Workshops

Wharton Goldsmith has two purpose built jewellery workshops, based at the flagship store in St. Albans. Christopher Wharton personally oversees the running of the showroom's workshop, with his son Sam Wharton running the second workshop which supplies the Wharton branded designs to our 150 stockists across the UK. With such a wealth of skills and facilities together on one site, our experienced goldsmiths can offer a comprehensive service; whether it be repairing something old from the past or creating something new for the customer who wants to be different.

Repairs of every description are undertaken from a single soldering repair to restoring an antique piece of jewellery. The sizing of rings of all types takes place on a daily basis, usually with a fast return to the customer. Almost all of the jewellery repairs are carried out on-site enabling Wharton Goldsmith to offer a first class service.

Christopher Wharton is an Internationally recognised and award winning British jewellery designer. His designs are available throughout the UK under the brand name of Wharton to over 150 independent county jewellers. However, Christopher can still be found in his main showroom in St. Albans most Saturdays.

Each design, whether it be a completely new unique piece, or one using diamonds and gemstones from a tired piece is designed from the hand of Christopher Wharton using the traditional method of pencil and paper. The team of highly skilled goldsmiths are able to take Christopher's sketches and completely hand-make the design from the raw materials.

For a typical ring, the metal starts the process as a solid bar. After being heated, rolled and hammered into a circular shape it is formed into the desired style. At this stage, you may be asked to visit the showroom again to test the fit of the band. After hallmarking and applying the unique Christopher Wharton mark of authenticity, the metal is then refined; the diamonds are set and the ring finished, ready for collection.

So it really is worth thinking about the type of design that you would like in advance. Which metal will you choose? Will it be platinum, 18ct white or yellow gold, or even mixed metal? Would you like your ring plain or diamond set? Christopher will be able to discuss the vast array of options available to you - your only restriction will be your imagination!