Hancocks Antique Diamond Heart Locket Pendant circa 1860

London jeweler Hancocks is renowned all over the world for its exemplary jewels. Founded in 1849, Hancocks has grown from being one of the most prominent jewelers of the 19th century to a prestigious family-run firm that is home to engagement rings, signet rings, three-stone rings and other adornments of choice for all kinds of jewelry lovers.

Hancocks was founded by Charles Frederick Hancock in the heart of London’s Mayfair district. Then known as Charles Hancock and Company, the firm earned a reputation for excellence in providing the finest quality jewelry, silver and gemstones, and quickly drew the attention of Britain’s upper class. Queen Victoria issued them a Royal Warrant in their first year of business — the first of four. Today, antique Victorian jewelry — including the exquisite Hancocks accessories of the era — is very coveted and highly collectible. 

Ever since, Hancocks has had an impressive array of aristocratic clients and sold a large number of illustrious gems and jewels. Among the items that passed through Hancocks were the Hope Diamond, an Egyptian Revival gold and gem-set necklace gifted by Edward VII (then Prince of Wales) to his mistress, and Princess Margaret’s Cartier diamond rose brooch, which she wore to the 1953 coronation of her sister, Queen Elizabeth II, one of the most photographed women in history.

In 1851, Hancocks showed at their first major exhibition, The Great Exhibition, held in London’s Crystal Palace. Then in 1856, Queen Victoria commissioned the firm to design the Victoria Cross medal — the highest honor bestowed for gallantry in British military service. Hancocks exhibited several other important design fairs in the subsequent years, including the International Exhibition in 1862, the French Exposition Universelle in 1867 and the Vienna World’s Fair in 1873.

Charles Hancock retired from the business in the early 1870s and passed it to his two sons and company partners, Henri Dore and Horatio Stewart. From then on, the firm was known as Hancocks and Company. In later years, the name would change again to Hancocks.

Since being acquired by the Burton family in 1992, Hancocks continues its tradition of excellence from its store in London’s famed Burlington Arcade. 

On 1stDibs, discover a range of antique and vintage Hancocks rings, earrings and necklaces.