5 Old High-End Jewellery Brands still in Operation

Many jewellers that we know as high-end today started with humble beginnings but made their names by creating classic, elegant and timeless styles. We’ve put together five of the oldest, high-end jewellery brands that continue to maintain a strong presence for men and women around the world with their fantastic jewellery designs.

Bulgari

Known worldwide for their architectural metalwork with their use of coloured gemstones and diamonds, Bulgari is a luxury Italian brand famous for watches, jewellery, fragrance and hotels. Founded by Sotirios Bulgaris in 1884, the company grew throughout the 20^th Century to become a truly iconic brand. Elizabeth Taylor was widely known for her love of Bulgari jewellery and had an extensive range of diamond and gem pieces that were custom made, all of which were displayed during Bulgari’s 125^th anniversary expedition.

Cartier

Cartier was founded by French jewellery designer Louis-Francois Cartier in 1847. Over the next 100 years, the design house at Cartier grew to become one of the world’s most luxurious jewellers with locations across the globe and headquarters inParis. Cartier is well-known for its classic designs and use of expensive gemstones and precious metals. The world’s Royals often use Cartier jewellery for coronations and state occasions, and customers have included King Edward VII ofEnglandand Princess Grace ofMonaco, for example.

Hermes

Another famous French brand, Hermes was founded inParisin 1837 by designer Thierry Hermes. Over the next 100 years, Hermes quickly became a worldwide luxury retailer selling high-end goods, including jewellery, bags, scarves and fragrances. Designing and selling of jewellery at Hermes first took place in the 1950s, when their jewellery collection included pieces made from leather and enamel to pure gold and diamond. Hermes has been a firm favourite amongst cultural icons like Grace Kelly and Jane Birkin and has gained accreditation for rejecting mass production.

Tiffany & Co

Tiffany & Co was founded in New Yorkin 1837 by Charles Lewis Tiffany. It’s humble beginnings started as Tiffany, Young & Ellis, but its name changed to Tiffany & Co in the early 1850’s when it expanded to Parisand London. Tiffany & Co became a true iconic brand during the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods of the early 20^th century, when they sold their famous diamond and platinum solitaire engagement rings. Tiffany is famous for its beautiful range of jewellery including bracelets, necklaces, earrings and pins and is a favourite amongst many iconic celebrities.

Blancpain

Jehan-Jacques Blancpain founded the Blancpain brand in 1735, when he set up his first workshop on the upper floor of his house. Now the world’s oldest watchmaking brand that is still in operation, Blancpain continues to innovate top of the range watchmaking. The company has never produced quartz watches and has never produced watches with digital displays. In comparison to watchmaker Rolex, who make around 2000 watches every day, Blancpain produces fewer than thirty, all of which are made by a single watchmaker, making the brand truly rare and unique.

At Cuttings the Jewellers in Kent, we stock a wide range of jewellery made by some of the most unique and classic brands. For more information or to talk to a member of the team, get in touch today via our contact page.