Meet the Makers: Stuart from Heathergems

What’s your favourite thing about your business?

It has to be hearing the reactions of customers when they realise the jewellery is made from real Scottish heather. There’s a real emotional connection to the landscape here, and people are often amazed by the colours and the story behind each piece. It’s a joy to share a little bit of Scotland with people from all over the world.

Visitors are welcome to come and see the process for themselves at our viewing gallery in Pitlochry, where they can watch the heather being transformed from raw plant to finished gem. It’s a great way to see the craft in action and understand the care and creativity that goes into each piece.

What’s the proudest moment of your business career?

There have been quite a few! But one that stands out is when we saw Heathergems being stocked at some of Scotland’s most iconic heritage places, thanks to us working with the National Trust for Scotland. To be associated with such meaningful places and to see our jewellery helping tell Scotland’s story is incredibly rewarding.

Our business has been crafting Heathergems for decades now, and we’re proud to carry forward this unique Scottish tradition. Looking ahead, we’re as passionate as ever about the future  – continuing to innovate, grow, and share the beauty of Scotland through every piece we make.

How did you start working with the Trust?

We began working with the Trust many years ago. They were looking to showcase Scottish-made products with a strong connection to heritage and sustainability – Heathergems was a perfect fit. Since then, it’s been a fantastic relationship, and we’re proud to see our jewellery in so many of their shops.

We’re incredibly grateful to be part of the Trust’s broader mission to preserve and celebrate Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage. Heathergems is more than just jewellery – it’s a way to connect people to the landscape and give them a lasting memory of Scotland.

What’s your favourite product that you supply to the Trust, and what was the inspiration behind creating it?

One of our favourites is the Heathergems Thistle Brooch. The thistle is, of course, the national flower of Scotland, and pairing it with our unique Heathergem material makes for a deeply Scottish piece. It’s always been a popular item with NTS customers, and we love how it symbolises strength, resilience, and pride – qualities that resonate with the spirit of Scotland.

What do you love about Scotland? 

Everything! From the wild landscapes and ever-changing weather, to the rich history and culture. There’s a sense of identity and pride in Scotland that you don’t find everywhere – it’s in the people, the land, the stories. We’re extremely lucky to live and work in such an inspiring place.

What is your favourite Trust place?

It’s hard to pick just one, but Glencoe is a favourite. The dramatic landscape is unforgettable and steeped in powerful history. It’s a place that truly captures the heart of Scotland – wild, beautiful, and full of character. It’s also where I learned to snowboard, so it holds a special place in my heart for both personal memories and its natural beauty.