Hancocks London
Historic London jewellers and sole makers of the Victoria Cross since 1849.
Hancocks London — Historic Jewellers and Makers of the Victoria Cross
Hancocks is one of London's oldest and most storied jewellery houses, founded on 1 January 1849 by Charles Frederick Hancock. In its 175-year history, the firm has received a Royal Appointment within months of opening, designed and produced the Victoria Cross — Britain's highest military decoration — and served collectors, royalty, and connoisseurs across generations. Now based on St James's Street, Hancocks continues to deal in both vintage and contemporary fine jewellery of exceptional quality.
Founding and Royal Appointment
Charles F. Hancock, a former partner of the esteemed firm Storr and Mortimer, opened his own shop at the corner of Bruton Street and New Bond Street in London on the first day of 1849. Within eight months, on 13 August 1849, Hancocks received the Royal Appointment of Queen Victoria. Many of the principal sovereigns of Europe subsequently became regular patrons — a remarkable achievement for a firm in its first year of operation.
The Victoria Cross
The most distinctive chapter in Hancocks' history began in 1856, when the firm was entrusted with the design and production of the Victoria Cross at the inception of the award. The Victoria Cross, Britain's highest honour for gallantry in combat, has been manufactured exclusively by Hancocks ever since. This is not a historical footnote — the firm continues to produce every Victoria Cross awarded to this day, making Hancocks the sole manufacturer of one of the world's most revered military decorations.
The Jewellery
Beyond the Victoria Cross, Hancocks is known for dealing in exceptional antique, vintage, and contemporary fine jewellery. The firm's inventory typically includes important signed pieces from major houses, rare coloured gemstones, and distinctive designs spanning from the Georgian era through to contemporary work. The gallery's expertise in gemstones, settings, and periods allows it to offer informed guidance to both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers of significant jewellery.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1 January 1849 |
| Founder | Charles Frederick Hancock (formerly of Storr & Mortimer) |
| Royal Appointment | Queen Victoria, 13 August 1849 |
| Victoria Cross | Sole manufacturer since 1856 |
| Current Location | St James's Street, London |
| Specialties | Antique, vintage, and contemporary fine jewellery |
How Hancocks Works
Hancocks operates from its St James's Street premises, having moved there in 2024 from its previous location in Burlington Arcade. The firm buys and sells fine jewellery, works with clients on bespoke commissions, and advises on collections. Purchases can be made in person, and the firm also maintains an online presence showcasing selected pieces. Given the caliber of the inventory — which regularly includes pieces valued in the six and seven figures — appointments are recommended for serious enquiries.
Who Should Visit Hancocks
Hancocks is appropriate for collectors of important antique and vintage jewellery, buyers seeking exceptional gemstones, and anyone interested in acquiring fine jewellery from one of London's most historically significant houses. Military history collectors and institutions interested in the Victoria Cross may also find the firm's heritage of particular interest, though the medals themselves are produced solely for the Crown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Hancocks has been the sole manufacturer of the Victoria Cross since the award's inception in 1856. Every Victoria Cross ever awarded has been made by the firm, and they continue to produce the medal exclusively to this day.
Hancocks is located on St James's Street in London. The firm moved there in 2024 from its previous long-standing location in Burlington Arcade.
Hancocks deals in antique, vintage, and contemporary fine jewellery. The inventory includes signed pieces from major houses, rare coloured gemstones, and distinctive designs spanning from the Georgian era to the present day. The firm also undertakes bespoke commissions.
Yes. Hancocks opened on 1 January 1849 and received the Royal Appointment of Queen Victoria on 13 August 1849, just over seven months later. This reflected the reputation founder Charles F. Hancock had already established at Storr and Mortimer.
Yes. Hancocks acquires fine antique and vintage jewellery from private sellers and estates. The firm is particularly interested in important signed pieces, exceptional gemstones, and jewellery with notable provenance. Contact the gallery directly for an initial assessment.
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