Jewellery industry mourns trailblazing North Devon founder of national brand

The jewellery world is mourning the loss of pioneering designer and silversmith Kit Heath, who founded a well-known global brand after setting up shop in North Devon.

Kit Heath Limited announced yesterday (Tuesday, September 30) that its founder had passed away on Friday, September 26 aged 69.

Kit was diagnosed with brain cancer in July and spent his final weeks at home, lovingly cared for by his wife Lizzie and their four children, Annabel, Ollie, Alex and Mimi, who were by his side throughout.

He has been described as a true pioneer in the UK jewellery industry in the 1980s, known for his charm, charisma and ‘trailblazing spirit’.

Today, operating from Millennium House in Barnstaple, Kit Heath Limited, which he set up with his sister Katie Nickell, is a renowned national and international wholesale business and custodian of the Kit Heath brand.

The company remains family-owned with a distinguished presence in sterling silver jewellery, and a legacy spanning more than 40 years.

Kit developed an early interest in metalwork and silver-smithing at school in South Devon and famously ‘recycled’ the family silver candlesticks to make original pieces which lead him to a career in jewellery.

He set out as a sales agent at the age of 18 and spotted an opportunity to create his own wholesale business; travelling the world, sourcing and importing from the Far East and at a time when few others dared.

Supported by his sisters Francesca and Katie and at that time with his late brother Stevie in the jewellery workshop, he travelled around the South West in his campervan and sold into gift shops and jewellers, enjoying the surf when he could.

When the family moved to North Devon, Carol Anne Jewellers in Barnstaple became his first customer in the area. Five years later, in his mid-20s he bought the shop and based the business there.

Francesca took over the ownership of Carol Anne Jewellers in 2000 and continues to be a proud Kit Heath stockist today.

In 1999 the business moved into a purpose-built headquarters at Millennium House. Kit and Katie formed a partnership, creating exclusive jewellery designs, offering retail customer service at a new level and introducing the Kit Heath brand, known for its high quality and timeless elegance. Together they grew a substantial business with global reach.

In recent years, Kit had stepped back from the day-to-day running of the business, with leadership transitioning to his sister, Katie Nickell. Under her direction, the company continues to grow and evolve, while staying true to its original values and spirit.

The Kit Heath team wishes to thank the jewellery trade community for its continued support during this reflective time.

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If you would like to share a personal memory of Kit, pass on your condolences or request information on the funeral service which will be held on Wednesday, October 22, please email condolences@kitheath.com. Cards may be sent to Millennium House, Roundswell, North Devon, EX31 3TD.

There will be family flowers only, however, if you would like to make a donation to The Brain Tumour Charity and North Devon Hospice you can do so care of funeral directors WS Gayton & Son.