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Holts Gems, one of the oldest jewellers in Hatton Garden, is launching a joint venture with diamond specialists Hearts of London Group, focusing on the growing demand for coloured gemstones in personal and bespoke fine jewellery.
The new retail business will launch in the first quarter of 2019 under the Holts & Co brand, with a contemporary store refurbishment designed to “break down the boundaries of conventional retail”.
The new store and workshop will create a collaborative workspace between the designer, client and craftsman, which the Holt Gems said will allow bespoke jewellery commissions to be taken from concept to realisation all under one roof.
The jeweller said its “long history as a gem wholesaler to some of the world’s most established and recognised fine jewellery houses” will be maintained, and will be opening a separate sales office in Hatton Garden in January 2019. Additionally, the group’s workshops will continue to supply wholesale gems and provide manufacturing services to the jewellery trade.
Jason Holt of Holts Gems said: “I’m thrilled to be working alongside jewellery entrepreneur Brett Afshar to create this new chapter in Holts’ 70 year history. Holts has always been a pioneer. Starting with my father’s buying trips to China shortly after the Cultural Revolution and establishing the UK’s first Lapidary workshop.
“More recently launching Holts Academy of Jewellery – the only Further Education College for the sector. Now Holts & Co will be a hub of cutting edge innovation, meticulous craftsmanship, the finest gems, diamonds and unique customer service.”
Brett Afshar of the Hearts of London Group added: “We’re proud to be joining forces with the esteemed Holts Gems – combining our leading-edge technology, consumer insights and award-winning craftsmanship with their large scale consumer base and expert lapidaries.
“Together, we are elevating and redefining the customer experience for fine jewellery consumers by offering a truly personalised and seamless approach to handcrafted, bespoke jewellery on the high street”.
