About Avanti Jewellers

Avanti established in 1982, by Alan Matkin and his brother David
Avanti Jewellers, set amidst the beautiful Derbyshire Dales, nestling in the historic Georgian market town of Ashbourne with its cobbled streets and narrow alleyways, provides its customers with an intriguing array of jewellery including “Avanti” handcrafted originals, plus classics and contemporary pieces.
For those who require something very special, Avanti offer a bespoke service, working closely with the clients, throughout the design process, starting with CAD drawn images through to the final finished product.

Ashbourne – our home for 25 years
Popular with tourists because of its close proximity to Dovedale and the rest of the Peak District, Ashbourne has been home to our business, and our family, for 25 years. And we wouldn’t want to be anywhere else! We love the town’s traditional charm, warm people, and the fact that it still boasts many small, independent retailers like us. We’re sure you’ll love it too when you visit.

Alan Matkin HRD, Proprietor
Alan has been in the jewellery trade for 30 years during which time he gained his HRD diamond grading certificate. But for the last 10 years, his real passion and specialty has been dealing in loose diamonds and crafting bespoke pieces for his wide clientele base, he is also very proud of his range of Avanti handcrafted originals, where he chooses each diamond very carefully, looking at the clarity, cut and colour and then works closely with on site Goldsmith, Ron Fairweather to ensure, that each design is unique to Avanti and continues the ethos and style that Alan has become renowned for.

Ron Fairweather, Goldsmith and Craftsman
Ron has had a varied and interesting career, learning his craft with the likes of Hector Milne and, working in London producing items for Bond street. He finally settled in the beautiful Derbyshire Dales, where he had his own workshop in Wirksworth. He has worked very closely with Alan for a number of years, but finally moved into the Workshop at Avanti Jewellers, just over seven years ago. Ron uses a rare blend of old and new techniques: traditional “out of the bench” handmade manufacturing methods, as well as modern Computer Aided Design (CAD). with Alan’s vast knowledge and expertise and Ron’s design skill, the 2 have not looked back.
Appointments can be made over the telephone 01335 348961 or via email alan@avantijewellers.co.uk to meet with either Alan or Ron.

Amanda Matkin, Accounts Assistant
I’m Alan’s wife and have been working at Avanti for over 3 years, dealing with all of the accounts. You might be served by me in the shop because I sometimes help out the sales assistants too.

Karen Hancock, Manageress
I’ve worked at Avanti for almost 10 years and have been manageress since 2006. When you come into the shop, you could be served by me, my deputy Michelle or one of our very friendly sales assistants. Before joining Avanti, I worked front of house at several major retailers, so I know all about the importance of offering excellent customer service. My first love is diamonds, so working here is a dream come true!

Michelle Turner, Deputy Manageress
I work closely with Karen and you’ll probably see me when you come into the shop. I hold a Professional Jeweller’s Diploma (JET 2) and have been in the jewellery business for over 13 years, so you should find me knowledgeable and helpful!

Karen Allen, Sales Assistant
I work at Avanti part time? and mostly serve customers in the shop. I’ve been working here for a long time so if you’ve called into Avanti during the last few years, chances are you’ll have seen me! I’m passionate about customer service and I also enjoy using my flair for window and shop dressing, any opportunity I get!

Caroline Butcher, Sales Assistant
I’m also a regular face behind the Avanti shop counter. I’m particularly interested and knowledgeable about diamond jewellery. (link) Next time you pop in, I look forward to helping you find the right piece of jewellery for you.

Sam Seargant, Sales Assistant
I’m fairly new to Avanti and have just finished a degree in Fashion (tbc). I serve customers in the shop and also help look after the website and deal with all online orders.

Bethan Keeling, Sales Assistant
You’ll see me working in the shop on Saturdays. I always aim to be friendly and polite to customers at all times and go out of my way to be helpful. Hope to meet you soon!

Call into our shop soon and meet us!