Our Story

OUR STORY

Hi, I’m Karen, the designer behind GIST JEWELLERY. My journey into the world of jewellery wasn’t a straight path—it was filled with unexpected twists and lots of creativity.

I began my career in the bridal industry, designing bespoke headpieces and creating crystal bouquets for brides. After winning a few awards, word spread, and before long, friends and family were asking me to create custom jewellery pieces, “just a wee pair of earrings,” “Gist a necklace,” or something special to complement their look. One day, while having a laugh with my mum at a wedding fayre, I had a bag of jewellery that I casually tossed to the side, saying, "Oh, it’s Gist Jewellery." (I’m Scottish, after all!)

When we tossed that bag aside, little did I know that this lighthearted comment back in 2015 would soon become the foundation of a brand.

The name "GIST" stuck with me because of its powerful meaning—the essence, the core of something important—and the playful nod to the Scots language. It perfectly encapsulated the philosophy behind my jewellery: each piece is crafted to capture the essence of personal style, individuality, and elegance.

From then on, GIST JEWELLERY evolved into what it is today, a Scottish handcrafted brand, proudly stocked in shops, boutiques, galleries, museums, and catalogues across the UK and Ireland, from the bustling streets of London to the serene beauty of the Highlands and Islands. 

What began as a fun idea at a wedding fayre has now blossomed into a brand dedicated to creating jewellery with meaning, purpose, and a lot of heart.

Professional jewellery designer in studio office