Mar 05, 2025
Well, we were wondering how to write this without sounding too refined. But when it comes to diamonds, there’s no such thing as simple. Walking into Queensmith in the heart of London’s famous diamond district, Hatton Garden, you immediately feel it - quality, craftsmanship, and a kind of quiet magic that turns rough stones into forever treasures.
When the Ecohardwood team stopped by, we were welcomed by the skilled team, including founder Brett Afshar, whose passion for diamonds is as unmistakable as the sparkle in the showcases. And then came the real treat - a peek behind the scenes. In the workshop, under the glow of precision lights, jewellers sat hunched over microscopes, crafting each piece with an almost hypnotic focus. Watching them at work, it was clear: diamonds are made to be perfect.
Our reason for visiting? No diamonds this time, we’ll be back for those soon! But four years ago, Ecohardwood’s herringbone parquet was laid in this stunning space. Back then, meeting Brett was the start of a partnership built on a shared appreciation for quality and craftsmanship. As a highly skilled gemmologist (DGA Dist.) and the mastermind behind Queensmith, Brett has redefined the jewellery-buying experience. With years spent working alongside luxury brands, he has perfected the art of exceptional quality and service. And with a jeweller’s precision, he knows top-notch quality when he sees it.

Queensmith founder Brett Afshar at the 98 Hatton Garden. Oak parquet from Ecohardwood in Graphite colour.
Hatton Garden, located in the Holborn district of London, is renowned as the city's historic jewellery quarter and a global hub for diamond trading. With roots dating back to the medieval era, the area was named after Sir Christopher Hatton, a favourite courtier of Queen Elizabeth I, who once owned the land. By the 19th century, it had established itself as a centre for jewellery-making and goldsmithing, attracting skilled craftsmen from across Europe. Today, Hatton Garden is home to over 300 jewellery-related businesses and nearly 60 shops, making it the largest cluster of jewellery retailers in the UK.
Since launching in 2016, Queensmith has won UK Bridal Jeweller of the Year three times at the UK Jewellery Awards and helped tens of thousands of couples partner up with bespoke engagement and wedding rings, combining tradition with modern craftsmanship. Delivering high-quality, ethically made jewellery at a fair price, just the way customers want it – the Queensmith team is on a mission to modernise engagement and wedding ring jewellery.

Stepping into the showroom today, it was great to see how well our Graphite coloured oak floors has held up. Brett only asked: “Does it need anything in high-traffic areas?” Our answer: just a quick buff and oil treatment, and it’s as good as new. Ecohardwood floors can be refreshed and oiled whenever needed - not just to maintain their durability, but to enhance their beauty even further. An extra coat of oil adds strength, depth, and richness to the wood.
Graphite colour is also a very practical choice - not too dark, not too light - making those pesky diamond dust specks less noticeable. And wood floor maintenance? Easy! A quick hoover and a gentle sweep with a bit of water or a wood-friendly cleaner, and you're good to go.

So, what else do Queensmith and Ecohardwood have in common beyond our flooring installation partnership? The answer is quality, precision, and craftsmanship - values we both live by.
Just as Queensmith’s jewellers meticulously examine every tiny facet of a diamond under a microscope, our craftsmen at Ecohardwood shape and refine oak floors, doors, and bespoke pieces with the same level of dedication and skill. We’re both makers. Whether it’s a beautifully cut engagement ring or a perfectly crafted oak floors or oak doors, our work is driven by passion, patience, and attention to detail. We don’t just create products - we craft pieces designed to stand the test of time.

Our heartfelt thanks go to Brett Afshar, the visionary Founder and CEO of Queensmith, who welcomed us into his workshop, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the extraordinary world of fine jewellery.

Queensmith, 98 Hatton Garden, London, EC1N 8NX