Our Family Story
Three Generations of Pearl Passion
From a young gemmologist's travels in the Far East to a thriving family business in the Devon countryside — this is the story behind Pearl Gallery.
Our Journey
From humble beginnings to a family legacy — here is how passion, craftsmanship, and innovation shaped Pearl Gallery.
The Gemmologist's Journey
Trevor Ellis
As a young gemmologist, Trevor was captivated by the mystery of pearls. His scientific training led him on extraordinary journeys throughout the Far East, where he built lasting relationships with pearl farmers and mastered the art of pearl grading.
- ✓ Studied gemmology with a focus on natural pearl formation
- ✓ Travelled extensively through Japan, China, and Southeast Asia
- ✓ Built lasting relationships with pearl farming families
The Designer's Vision
Julie Ellis
Julie brought her artistic soul to Pearl Gallery. With meticulous attention to detail, she designed each piece by hand and personally threaded thousands of pearl necklaces, creating the signature aesthetic that defines Pearl Gallery today.
- ✓ Developed Pearl Gallery's distinctive design aesthetic
- ✓ Hand-threaded thousands of pearl necklaces
- ✓ Created bespoke pieces for discerning clients
The Jewellery Quarter
Building Our Foundation
Trevor opened Pearl Gallery in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, where centuries of craftsmanship tradition provided the perfect backdrop. Julie's designs came to life with the help of skilled local goldsmiths.
- ✓ Opened the first Pearl Gallery shop in Birmingham
- ✓ Hired skilled local goldsmiths for custom settings
- ✓ Built a reputation for quality and craftsmanship
The Digital Evolution
Luke Ellis
Luke recognised the potential of e-commerce and helped build Pearl Gallery's online presence. His technical expertise created a digital platform that could showcase their beautiful pieces to customers worldwide.
- ✓ Developed Pearl Gallery's first e-commerce website
- ✓ Expanded reach to customers across the UK and beyond
- ✓ Modernised business operations whilst preserving heritage
The Great Transformation
Embracing Change
The pandemic prompted a major decision. Rather than simply weathering the storm, the Ellis family chose to embrace change — closing their physical shop to focus entirely on their online business.
- ✓ Transitioned to a fully online business model
- ✓ Maintained the same quality and personal service
- ✓ Adapted traditional craftsmanship to digital commerce
Devon Dreams
A New Chapter
The Ellis family relocated to the beautiful Devon countryside, where they continue to run Pearl Gallery surrounded by natural beauty that inspires their work.
- ✓ Relocated to Devon's beautiful countryside
- ✓ Continue to serve customers with the same passion
- ✓ Three generations, one shared love of pearls
Meet the Family
Three generations united by a shared passion for pearls.
Trevor Ellis
Founder & Pearl Expert
A gemmologist by training, Trevor's passion for pearls began with scientific curiosity and evolved into a lifelong dedication to bringing the finest pearls to discerning customers.
Specialities: Pearl sourcing, gemmology, Far East connections
Julie Ellis
Co-Founder & Design Director
Julie's artistic vision and meticulous attention to detail have shaped Pearl Gallery's distinctive aesthetic. Her hands have personally threaded thousands of pearl necklaces.
Specialities: Jewellery design, pearl threading, bespoke pieces
Luke Ellis
Digital Innovation
Luke brought Pearl Gallery into the digital age, developing the online platform that allows customers worldwide to experience the family's passion for pearls.
Specialities: Web development, e-commerce, customer experience
Our Values
The principles that guide everything we do.
Quality
We never compromise on the quality of our pearls or craftsmanship.
Heritage
Honouring traditional techniques whilst embracing innovation.
Family
A family business that treats every customer like family.
Passion
Genuine love for pearls drives everything we do.
Discover Our Collection
Experience the passion, quality, and craftsmanship that have defined Pearl Gallery since 2002.