensive collection of contemporary diamond jewelry for Hancocks with a focus on unusual and rare old cut diamonds.

Episode Transcript

Additional Resources:

Photos:

 

A group of beautiful antique Colombian emeralds in rings by Hancocks London.

Five loose antique diamonds.

  A very special 11.36ct antique asscher cut diamond in ring by Hancocks London.

The Anglesey Tiara, an incredible Victorian treasure with a very rich history, currently for sale at Hancocks London.

Sharon Berman