The business was founded in 1860 by Josiah Hancock, initially offering a clock-winding service during the city’s cotton boom. It later moved from its first Piccadilly location to King Street, where it has remained for more than a century.

Owner Roy Lunt said: “Jewellery styles may evolve, but our commitment to quality, service and beauty never changes. Celebrating 165 years of heritage in Manchester is a moment of immense pride for the entire team.”

Hancocks has sold hand-selected diamonds, coloured gemstones and bespoke jewellery to generations of customers in Greater Manchester and beyond.

Its collection reflects changing design eras, from 1950s gem-set pieces to 1970s abstraction and today’s focus on high-quality stones such as emeralds, rubies and sapphires.

The company is recognised as a specialist in diamonds and precious stones, serving clients across the UK and overseas.

Recognised globally as one of the “most important” Native American jewellers working today,  Sonwai will be creating a limited number of pieces for Hancocks London, with the  first, a vibrant 18ct yellow gold cuff bangle, launching as the jeweller’s Jewel of the Month for June. 

Entirely handmade in her Arizona studio, the cuff is inlaid with a mosaic of turquoise, lapis lazuli, sugilite, spiny oyster shell, and rosarita. The interior is etched “For Hancocks”, underscoring the exclusivity of this significant partnership. 

Sonwai began her career in the 1960s, working alongside her uncle, Charles Loloma, a “legendary” figure in Native American jewellery and widely regarded as the most collectible Native American jeweller of the 20th Century. 

Today, she continues his legacy, combining traditional Hopi aesthetics with “bold”, “contemporary” design  and her lapidary work.

Sonwai’s work can be found in major museum collections and is sought after worldwide. She is known for creating only for private collectors and carefully selected galleries.

Further pieces from Sonwai’s studio will be released exclusively through Hancocks London over  the next year. 

Amy Burton, creative director of Hancocks London, said: “We are incredibly honoured to be working with Sonwai. Her jewellery is more than beautiful—it is powerful, sculptural, and deeply rooted in cultural identity. Each piece tells a story and is created with such precision, thought and artistry. 

“To have her crafting jewels for Hancocks London is an exciting and important moment, not only for us but for our clients as well as collectors and connoisseurs alike.” 

The new offering allows customers to create a unique and personal ring, tailored to their vision, whether online or in-store with expert guidance from the Hancocks team.

Customers can also explore a vast array of styles, cuts, and precious metals, along with ethically sourced diamonds that are GIA-certified and custom engraving, to craft a “one-of-a-kind” engagement ring.

Additionally, the service is available for engagement rings, anniversary gifts, or any bespoke piece of jewellery.

Founded in 1860, Hancocks Jewellers is Manchester’s oldest independent jeweller and a renowned purveyor of fine diamonds and handcrafted jewellery.

Roy Lunt, owner of Hancocks Jewellers, said: “At Hancocks, we have always believed that jewellery should be as unique as the individual wearing it.

“With our ‘Design Your Own Engagement Ring’ service, we are giving our customers the opportunity to create something truly personal—an heirloom that will be cherished for generations. Whether it’s an engagement ring, a statement piece, or a meaningful gift, we are here to bring every vision to life.”

The new collection was introduced after the brand received requests and feedback from many same sex couples. 

The ‘His and His’ and ‘Her and Hers’ collections are crafted with meticulous attention to detail and using the finest materials.

The ‘His and His’ collection showcases a range of masculine designs, from “bold and contemporary” to “classic and elegant”. 

Similarly, the ‘Her and Hers’ wedding ring collection offers a diverse selection of “feminine styles”. 

Hancock Jewellers said: “Designed to celebrate the unique bond between two people, the ‘His and His’ and ‘Her and Hers’ collections feature stunning rings that complement each other perfectly while maintaining distinct styles.

“Each ring is a statement of “individuality, while also complementing the partner’s ring in the pair.” 

The manchester-based company scooped the award at a ceremony on 14 November at the Mercure Piccadilly Hotel, with more than 100 businesses from across the country in attendance to celebrate the occasion.

After thousands of nominations, the English public voted on their favourites to decide who would be crowned the “best of the best”. Those who voted were asked to select nominees who are a “true embodiment of quality and excellent customer service”.

Amanda Slater, wedding ring buyer at Hancocks, said: “As a jeweller [which] specialises in wedding jewellery for both men and women, we were both thrilled and shocked to be recognised at the very first English Wedding Awards. It meant the world to us that we were even nominated.

“We are incredibly grateful for everyone who voted for us; it shows we are a fantastic business that cares about its customers and providing an excellent service.”

Split into nine regions across the UK, the first English Wedding Awards is aimed at celebrating local businesses that go above and beyond to make a couple’s special day even more unique.