Two UK-based jewellery brands — Astley Clarke and Edge of Ember — announced this week that they’re “coming together to forge a new chapter in the world of luxury accessories”.

They said their merger “symbolises a strategic blend of heritage and innovation, setting the stage for a uniquely enhanced customer experience”.

It means Scott Thomson, CEO of Astley Clarke since 2013, will be stepping down, and Edge of Ember founder Lynette Ong will run both brands. 

The companies said Singapore-born Ong is an “entrepreneur with a strong background in finance” and brings a “global perspective, a deep-rooted passion for the industry and a desire to drive both brands forward in parallel”.

They added that rather than just merging the brands, the move “aims to create a new identity that honours the distinct legacy of Astley Clarke whilst integrating the contemporary, ethical values championed by Edge of Ember”.

Each brand will continue to operate their own consumer and wholesale channels, maintaining their distinct identities and collections, but with a centralised team “focused on shared innovation and operational efficiency”.

Markus D Lampe, CEO of owner Aeternum Holding, said: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Scott for his exceptional leadership at Astley Clarke over the past 11 years, during which he has built one of London’s most admired premium jewellery brands. 

“As we welcome Lynette, a visionary female entrepreneur, to lead both Astley Clarke and Edge of Ember, we are excited to embark on a new chapter for these two iconic brands.”