Garrard: The Legacy of Britain's First Crown Jeweller
Garrard & Co. Limited stands as one of the most prestigious names in the world of luxury jewelry. Founded in London, this historic house has spent centuries crafting exquisite pieces for the global elite and the British monarchy. From its early days as a silversmith's workshop to its tenure as the official Crown Jeweller, Garrard has shaped the visual identity of British royalty and international sporting prestige.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1722 (mark entered in Goldsmiths' Hall) by George Wickes.
- Headquarters: Albemarle Street, Mayfair, London.
- Royal Status: Served as the first official Crown Jeweller of the United Kingdom from 1843 to 2007.
- Notable Works: The America's Cup, the ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy, and the engagement ring of Catherine Middleton.
- Specialization: High jewelry, luxury silverware, and official sporting trophies.
The Evolution of a Jewelry Empire
The origins of the company trace back to 1722, when George Wickes, an accomplished silversmith specializing in the rococo style (an ornate and asymmetrical artistic movement), entered his mark in Goldsmiths' Hall. Initially operating in Threadneedle Street, Wickes moved his business to Panton Street in 1735 to better serve his aristocratic patrons, including Frederick, Prince of Wales.
The firm underwent several ownership changes throughout the 18th century. After Wickes retired in 1760, the business was managed by apprentices John Parker and Edward Wakelin, and later by John Wakelin and William Taylor. In 1792, Robert Garrard joined as a partner, eventually taking sole control in 1802. The company traded under various names, including R., J., & S. Garrard, before officially registering as Garrard & Company Ltd in 1909.
Corporate Transitions and Modern Era
The 20th century brought significant structural changes. In 1952, Garrard amalgamated with The Goldsmiths and Silversmiths Company. By 1959, the firm was acquired by Mappin & Webb, a subsidiary of Sears Holdings. Following a period of merger and demerger with Asprey plc between 1990 and 2002, Garrard returned to its historic Albemarle Street site. In 2006, the company was acquired by the US private equity firm Yucaipa Companies.
The Crown Jeweller and Royal Patronage
In 1843, Queen Victoria appointed Garrard as the first official Crown Jeweller. For over 160 years, the house was responsible for the upkeep of the British Crown Jewels and the creation of magnificent pieces for the royal family. This included the 1911 Imperial Crown of India, the coronation crown of Queen Mary, and the 1937 crown of Queen Elizabeth.
Garrard's expertise extended to the world's most famous gemstones. In 1852, the company was tasked with re-cutting the Koh-i-Noor diamond into a brilliant cut. They also handled the Cullinan diamonds, including the "Great Star of Africa" (Cullinan I). While their official role as Crown Jeweller ended in 2007, the house continues to hold a royal warrant from King Charles III, granted while he was the Prince of Wales.
Iconic Royal Jewelry
Many of the most recognizable pieces of royal jewelry were born at Garrard. The house created the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara, famously worn by Queen Elizabeth II on British currency, and the Queen Mary Diamond Bandeau Tiara worn by Meghan Markle. Perhaps most famously, Garrard crafted the sapphire engagement ring given by Prince Charles to Lady Diana Spencer in 1981, which was later presented by Prince William to Catherine Middleton.
Beyond Jewelry: Sporting Trophies and Cinema
Garrard is equally renowned for its mastery of silverware and the creation of world-class sporting trophies. In 1848, the house produced the America's Cup, a sterling silver bottomless ewer that remains the oldest international sporting trophy.
The company's portfolio of trophies includes the Premier League trophy, the ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy, and various awards for Royal Ascot, a relationship that began with the first Gold Cup in 1842. Additionally, Garrard's craftsmanship reached the silver screen when they produced the cubic zirconia prop-necklace for the 1997 film Titanic, as well as a real sapphire and diamond version worn by Celine Dion.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1722 (London) |
| Founder | George Wickes |
| Crown Jeweller Tenure | 1843 – 2007 |
| Key Locations | Albemarle Street, Mayfair, London |
| Notable Trophies | America's Cup, ICC Cricket World Cup, Premier League |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the founder of Garrard?
Garrard was founded by George Wickes, a skilled silversmith who entered his mark in Goldsmiths' Hall in 1722 and established his business in London.
How long was Garrard the official Crown Jeweller?
Garrard served as the official Crown Jeweller of the United Kingdom for over 160 years, from their appointment by Queen Victoria in 1843 until 2007.
What is the significance of the America's Cup in Garrard's history?
Created by Garrard in 1848, the America's Cup is the oldest international sporting trophy and is an ornate sterling silver bottomless ewer.
Which famous royal engagement ring did Garrard create?
Garrard created the sapphire engagement ring given to Lady Diana Spencer in 1981, which is now worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales.
Does Garrard still have a relationship with the British Royal Family?
Although they are no longer the official Crown Jeweller, Garrard still holds a royal warrant from King Charles III, issued during his time as the Prince of Wales.