Mappin & Webb

For over two centuries, Mappin & Webb has been one of Britain’s most renowned silversmithing and luxury retail brands.

The company's origins date back to 1775 when Jonathan Mappin established a silver workshop in Sheffield, a key centre of the English silver industry. His craftsmanship quickly gained recognition, and his son, Joseph Mappin, later joined the business, primarily working as an engraver. After Joseph’s passing, his sons took over and renamed the firm Mappin Brothers.

The company expanded significantly in the mid-19th century. In 1846, Mappin Brothers opened its first London showroom at 15 Fore Street, marking the beginning of its rise as a major British silver retailer. However, in 1850, John Mappin, one of Jonathan Mappin’s grandsons, left the firm to establish his own business. In 1862, he partnered with his brother-in-law, George Webb, leading to the formation of Mappin & Webb. A new flagship store was opened on Oxford Street, and the brand’s reputation flourished.

By the late 19th century, Mappin & Webb had become the preferred silversmith for royalty in the UK and internationally. In 1888, the firm created Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee necklace, solidifying its place among the great British silversmiths. In 1898, they were awarded their first Royal Warrant, a distinction they still hold today.

In 1902, John Mappin acquired Mappin Brothers, merging the original firm with Mappin & Webb and uniting the family legacy under a single name.

The company expanded globally, opening stores in Buenos Aires, São Paulo, Nice, Paris, Rome, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Cairo, and Bombay, reflecting its international prestige.

Mappin & Webb's influence extended beyond fine jewellery and silverware. The firm crafted the original gold Ryder Cup trophy for the world-famous golf tournament and produced silver trophies for Royal Ascot for over 70 years. Their silverware and cutlery were also supplied to prestigious hotels worldwide and were used in the first-class dining rooms aboard the RMS Titanic.

The firm’s clientele has included notable historical figures such as Marie Antoinette, Czar Nicholas II of Russia, Winston Churchill, Charles Dickens, Harry Houdini, and Grace Kelly.

Although Mappin & Webb’s Sheffield factory closed in 1971, the brand remains active today as part of the Watches of Switzerland Group, continuing its tradition of fine craftsmanship in luxury silverware, watches, and jewellery.