3rd February 2025
In the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter lies a workshop where family values and craftsmanship intertwine. It’s here that Deakin and Francis, England’s oldest family-run jeweller, has been creating fine jewellery for over two centuries.
For Managing Director Henry Deakin, the work is deeply personal, and that sense of meaning is at the heart of a unique gift to Acorns – a bespoke signet ring experience offered as an auction prize for the upcoming Acorns ‘This Town’ Gala Dinner.
The idea for the signet ring experience grew from an emotional moment that had an enduring impact on Henry.
“A gentleman came to us knowing he didn’t have long to live, after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. He wanted to create something special for his daughters – a pair of signet rings so they always had something with them to remember him by,” he says.
“We were so touched by their story that we wanted to create a truly bespoke experience for them. We arranged a time where they could come along to the factory together, stamp the rings themselves, and create lasting memories – not just by receiving the rings, but by being part of the journey.
Moments like this define what Deakin and Francis strive to deliver. “We don’t just make jewellery,” Henry explains. “We create pieces that carry memories, symbols of love and connection that last a lifetime – and beyond.”
So much of what Deakin and Francis do resonates with the memory-making that Acorns nurses strive to deliver for every family they support. Whether it’s crafting special hand casts, thumbprint pendants, or handprint family trees, Acorns nurses go above and beyond to ensure families have meaningful keepsakes to cherish at every stage of their journey – tangible reminders of precious moments spent together.
For Henry, and wife Jo, supporting Acorns feels close to home. “I’ve experienced the fear of having a seriously ill child – my son was in neonatal intensive care when he was born. It was a terrifying time,” he shares. “Sick children… it’s about the hardest thing anyone can face.”
This connection inspired Deakin and Francis to offer something truly meaningful for the Acorns ‘This Town’ Gala. “We’re delighted to support Acorns, not just because of the incredible work they do, but because it feels personal. It’s a chance to give back in a way that reflects what we stand for: care, connection, and community.”
The winning bidder of this extraordinary prize won’t just walk away with a piece of jewellery – they’ll create an unforgettable memory. From the first sketch to the final polish, they’ll be part of the journey.
It begins with a visit to Deakin and Francis’ historic workshops, where tools and techniques passed down for over 230 years are still in use. “If you don’t have a crest or design in mind, we’ll help you create one,” Henry says. “It’s a collaborative process. We’ll sit down, share ideas, and come up with something truly personal.”
Once the design is finalised, the crafting begins. The metal is stamped, shaped, and engraved with care and precision. It’s then hallmarked – a centuries-old tradition ensuring quality – and polished to perfection.
For Deakin and Francis, supporting a local charity like Acorns makes perfect sense. “We’re a 7th-generation family business rooted in Birmingham, with generations of employees, some of whom have had direct personal experiences with Acorns,” says Henry. “We believe in looking after those around us. With larger charities, it can sometimes feel like your donation gets lost, but Acorns is different. You know the support is going directly to the families who need it most.”
The Deakins are equally passionate about championing Birmingham itself. “The city has so much to offer, but it’s often overlooked. We want to show people the talent and heart that exists here.” The company is so passionate about Birmingham that they’ve evolved their branding from ‘Made in England’ to ‘Made in Birmingham’.
“We’re fortunate that, as a British-based manufacturer, we can offer these in-person experiences,” Henry adds.
As Henry reflects on the gift, it’s clear this is about much more than crafting a signet ring. “When we create something for someone, it’s almost always emotionally charged. People come to us during big moments in their lives – births, marriages, losses. It’s a privilege to be part of those stories.”
And their partnership with Acorns brings this sentiment full circle. By offering this experience, Deakin and Francis isn’t just offering a prize – they’re offering the chance to create a memory, honour a legacy, and make a difference.
Like the ring itself, its impact will last a lifetime – both for the winning bidder and in the vital care it will give to seriously ill children and their families when they need it most.