1. Brand Overview / Why Kit Heath Matters

Kit Heath represents the best of modern British silver design—elegant, meaningful, and wearable every day. Founded in [North Devon] in 1984 by siblings Kit Heath and Katie Nickell, the brand captures the spirit of connection, craftsmanship, and quiet confidence that defines true British style.

Every piece is crafted in **sterling silver**, often enhanced with rhodium or 18ct gold plating, blending timeless appeal with modern versatility. This is not fast fashion—it's design for life's real moments: gifting, milestones, and self-expression.

At [OD's Jewellers], we recommend Kit Heath for customers who appreciate understated sophistication and ethical quality—jewellery that speaks softly but lasts forever.

Perfect for:

• Customers seeking understated British elegance (Devon heritage since 1984)
• Those prioritising ethical quality (**AnchorCert Protect** accredited, REACH compliant)
• Gift-givers wanting meaningful symbolism (Infinity, Bevel, Coast Pebble collections)
• Daily wearers needing **rhodium-plated anti-tarnish protection**
• Charity-conscious buyers (Smart Works partnership 2024)

What makes Kit Heath different:

• 1984 North Devon VW campervan start: Kit Heath selling designs from mobile studio
• 40 years family-run (1984–2024): Siblings Kit Heath and Katie Nickell still leading
• 2024 Smart Works partnership: 500 necklaces donated, 69% employment success rate
• Professional Jeweller 2024 Silver Collection Award: Serenity Collection recognition
• AnchorCert Protect UKAS accredited: Tested free of 17 metallic allergens

2. The Kit Heath Story (History & Heritage)

1984 – The North Devon Beginning

Kit Heath began in 1984 when brother and sister **Kit Heath and Katie Nickell** launched their first silver jewellery line from North Devon—an area known for its natural beauty and creativity. What began as a small family business, with Kit selling designs from a VW campervan, has grown into one of the UK's most recognisable silver jewellery houses.

Four Decades of Family Heritage (1984–2024)

For 40 years, Kit Heath has remained a **family-run British brand**, still headquartered in Devon. Its core values—trust, opportunity, consideration, and connection—have guided every collection and partnership.

The brand's signature designs, like the **Infinity, Bevel, and Coast Pebble** collections, symbolise enduring bonds, nature, and emotion—themes that transcend trends.

Today

Kit Heath continues to win national awards and international respect for design, ethics, and craftsmanship. The 2024 "40 Years of Great British Jewellery Design" campaign celebrated four decades of continuous innovation, cementing the brand's status as a British jewellery institution.

3. Craftsmanship & Innovation

Materials & Finishes

925 Sterling Silver: Hallmarked in the UK for items 7.78g and above, ensuring purity and authenticity.

Rhodium-Plated Finish: Applied for **anti-tarnish protection** and long-lasting shine—keeps silver bright with minimal maintenance.

18ct Gold Plating: Yellow or rose gold used on selected designs for contrast and warmth.

Hypoallergenic & Safe: [**AnchorCert Protect**] accredited—tested free of 17 metallic allergens including nickel, making Kit Heath safe for sensitive skin.

Hand-Finished Detailing: Every piece retains sculptural precision through careful finishing.

Design Philosophy

Each collection tells a story—of love, friendship, or nature—through fluid lines, soft curves, and symbolic forms. Every curve is intentional, designed to evoke emotion and connection.

Gemstones & Pearls

Natural & Ethical Gemstones: Semi-precious and synthetic gemstones, all ethically sourced.

Cultured Freshwater Pearls: Each unique and individually matched for shape and lustre.

Baroque Pearls: Embraced for their natural irregularity—"perfectly imperfect" beauty.

Manufacturing Standards

• UK-based design, internationally crafted under strict ethical and quality control
• All jewellery compliant with REACH, Nickel, and General Product Safety regulations

4. Kit Heath in Culture & Events

Awards & Recognition

Professional Jeweller "Silver Jewellery Collection of the Year 2024": The **Serenity Collection** won this prestigious industry award, recognising Kit Heath's continued design excellence.

40 Years of Great British Jewellery Design (2024): Campaign celebrating four decades of continuous innovation from the Devon-based family brand.

Celebrity Endorsements

The Happiness Necklace: Designed by Katie Nickell in collaboration with HELLO! Magazine, this piece was seen on:

• Lorraine Kelly
• Frankie Bridge
• Denise Lewis

Charity Partnerships

Smart Works (2024): Kit Heath partnered with [Smart Works], a UK charity helping women into employment (supported by the Duchess of Sussex, Patron since 2019).

• Donated 500 necklaces to women preparing for job interviews
• 69% of recipients secured employment within a month
• Smart Works won Charity Awards 2017 (Social Action category)

Why this matters: Kit Heath's commitment to empowering women through jewellery demonstrates the brand's values extend beyond commerce into meaningful social impact.

Cultural Status

Kit Heath balances heritage British design with ethical modern values, combining refined aesthetics, charitable impact, and sustainability leadership.

5. Size Guides

Rings (UK ⇄ US/EU Conversion)

Open-Style Rings: Can flex by 2–3 sizes but are not adjustable—forcing the fit can cause damage.

Necklaces

• Standard length: 18" (45cm) including 2" extender
• Adjustable slider chains available on some designs
• Layering suggestion: Wear 16", 18", and 20" together for multi-length styling

For comprehensive jewellery sizing guidance, see our [Master Jewellery Size Guide].

6. Care & Warranty

Kit Heath-Specific Care

Rhodium-Plated Anti-Tarnish Protection: Kit Heath applies rhodium plating to sterling silver for long-lasting shine and tarnish resistance. While this significantly reduces maintenance, pieces should still be cleaned periodically with a soft cloth.

Gold-Plated Occasional Wear: Gold-plated finishes are designed for occasional wear to preserve plating integrity. Daily wear will cause faster wear than silver pieces.

AnchorCert Protect UKAS Accredited: All Kit Heath jewellery is tested free of 17 metallic allergens (including nickel, lead, cadmium), making it safe for sensitive skin. This accreditation meets UKAS, REACH, Nickel, and ACD standards.

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

7. FAQs

Is Kit Heath real sterling silver?
Yes—all pieces are **925 sterling silver**, with UK hallmarking for items over 7.78g.

Is the silver anti-tarnish?
Yes—each piece is **rhodium-plated** for protection and shine, significantly reducing tarnishing compared to unplated silver.

Can I wear Kit Heath jewellery daily?
Yes, but gold-plated finishes are best kept for occasional wear to preserve plating. Remove before swimming or showering.

Do Kit Heath rings come in standard UK sizes?
Yes. Sizes follow UK standard, and OD's can measure or resize as needed.

Are Kit Heath pearls natural?
Yes—all are **cultured freshwater pearls**, individually matched for shape and lustre. Baroque pearls are embraced for their natural irregularity.

Does Kit Heath use conflict-free materials?
Yes—the brand complies with the Kimberley Process, Responsible Jewellery Council, and ILO standards.

Does it cause allergies?
Unlikely—Kit Heath jewellery is **AnchorCert Protect UKAS-accredited**, hypoallergenic, and tested free of 17 metallic allergens including nickel.

How long is the warranty?
Two years from purchase. Covers manufacturing faults, not wear and tear.

8. Why Choose Kit Heath at OD's Jewellers

Authorised Stockist

Guaranteed authentic Kit Heath pieces with full manufacturer warranty.

In-Store Expertise

Styling, sizing, and cleaning advice from experienced jewellers who understand British silver heritage.

2-Year Guarantee

Full brand-backed protection coordinated through OD's.

Local Service, National Reputation

30+ years family-owned trust—you're not a transaction number, you're part of the OD's family.

Beautiful Gift Packaging

Personal service and official Kit Heath presentation at OD's Jewellers, St Helens.

Complete Collections

Infinity, Bevel, Coast Pebble, Serenity, and seasonal collections in-store.