The intersection of heritage and modernity rarely finds a more impressive ambassador than 886 by The Royal Mint. Emerging as a bold extension of Britain’s centuries-old sovereign coin maker, this jewellery line revitalizes tradition while embracing sustainability and contemporary style. Rooted in a rich historical narrative dating back to 886 AD, when The Royal Mint began producing coins for Alfred the Great, 886 honours that legacy but pushes its craft into the 21st century—not by clinging to antiquated designs, but by creating sleek, wearable art informed by the cosmos.
Unlike many jewellery brands that rely solely on aesthetics or celebrity endorsements, 886 channels the ingenuity of its millennia-spanning coin-making expertise into pieces that are not only visually stunning but also conceptually profound. Instead of merely selling adornments, it offers discrete investments in wearable assets—heirloom-quality treasures that fuse story, style, and sustainability.
Celestial Inspiration Meets Sustainable Luxury
The night sky has long captivated human imagination, and 886’s Orrery collection captures this wonder with poetic precision. An orrery—a mechanical model of the solar system—serves as a perfect metaphor for the brand’s mission: to create jewellery that is both timeless and precisely crafted. This cosmic muse is reflected in striking pieces like the Shooting Star Ring and Night Sky Drop Earrings, where shimmering celestial motifs are rendered in a sophisticated palette of sterling silver and gold.
Yet, what elevates 886 beyond mere cosmic chic is its commitment to ethical sourcing. The brand’s precious metals aren’t sourced conventionally; instead, gold is recovered from recycled electronic waste, and silver is salvaged from expired medical X-ray films. This attention to sustainable practices adds depth to 886’s luxury, proving that glamour can coexist with environmental responsibility. The jewellery doesn’t just dazzle—it narrates a story about renewal and respect for the planet, aligning with the values of today’s conscious consumer.
A Contemporary Vision Rooted in Practicality
Dominic Jones, the creative force behind 886, encapsulates the ethos beautifully: the brand treats jewellery as a “wearable asset,” blending aesthetics with enduring value. This philosophy resonates in every facet—from the choice of precious metals to the minimalist designs that encourage versatility. Unlike flamboyant trends that flicker and fade, 886 designs are intended to stand the test of time, passed down through generations as cherished heirlooms.
Moreover, 886’s collaboration history is telling. Working with visionaries like Stella McCartney and cultural icons such as Elton John, the brand bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary culture, blending reverence for history with dynamic innovation. Its appeal to British talent—Ruth Wilson, Lily Allen, and others alike—cements its reputation as a label that doesn’t just follow fashion, but cultivates it with nuance and authenticity.
Exclusive Access for the Discerning Shopper
Beyond the rich narrative and ethical grounding, 886 offers practical advantages for those ready to invest in fine jewellery with meaning. Exclusive to HELLO! readers is a 30% discount valid until mid-2025, a generous window that allows time to thoughtfully select signature pieces from the Orrery collection or beyond. Whether drawn to the subtle interplay of mixed metals or the delicate shimmer of the Shooting Star designs, customers gain not just jewellery, but a piece of a story that weaves history, artistry, and conscious luxury.
In choosing 886, shoppers embrace more than adornment—they participate in a legacy redefined, where every item carries the weight of tradition with the lightness of modern values. This fusion of past and present makes 886 by The Royal Mint a standout for anyone seeking jewellery that transcends trends and speaks to the soul of craftsmanship.