From Carrbridge to the stars – they all wore Norman's exquisite jewellery
The story of Carrbridge’s role in revolutionising British jewellery design is not generally known – but that is set to change.
A superbly produced book, just published, tells the story of Norman Grant, who grew up in the village before heading south to see to ensure the fashion ‘quake that was the Swinging Sixties did not stop at music, hair and clothes.
“The social backgrounds of the two sides of Norman’s family were markedly different,” writes Jess Paterson Grant.
“The paternal side was poor but resilient and hard-working, the maternal side was rich and part of the ‘upper set’ in the Grantown area.
“From his maternal family he inherited his artistic talent. He may have seen his grandpa Charlie as some kind of role model.
“Charlie was very much the charming and charismatic Highland gentleman, stylish in his fine wool or fine Tweed expensive clothes.
“Norman looked like him and dressed in a similar fashion – except when he was at art college, of course!” The 1960s was a decade in which Scottish jewellery was felt to be traditional and dull, until a Highland lad straight from Gray’s School of Art burst on to the scene with startlingly innovative, hand-made designs in silver and jewel-coloured enamels.
Grant was soon making a living from his craft, emerging as one of the country’s most highly regarded jewellery makers and selling globally to the likes of Mick Jagger and Sandie Shaw. With John Flegg, the Strathspey prodigy founded Dust Jewellery in 1976, which became pivotal in the transformation of Scottish jewellery manufacturing.
One of their most notable innovations was the use of titanium and they were destined to become world leaders in small-scale titanium work, selling to the likes of Elton John and Billy Connolly.
With partner Mark Walker he established Grant Walker in 1986.
The world’s first specialist international jewellery consultancy influenced design in the industry around the world.
“Norman Grant, Jeweller & Silversmith”, published by the Grant family, charts the career of a man who lived life to the full, always entertaining people with his Highland humour, while combining a unique gift with hard work.
He was also to receive prestigious accolades in his time, none of which mattered more to him than the Freemanship of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths.
The beauty and originality of Grant’s designs has guaranteed them a place in many collections. One devote has amassed 35 pieces.
Mr Grant was also instrumental in organising the town’s ‘Hogmanay in the Square’ celebrations for many years.
The hardback, 60 packed with colour images, can be ordered at £35 plus p&p online here or at Grantown's Bookmark on the High Street.
