A Guide to Theo Fennell Jewellery

Considered by many a British Treasure, the eponymous Jeweller Theo Fennell is revered for distinctive and artistic jewellery creations spanning the last 41 years, earning the atelier a prominent place within the luxury fashion world.

Alister Theodore Fennell was born on the 8 August 1951 in Egypt to an Army family. He was educated at Eton before attending York College of Art and the Byam Shaw School of Art, which now forms part of the University of the Arts London. His first job was an apprentice and designer at notable silversmiths, Edward Barnard, in Hatton Garden.

^{Theo Fennell - A tanzanite and diamond dress ring in 18ct gold}

^{Sold for £3,000}

In 1982 Theo Fennell opened its doors at 177 Fulham Road in Chelsea, and their location has only moved twice since then, to a premises just a short distance away at 169 Fulham Road, and most recently to Chelsea Barracks in 2022. The boutique housed the workshop and studio, as well as the gallery, which afforded Fennell the opportunity to achieve his vision of an immersive experience and bespoke service. He employed only the most masterful and skilled artisans to ensure every creation was an exceptional work of art. His flamboyant and visionary one-off designs enchanted connoisseurs and quickly became popular with discerning clientele. He was determined to create pieces that surpassed traditional norms and embodied a sense of artistic individuality, through intricate and meticulous craftsmanship.

By the 1990s the firm had gained high profile celebrity endorsements and was commissioned to design prestigious awards and trophies. They continued to grow throughout the 2000s, focusing on one-offs and launching their first opening rings, carved rings, Whip, Shaft & Phi collection, as well as portrait collections and masterworks. In 2009, Theo returned to the helm of his business following a turbulent eighteen months of conflict of opinion with stakeholders.

^{An 18ct white gold and diamond Theo Fennell 'Ampoule' pendant}

^{Sold for £3,000}

The 2010s saw the launch of the Bees & Beasties, Trumpet, and Celestial collections, and in 2021 Theo bought back the firm from private equity investors regaining control of his empire.

Over the years, Theo Fennell has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the world of luxury jewellery, which have only reinforced the brand's reputation for excellence and innovation.

Influential figures from the entertainment industry that feature amongst Theo Fennell’s most devoted customers include Elton John, Lady Gaga, Elizabeth Hurley, Naomi Campbell, Jerry Hall, Twiggy, Holly Willoughby, Joan Collins, and Madonna.

Popular Theo Fennell collections encompass the Alias, Art, Serpents, Alias Silver, Button, Papillon, Crosses, Keys and Tusks; from skull rings, bee earrings, cross pendants and bombe gem-set creations, the influence of art, nature and history is undeniable. 

^{Theo Fennell; a diamond single stone necklace, set with a round brilliant cut diamond with a weight of 0.78ct}

^{Sold for £2,000}

In 2022 he published his memoir “I Fear for This Boy: Some Chapters of Accidents”, a charming and humorous reflection of his life. He continues to live in London with his author wife, Louise (née MacGregor). They have two daughters, award winning Emerald - a writer, actor and director, and Coco, who is a fashion designer.

Theo Fennell jewellery is whimsical and theatrical with each piece symbolic of unique style and personality, a testament to wearable art that transcends time and trends to endure for generations to come.

“Seeing someone abroad, on a beach or in a big city, wearing a piece of our jewellery gives me a huge buzz. I can rarely resist asking them about it and, almost invariably, the piece is as loved as a pet and has a wonderful story about how they came to possess it. I cannot tell you the pleasure it gives me.” - THEO FENNELL

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