Hatton Garden
A gold trader in 1930’s Hatton Garden.
Hatton Garden is a historic district located in the Holborn area of London. It’s known as the centre of London's jewellery trade and has a rich history dating back several centuries.
Hatton Garden takes its name from Sir Christopher Hatton, a prominent figure during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I in the late 16th century. Sir Hatton was a courtier and politician who owned land in the area, which eventually became known as Hatton Garden.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Hatton Garden became a popular residential area, attracting wealthy merchants and tradespeople. Many elegant townhouses and terraces were built during this period, showcasing the Georgian architectural style. The area also had some commercial activity, including shops and businesses.
The transformation of Hatton Garden into a renowned jewellery district began in the 19th century. The Royal Exchange, a centre for financial and commercial transactions, was relocated in 1844, leading to the relocation of the diamond and jewellery trade from the City of London to Hatton Garden. The proximity to the financial hub and the establishment of the Hatton Garden railway station in 1862 further facilitated the growth of the jewellery industry in the area.
Hatton Garden, also known as ‘The Garden"‘ became synonymous with the diamond and gemstone trade in London. The district attracted a large number of skilled craftsmen, gem dealers, diamond cutters, and jewellery retailers from all over the world. The London Diamond Bourse, the only actual diamond trading floor in Britain, has its headquarters in Hatton Garden. Over the years, it has become a hub for buying and selling precious stones and high-end jewellery.
Hatton Garden has witnessed several significant events in its history. During World War II, many buildings in the area were damaged or destroyed due to bombing raids. The post-war period saw a revitalisation of the district, and the jewellery trade continued to thrive. In more recent times, Hatton Garden gained international attention in 2015 when a group of ageing criminals executed a high-profile heist, stealing millions of pounds worth of valuables from the Hatton Garden Safe Deposit Company.
The Hatton Garden area began to falter in the 1970s and 1980s when gold prices were fluctuating and mass manufacturing moved to Asia for its lower labor costs. In recent years, after the a high level of decline due to rising rents and taxes, the district has undergone some changes, including redevelopment projects to modernise buildings and improve infrastructure. Nonetheless, Hatton Garden's historical significance and its association with the jewellery trade remain firmly rooted in the district's identity.
Things in The Garden may never return to their earlier glories, but there are a group of retailers and designers who are breathing new life into the area, with a future based on providing the customer with original design, premium quality British craftsmanship and a luxury retail experience. ‘Daniel Seller - bespoke jeweller’
Karin X