Celebrating 40 years in business, Gems Jewellers has become synonymous with quality, craftsmanship and exceptional customer service, earning the trust of customers who return time and time again for life's biggest occasions

From engagement rings and wedding bands to anniversary gifts, milestone birthdays and treasured family heirlooms, Gems has been privileged to play a small part in countless special memories over the past 40 years.

A Passion Turned Into a Lifetime's Career

The story of Gems Jewellers begins with owner Stuart Leslie, whose passion for craftsmanship started long before the business first opened its doors.

After leaving school, Stuart made the bold decision to turn down an unconditional university offer to pursue a career in jewellery, watch and clock craftsmanship.

His interest in the trade began while working as a young boy in The Abbey Gift Shop in Coleraine, owned by the late Tommy O'Kane, a highly respected watchmaker and clockmaker.

Inspired by Tommy's dedication, skill and attention to detail, Stuart went on to complete professional training in the UK, gaining qualifications in jewellery, watch and clock craftsmanship. The expertise he developed during those early years laid the foundations for Gems Jewellers, where traditional craftsmanship, quality workmanship and honest advice remain at the heart of everything the business does today.

Built on Trust and Personal Service

Since opening in 1986, Gems Jewellers has proudly served the people of Coleraine and beyond, building lasting relationships with customers across multiple generations.

While the jewellery industry has evolved over the years with changing fashions, advancing technology and new ways to shop, one thing has never changed at Gems, the importance of offering genuine personal service, expert guidance and craftsmanship customers can trust.

It is this commitment that has helped establish Gems Jewellers as one of Coleraine's most respected independent family businesses.

Celebrating 40 Years in Style

To thank customers for their incredible support, Gems Jewellers will celebrate its 40th anniversary on Saturday, 1st August 2026 with a day of special offers and exciting promotions.

The highlight of the celebrations will be the "Beat the Clock" event, where customers can enjoy discounts on selected diamond jewellery starting at an incredible 40% off, with savings reducing throughout the day.

There will also be anniversary offers available across the store, making it the perfect opportunity to find something special.

The celebrations won't end there. Throughout August, customers can take part in weekly competitions with prizes worth up to £1,000. Full details of the giveaways will be shared on the Gems Jewellers social media channels, so customers are encouraged to follow along and join in the celebrations.

A Proud Family Business Looking to the Future

While this anniversary is a celebration of the past, it also marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

Stuart is now joined in the business by his daughter Caitlin, creating a father-and-daughter team that blends decades of experience and craftsmanship with fresh ideas, enthusiasm and a vision for the future.

Supporting them is General Manager Dawn, whose dedication continues to play an important role in the day-to-day running of the business and maintaining the exceptional customer service Gems is renowned for.

Together, Stuart, Caitlin, Dawn and the wider team share a passion for creating a welcoming, personal experience for every customer who walks through the door.

Exciting Changes Ahead

As Gems Jewellers enters its fifth decade, customers will also begin to see a fresh new look.

The business has introduced a refreshed brand identity, with a new logo inspired by the original Gems logo from 40 years ago, perfectly combining its proud heritage with its ambitions for the future.

A brand-new website will also be launching soon, giving customers an easier way to browse collections, discover the wide range of services available and stay up to date with everything happening at Gems.

The business is also expanding with a beautiful new extension that will feature a dedicated consultation space. Designed with customer experience in mind, the new area will provide a relaxed setting where customers can enjoy one-to-one appointments to discuss engagement rings, bespoke jewellery, remodelling treasured pieces or choosing jewellery for life's most important occasions.

Thank You, Coleraine

As Gems Jewellers celebrates this remarkable milestone, the team would like to thank every customer who has supported the business over the past 40 years.

Many families have returned to Gems across generations, and that loyalty is something the team treasures.

Everyone is warmly invited to join the anniversary celebrations on Saturday, 1st August, enjoy the fantastic offers, take part in the August competitions and celebrate 40 years of a proud Coleraine family business built on passion, craftsmanship and creating memories that truly last a lifetime.

Congratulations to Stuart, Caitlin, Dawn and the entire Gems Jewellers team on reaching this wonderful milestone. Here's to the next 40 years!