It’s that wonderful time of the year when everything is festive and sparkly. That means it is also time to share a few of my favourite gift ideas that I have come across this year. All of the items come from British artists and vendors and might be the perfect addition to someone’s Christmas stocking. I don’t make anything off of these, except where affiliate ads are noted.
Whitby Jet
Wonderfully elegant for all occasions, Whitby Jet became fashionable during the Victorian era. And it has a truly fascinating history. The semi-precious stone is actually fossilized wood. Monkey Puzzle trees became stuck in the seabed millions of years ago. All that time without oxygen or light, and under the pressure of layers and layers of sediment and voila! Your pieces of wood have become a stunning black piece of jet. The Victorians carried out a great deal of mining for Whitby Jet. Many of these mines have since been closed for safety reasons. Now, your best bet to find some is to head to the beaches of Whitby after a stormy night, or to buy some from a local dealer. Be sure to buy from a reputable dealer; there are lots of imitation jets on the market, some even made of coal. The Whitby Jet Store’s website is filled with info about how to spot real jet. While you’re there, pick up a gift or two. Choose from stylish earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and more in contemporary and Victorian designs. Alternatively, since Whitby is home to an annual Goth festival, opt for something on the spookier side. Bats and spiders abound.
Contemporary Coastal Art by NK Taylor
On one of the walls at my house, I have many pieces of artwork depicting various spots around the Thanet coastline where I grew up. I am always looking for more, and I fell in love with NK Taylor‘s pieces as soon as I saw them. The Margate artist’s paintings, filled with vibrant colors, are sure to liven up any corner of your home. Prints and originals are available through her website. My only problem is which one(s) to choose! At the time of writing, she is offering free postage on any prints purchased for Christmas.
Cheese
If you’re like me, it is always time to enjoy a good chunk of cheese. Luckily, the British Isles have dozens and dozens of varieties to choose from. The staff at Neal’s Yard Dairy have long been the experts on all thing cheese. Whether you want to stock up on an old favourite or try something new, they can help you find the right cheese for any occasion. But for the ultimate turophile, why not gift a subscription box? Imagine taking delivery of four wonderful varieties each month, each quarter, or to fit your calendar. Subscription boxes range from £136 to £530 per year, depending upon frequency of delivery.
Get Crafty
If there is a crafter on your to-buy-for list, they are sure to love this Swan Needlecraft Felt Kit from the National Archives. I had no idea until recently that the archives have such a wonderful online gift shop filled with all sorts of fascinating items. It’s also the perfect place to buy for a history buff; you can buy replica items from a range of eras. There are also tons of books and documents to help with genealogical research which I cannot wait to browse. Other gifts include jewellery, stationery, books, and gorgeous prints. Be sure to have a look!
These are just a few ideas for the gift-giving season. I would have included more but times are hectic and there is much to be done. However, if you own a small business, are an artist or author, etc, and have something British-made that might make a wonderful gift for someone, please drop a link in the comments and I will do my best to add them to this post.
Never heard of Whitby Jet, looks gorgeous!
Whitby Jet is beautiful, but you do have to make sure you get the real thing.