Lucky Seven Interview with: Guy Burton, MD, Hancocks of London

1. Founded in 1849, Hancocks of London carries extraordinary heritage. How does this legacy influence your contemporary engagement and wedding collections?

Our history and heritage is huge part of who we are and that heritage goes into every piece we make. From our our inception in 1849 our secret to success has been combining the finest diamond and gemstone curation with very finest hand-craftmanship, this is exactly what we do today.

2. What distinguishes a Hancocks diamond from the rest? 

We specialise in the rarest and finest antique diamonds: it is only the very finest examples of these that we buy for our collection, those hand-cut by the master diamond-cutters 100+ years ago. 

3. Wedding jewellery must endure daily wear for decades. What are the greatest design challenges when creating something both exquisitely delicate and structurally enduring?

Of all jewellery items it is rings that get the most punishment over their lifetime, especially those that are worn daily. Strength in material and design is key but having the jewellery checked annually is also paramount to its longevity. 

4. While diamonds remain iconic, have you seen growing demand for coloured gemstones in bridal jewellery? Which stones are resonating most with modern couples?

White diamonds have always been the most popular, they are also the strongest for everyday wear. Blue sapphires have been a popular second. Teal sapphires and the extremely rare padparadsha sapphires have been becoming very sought after recently.

8. Many brides are now investing in heirloom-worthy earrings, necklaces, or bracelets for the wedding day itself. How does Hancocks approach designing or curating bespoke bridal jewellery that lasts beyond the wedding itself?

Antique jewellery is very popular here and we have one of the finest collections of antique jewellery in Europe. Tiaras, riviere necklaces and pendant earrings are really popular with brides, and offer a lovely legacy investment to start a collection, hopefully for future generations to enjoy.

6. After many years of serving couples, what is the most valuable advice you offer those selecting their wedding jewellery?

I think to trust their initial reactions when trying on the bands and not to over-think it too much. For the wedding jewellery it is a good idea to choose pieces which can be enjoyed on future occasions after the wedding. A good example of this is our antique tiara collection: Tiaras are as popular today as they were at the end of the 19th century! Most of our Victorian tiaras can be converted into necklaces or other jewels that can be worn and enjoyed for all sorts of other occasions in the future.

7. What important consideration — whether practical, financial, or emotional — do many couples overlook when choosing their rings?

For wedding rings, couples might often not think about eternity rings that perhaps will be added if they are lucky enough to have children in the future. Life throws a lot of opportunities for diamonds to be added to the collection, so it’s worth bearing in mind that the ring stack might grow!

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