From Hatton Garden Apprentice to Diamond Empire Laurence Graff

Some of the greatest names in world jewellery began their careers on the streets of Hatton Garden, and none illustrates that better than Laurence Graff. From a teenage apprentice in London's diamond quarter to the head of a global diamond empire, his story is the ultimate example of where talent and the right training can lead. Honoured with an OBE for services to jewellery, Graff embodies the heritage and ambition of the EC1N quarter. This explainer looks at his journey from Hatton Garden apprentice to international success, and what it says about the quarter that shaped him.

From Hatton Garden Apprentice to Global Empire

Laurence Graff began his career in the jewellery industry at just 15, working as an apprentice in Hatton Garden, London's most prestigious jewellery quarter. It was here that he learned the craft and the trade that would define his life.

Today he leads a global jewellery house with boutiques across Europe, North America, Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Few careers better demonstrate how the skills learned in the quarter can carry a maker to the very top of the industry.

His rise is a powerful reminder that the apprenticeships and jewellery design and manufacture traditions of Hatton Garden can launch world-class careers.

An OBE for Services to Jewellery

Graff's contribution to the trade was recognised when he was awarded an OBE, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, for services to jewellery. It is among the highest honours anyone in the industry can receive.

Reflecting on the award, Graff spoke of his pride at receiving such recognition after a lifetime in the trade, describing how he was born to be among diamonds and how that passion runs through everything he does. The honour marked decades of dedication to his craft.

It was a fitting tribute to a man who has handled some of the most spectacular diamonds ever found, including legendary stones such as the Idol's Eye.

Fun fact: Graff has owned and cut several of the most famous diamonds in history, and is so closely associated with extraordinary stones that he has been nicknamed the King of Diamonds.

What Graff's Story Says About Hatton Garden

Laurence Graff's journey is inspiring in its own right, but it also speaks to the enduring strength of Hatton Garden as a training ground. The quarter has long given talented young makers the skills, mentors and opportunities to build remarkable careers.

That tradition continues today, with apprenticeships and workshops nurturing the next generation of goldsmiths, setters and designers. The quarter remains a place where ambition and craft can meet.

For anyone drawn to fine jewellery, Graff's story is a reminder that behind the windows of Hatton Garden lies a depth of skill and heritage found in few places on earth. The bespoke jewellery talent of the quarter is its greatest asset.