As McGowans Jewellers commemorates its remarkable 130th anniversary this year, we invite you on a journey through the decades—a celebration of enduring tradition, family legacy, and exquisite jewellery that has lit up generations. The fourth generation run family business has passed down more than just a business, but core values of integrity, hard work and compassion, and a love for helping people mark life’s most meaningful moments. From engagement rings to anniversary gifts, McGowans has been there for generations of customers, often serving grandparents, parents and now children of the same families.
Locations Through the Years
Over the past 130 years, McGowans Jewellers has proudly expanded far beyond its East End roots, bringing sparkle and service to communities across the United Kingdom.
From our original stall at The Barras to a presence on bustling high streets and in elegant shopping arcades, McGowans has left its mark on jewellery lovers throughout the country.
A small glimpse into our storefront history:
- Glasgow — Sauchiehall Street, Clarkston Toll, Bearsden, and our flagship home in Argyll Arcade
- Aberdeen — Union Street
- Nottingham, Sheffield, Newcastle, Preston — and many more
Take a look at the images below to see just some of our amazing storefronts throughout the years.
A Prime Visit: When Margaret Thatcher Stepped Through Our Doors
Among the many memorable moments in McGowans’ 130-year history, one that stands out was a visit from Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
During her time in office, Mrs. Thatcher visited Glasgow and one of our McGowans stores, taking time to meet the team. In September 1975 she commissioned a ring in ‘Design No.C with a garnet surround’ (shown in a letter below). Her visit was accompanied by a letter of well wishes and a signed picture, which we have preserved to this day.
From Market Barrow to Modern Boutique
Often described as “an Aladdin’s Cave of New and Antique Jewellery,” McGowans stores have always captivated passers-by and customers alike with vibrant displays and eclectic charm. Each window told a story, featuring rich displays of Victorian heirlooms, Pharaoh- and Egyptian-inspired designs, and carefully themed sections showcasing everything from dazzling diamonds to wedding ring windows.
In decades past, the store would offer Dinner for Two with the purchase of any diamond ring over £120—a promotional idea ahead of its time and still echoed in modern marketing strategies today.
Today, McGowans Jewellers proudly operates from two beautifully appointed stores at 4 and 41 Argyll Arcade in Glasgow, alongside an online shop delivering across the UK.
We continue to offer a carefully curated collection of new and antique jewellery, along with expert services to revive, repair, and reimagine beloved pieces from the past.
From breathtaking diamond engagement rings to richly coloured gemstones—including sapphire, ruby, topaz, amethyst, and more, every McGowans piece is chosen for its beauty, quality, and ability to tell a story.
Whether you’re browsing in-store or online, the spirit of discovery that defined our earliest days remains at the heart of every McGowans experience.
Four Generations, One Legacy
1st Generation – Mrs. McGowan
McGowans’ origins date back to the late 19th century, when members of the McGowan family began selling jewellery at The Barras in Glasgow’s East End. While the exact family links have been lost to time, this pioneering spirit set the foundation for a business built on trust, craftsmanship and care.
2nd Generation – James McCann & Jean McGowan
In the 1920s, James McCann joined the family through marriage and stepped into the growing jewellery business. Working alongside his wife Jean and her sisters Lilly and Edith, the family opened their first store on Sauchiehall Street in Glasgow’s City Centre in the 1930s. James dedicated over 60 years to McGowans, becoming a steady and respected figure in the industry.
3rd Generation – Michael & Brian McCann
In the 1960s, sons Michael and Brian McCann carried the family baton with passion and a new modern approach. Under their management, McGowans grew to over 20 stores across the UK, including their first-ever international branch in Toronto, Canada.
Michael also opened the ‘Michael James’ sister brand in the Argyll Arcade in 1984. Their era was marked by innovation and accessibility by bringing fine jewellery to more people, while keeping the McGowans charm.
4th Generation – Nicola McCann
In 1998, Nicola McCann, daughter of Michael, joined the business and became a driving force behind its future and what you see today. Taking over the reins officially in 2008, Nicola’s leadership honours the past while embracing modern retail, digital expansion and a return to the business’s boutique charm and customer-first ethos. She has overseen store refurbishments, brand unification, and the growth of an online platform, all while keeping family values at the core.
Thank you for 130 years
As we celebrate this landmark anniversary, we honour the past, embrace the present, and look forward to the future, guided always by family, passion, and the joy of sharing beautiful stories embedded in jewellery.
To our incredible customers over the years, thank you. Your loyalty, trust, and shared memories are the reason McGowans has not only endured but truly thrived for 130 years.
We also want to thank our loyal staff, past and present — some of whom have been with us for decades. Colleagues like Gordon and Margaret Todd are not just members of the team; they are part of the McGowans family. Their experience, knowledge and dedication have been invaluable, and their loyalty is a testament to how much we care for the people who care for our customers. Without them, none of this would have been possible.
Here’s to the next chapter—filled with timeless moments, meaningful connections, and jewellery that tells your story.
Make sure you sign up to our mailing list for any sales, new launches and much more!