Business History & Profile

Tony Jehu, proprietor of Ascot Goldsmiths, relocated into the local area as a youngster when his family transferred to Crowthorne for his father's research work at the Transport & Road Research Laboratory. After completing his education at Edgbarrow School and Bracknell College, he initially embarked on a career in personnel management and industrial training before setting off to travel overland across West and East Africa.

During his travels across mineral-rich African regions, Tony developed a deep fascination for gemstones and learned the art of lapidary, polishing precious gems for export. His interest led him into prospecting and mining for emeralds in Central Africa.

Tony Jehu
Proprietor

London Training & Diamond Credentials

Upon returning to the UK, Tony dedicated five years to studying at the prestigious Sir John Cass College in London to master the practical craftsmanship of the professional goldsmith and manufacturing jeweller.

To further develop his diamond expertise, he was accepted to train at the renowned Sir Harry Oppenheimer Diamond Training School in Johannesburg (founded by the De Beers family). Further advanced qualifications followed at the Diamond Education Centre in Johannesburg and the International Gemological Institute in Antwerp.

This led to Tony being granted a Rough Diamond Dealers Licence by the South African Government, authorizing direct diamond purchases from prospectors across Northern Transvaal.

Ascot Goldsmiths Today

Returning to Ascot, Tony purchased the freehold premises at 2 Course Road from which Ascot Goldsmiths operates today. He is a member of the National Association of Goldsmiths, the British Jewellers Association, the London Diamond Bourse, the International Federation of Diamond Bourses, and the Antwerp Diamantkring, enjoying international recognition as a Registered Antwerp Diamond Trader.

Today, after more than 30 eventful years in the industry, Tony continues to offer personal, expert service in polished diamonds, bespoke jewellery creation, valuations, and international investment advice.