1. Brand Overview / Why Clogau Matters

In 1923, Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon (later Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother) chose Welsh gold from the [Clogau St David's mine] for her wedding ring to Prince Albert (later King George VI). This single choice started a royal tradition spanning over a century—every British royal bride since has worn Welsh gold wedding rings, including Princess Diana, Catherine Princess of Wales, and Meghan Duchess of Sussex.

At OD's Jewellers, Clogau represents rare metal heritage connecting monarchy to milestone moments. Every piece contains a trace of authentic Welsh gold from the historic St David's mine in North Wales—making each design part of a living legacy that intertwines craftsmanship, provenance, and royal symbolism.

Perfect for:

• Those seeking jewellery with royal provenance and British heritage
• Engagement and wedding jewellery buyers wanting pieces with story and meaning
• Welsh pride collectors celebrating national identity
• Milestone gift-givers (anniversaries, graduations, significant birthdays)
• Customers valuing heirloom potential over fashion trends

What makes Clogau different:

• 1923 Queen Mother wedding ring: Started the unbroken royal tradition
• 1854 St David's mine discovery: UK's most prolific domestic gold source (80,000 ounces until 1911)
• 1998 mine closure: Existing stockpiles increasingly precious as mining ceased
• Eight royal brides: Unbroken tradition from 1947 (Queen Elizabeth II) to 2018 (Meghan)
• Ben Roberts family-run since 2007: Still family ownership preserving Welsh heritage

2. The Clogau Story (History & Heritage)

The St David's Mine (1854–1998)

The Clogau St David's mine was discovered in 1854 in Bontddu, North Wales. Operating until 1911, it produced around 80,000 ounces of gold—making it the UK's most prolific domestic gold source.

Though commercial mining ceased in 1911, the mine remained symbolically significant for its connection to British royalty and Welsh national identity.

The Royal Connection (1923)

Welsh gold's association with the British monarchy began in 1923, when Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon (later Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother) chose Welsh gold from the Clogau St David's mine for her wedding ring to Prince Albert (later King George VI).

This started a royal tradition continuing today:

Royal brides who have worn Welsh gold wedding rings:

• Queen Elizabeth II (1947)
• Princess Margaret (1960)
• Princess Anne (1973)
• Princess Diana (1981)
• Camilla, Queen Consort (2005)
• Catherine, Princess of Wales (2011)
• Meghan, Duchess of Sussex (2018)

Eight generations of royal brides—an unbroken tradition spanning over a century.

Clogau's Modern Story (1989–Present)

Clogau's modern story began in 1989, when William Roberts rediscovered the abandoned St David's Gold Mine in Bontddu, North Wales. After several years of small-scale mining and careful stockpiling, the first jewellery collection launched between 1992 and 1994, marking the rebirth of Welsh gold in contemporary fine jewellery.

1998 – Mine Closure: The mine itself closed in 1998, making existing stockpiles increasingly precious.

2007 – Ben Roberts Appointed Managing Director: William's son Ben Roberts continues the family legacy, ensuring Welsh gold heritage persists through careful stewardship of remaining stockpiles.

Today

Still family-run, with Ben Roberts maintaining Welsh identity. Clogau includes a trace of Welsh gold in every qualifying piece to preserve heritage. The mine's 1998 closure makes each piece part of finite, irreplaceable history.

3. Craftsmanship & Innovation

Metals & Construction

Sterling Silver (Rhodium-Plated): Base metal for most collections, finished with rhodium plating for tarnish resistance and lustrous shine.

9ct and 18ct Gold: Fine jewellery pieces enriched with rare Welsh gold.

Mixed Metal Designs: Rose gold warmth combined with white metal brightness for modern versatility.

Welsh Gold Trace: Every qualifying piece contains authentic Welsh gold from St David's mine stockpiles—certified by the Welsh Dragon hallmark and "CG" stamp.

Diamonds

Clogau uses natural, conflict-free diamonds sourced under strict ethical standards.

Quality: Varies by collection, with many pieces featuring near-colourless stones (G–H colour range) and eye-clean clarity (SI1 or better).

Compose Bridal Range: Larger diamonds (0.30 carats and above) include GIA certification for complete transparency.

Gemstones

All gemstones are natural unless clearly stated otherwise. Traditional heat treatments may be used to enhance colour or clarity—standard industry practice for durability and beauty.

Pearls

Cultured freshwater or saltwater pearls, responsibly sourced and individually selected for lustre, surface quality, and character.

Ethical Sourcing

Clogau adheres to the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme and World Diamond Council System of Warranties, guaranteeing conflict-free diamond sourcing and responsible materials throughout the supply chain.

Design DNA

Clogau's collections draw deeply from Welsh heritage:

• Tree of Life®: Symbolising growth, renewal, and interconnection
• Welsh Dragon: The national emblem of Wales
• Daffodil & Celtic motifs: Celebrating Welsh identity
• Royal regalia influences: Like the Signature Button collection inspired by Prince Edward's Investiture

Mixed metal tones create warm, wearable luxury suited for both everyday wear and special occasions.

4. Clogau in Culture & Events

Royal Tradition

Welsh gold from the St David's mine has been chosen for royal wedding rings for over a century. This connection elevates Clogau beyond jewellery into British cultural heritage—worn by queens, princesses, and duchesses across eight generations.

The unbroken royal tradition since 1923 cements Welsh gold's place in British national identity.

Celebrity Endorsement

Gethin Jones (Brand Ambassador since 2015): TV presenter fronted Clogau's national Christmas advertising campaign in 2024, showcasing the brand's storytelling approach—jewellery that marks life's most meaningful moments.

Press Coverage

Country Life (April 2025): Reported that newly mined Welsh gold coins sold at auction for over £20,000 each—more than 8.5 times the spot price of gold—highlighting the enduring rarity and prestige of Welsh gold.

Hello! Magazine: Regularly features Clogau in royal wedding coverage, cementing the brand's association with British royal tradition.

Industry Recognition: Brand of the Year awards at the UK Jewellery Awards.

Design Heritage

The Signature Button collection draws direct inspiration from the coronation regalia used during Prince Edward's Investiture as Prince of Wales in 1911, creating a tangible link between contemporary jewellery and royal pageantry.

Cultural Status

Clogau sits at the intersection of Welsh national identity and British luxury culture—a rare combination of provenance, prestige, and accessible pricing.

UK Presence

Available through authorised jewellers nationwide. [OD's Jewellers] is your trusted local Clogau stockist, offering authenticity guarantees, full brand warranty, and expert guidance on every piece.

5. Size Guides

For comprehensive ring, bracelet, and necklace sizing guidance, see our [Master Jewellery Size Guide].

Clogau-Specific Notes:

Ring Sizing: Clogau rings follow standard UK sizing. Visit [OD's Jewellers] for free professional sizing—we measure on exact shank profile and record measurements for future orders or resizing.

Bracelet Fit:

• Chain bracelets: Add 1–1.5 cm to wrist measurement
• Charm styles: Add 2 cm for drape

Necklace Lengths: Princess length (18"/45cm) at collarbone is most versatile for pendants.

6. Care & Warranty

Clogau-Specific Care

Rhodium Re-Plating: White gold and silver pieces feature rhodium plating for bright white colour. Plating naturally wears over time—professional rhodium re-plating every few years restores original brilliance.

Expected lifespan: 1–3 years with daily wear before re-plating needed.

Rose Gold Patina: Rose gold naturally darkens slightly over time—this is normal patina, not a defect. Some customers love the aged warmth; others prefer professional polishing to restore original tone.

Pearl & Enamel Care:

• Wipe pearls after each wear
• Avoid all acids, perfumes, and cosmetics on pearls
• Never use ultrasonic cleaners on pearls or enamel

For universal jewellery care principles, see our [Jewellery Care Hub].

7. FAQs

Does every piece contain Welsh gold?
Yes—every qualifying piece contains rare Welsh gold, certified by the Welsh Dragon hallmark and "CG" stamp. (Note: keyrings and accessories may not contain gold.)

Is it solid Welsh gold?
No—due to extreme scarcity, a small symbolic amount is blended with sterling silver or 9ct/18ct gold. This approach preserves Welsh gold supplies while keeping Clogau jewellery accessible and affordable.

When was Welsh gold last mined?
The Clogau St David's mine closed in 1998. Current pieces use carefully stewarded stockpiles from decades of mining. In 2025, small amounts have been newly extracted by Alba Mineral Resources, but supplies remain extremely limited.

Are all diamonds natural?
Yes, Clogau primarily uses natural diamonds. Any lab-grown stones are clearly labelled and distinguished.

What quality are Clogau diamonds?
Quality varies by collection. Many pieces feature near-colourless (G–H) and eye-clean clarity (SI1+). Larger diamonds (0.30ct and above) in the Compose bridal range include GIA certification.

Do you use conflict diamonds?
No—Clogau complies with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme and World Diamond Council System of Warranties, guaranteeing conflict-free diamonds.

How do I register my warranty?
Register at www.clogau.co.uk/warranty within 30 days of purchase for full 2-year coverage. You'll need proof of purchase. Failure to register within 30 days reduces warranty to 1 year.

Can OD's resize my ring or adjust my bracelet?
Yes—we handle all Clogau adjustments, resizing, chain shortening/lengthening, and refinishing in-store. Professional sizing ensures Welsh gold integrity is preserved during alterations.

Why does my white gold look yellowish?
Rhodium plating has worn, revealing the natural warm tone of white gold beneath. This is normal wear—professional rhodium re-plating restores bright white colour. OD's coordinates re-plating services (typically required every 1–3 years with daily wear).

8. Why Choose Clogau at OD's Jewellers

Official, Authorised Stockist

Guaranteed authenticity and full manufacturer warranty. We never stock grey-market or counterfeit Clogau.

Local Expertise

We explain Welsh Dragon hallmarks and heritage context clearly. Our team understands the royal tradition and can guide you through collection choices.

Precise Fit Service

Measured on exact shank profile, records kept for future sizing. Free professional ring sizing eliminates guesswork.

Annual Clean & Check

Maintenance to keep pieces pristine. We inspect clasps, settings, and plating condition.

Gift Services

Luxury packaging, anniversary consultations. Clogau makes unforgettable milestone gifts.

Direct Warranty Management

We handle Clogau warranty claims and registrations in-house, coordinating with the brand on your behalf.

Family-Run Trust

30+ years jewellery expertise from owner and team. We're here before, during, and after your purchase.

St Helens Convenience

41 Barrow Street, WA10 1RY | Monday–Saturday 9:00am–5:30pm

9. Links & Authority

Official Resources:

• Clogau Official Website
• Clogau Warranty Registration
• Compose by Clogau (Bridal Range)

Heritage & Authentication:

• Welsh Gold – Wikipedia
• Clogau Gold Mine – Wikipedia

Press Coverage:

• Country Life: Welsh Gold Coins Sell for £20,000 (April 2025)
• Hello! Magazine: Royal Wedding Rings Secrets

Ethical Standards:

• Kimberley Process Certification Scheme

Shop at OD's:

• [OD's Jewellers – Clogau Collection]
• Contact OD's Jewellers
• Visit: 41 Barrow Street, St Helens, WA10 1RY