A JEWELLER from Bolton said that the demand for heirlooms to be turned into ‘more modern pieces’ is high.

Francis Loughran runs the store F and S Jewellers in Blackburn Road with his wife Susan.

The business sells items of jewellery and is just one of the few jewellery shops too have an on site workshop, enabling Francis to re-create some fantastic items.

He said: “We have seen a demand for upcycling jewellery more recently and we don’t know why.

“People come in and ask if we can create something out of say, their late grandma’s ring.

“I had a woman pop in and she didn’t like the design of a sapphire and diamond ring, we worked our magic and turned it into some lovely stud earrings and a necklace, she was really happy.”

Francis works alongside fellow jeweller and craftsman Kenneth Cross and the pair have talent.

They also work with grieving families, turning loved ones ashes into keepsakes.

Francis said: “Another popular job is putting ashes into jewellery.
“We have added then to rings, necklaces and lockets by melting down the stones and adding them to the items.

“It’s a nice way to keep your loved ones near when they have passed away.”
The business was established in 2005 and moved to the Astley Bridge premises three years ago.

Francis has been a jeweller since leaving school and said he still loves his job more than ever.

“Every day is different,” he said.

“I love to see the reactions on people’s faces when we have made them something that they love, or even something as simple as re-sizing their wedding ring to help make it fit again.”

The jewellers sells a range of items including wedding rings, engagement rings and watches.

They also offer a watch repair service. 

Francis said: “We are a traditional establishment but also have some great items for sale.

“At the moment we are having a website designed so hopefully that will promote our online sales and orders. Meanwhile we are open to the public and on Facebook.”

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