A Passion for Design

Catherine traces her passion for design back to a childhood crafting wood in her father’s workshop. 'I really enjoyed creating and would lose myself totally,' says Catherine.

Her jewellery business took off swiftly 22 years ago, after a UK college education and return home to Guernsey. Catherine worked hard and the distinctive Catherine Best brand developed, 'I worked like crazy and struggled to build up stock,' says Catherine. 'It made me very aware that I had to get it right first time.'

She started trading at craft fairs to build up her reputation until she could move into the beautiful old Mill in Guernsey whose studio now houses her most stunning creations, as well as being the family home.

The picturesque Guernsey mill was built in 1825 and sits at the end of a peaceful lane in St Martin's. The building is steeped in personality, with smooth curved walls that never seem to begin or end. Consisting of seven levels, the mill functioned for 90 years up until the 1930s. After the war, the Best family bought the mill and lovingly restored it, retaining the rare pink local granite, which is almost unattainable now. The early 19th century building has now been in the Best family for 50 years.

The mill's immense charm and presence means it is worth a visit in itself. "We feel so lucky to live and work in such a historic and prominent landmark. The setting is magical,” says Catherine. In 2003, Catherine's husband Paul noticed a magazine article on a windmill in Jersey and mentioned it to Catherine. They both fell in love with the building – and the rest is history.

A visit to the windmill in St Peter is the best way to appreciate the quality of the jewellery. The workshop and showroom are housed together in the granite building, which really helps with bespoke jewellery requests.

"It's not just a studio; we also hold events such as Sparkle Week, fashion and wedding shows and champagne evenings. Every time I arrive at the windmill I just think 'I love this place'".

Both mills are perfect for spending hours browsing the latest designs, and visitors clearly see that both mills are the hub of a family business that has been driven from the heart for more than two decades

‘Our friendly employees provide a personal service which is focused on providing customers with a great experience,’ says Catherine

Fast-forward and Catherine Best’s latest collection sees her passion come to fruition once more. Her blend of traditional workmanship and fashion-forward designs are part of her success, as is her love of stunningly beautiful jewels.