A jeweller from Yoxall has uncovered a remarkable family connection that reveals she has been unknowingly following in the footsteps of her great‑great‑grandfather — a discovery now forming the basis of her forthcoming book.
Julia Usher, founder of Ashes Memorial Jewellery, creates specialist memorial pieces using cremation ashes, hair and fingerprints from her woodland workshop. She runs the business largely on her own, crafting bespoke memorial jewellery.
Only recently did she learn that her great‑great‑grandfather, Samuel Usher, was making “gold signet and mourning rings” in the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter in 1872 — the Victorian equivalent of the memorial jewellery she produces today. She is now penning a book called ‘The Golden Link’ about the connection.
Julia, pictured above, said: “I’ve always been artistic and found my way to the Birmingham School of Jewellery in 2001 and started a Higher National Diploma in silversmithing and jewellery making.
“When I left university, I set up my own business at 21 and have been self‑employed ever since. But I had no idea jewellery was already in my family.”
Things changed when she began researching her ancestry. In the Post Office Directory of Birmingham for 1872, she discovered Samuel’s firm, Harris & Usher, which is listed under ring makers for gold signet and mourning rings, at 33 Upper Hockley Street.
The discovery opened the door to a much bigger story. Julia uncovered his role in the as a founder of the Jewellers and Silversmiths Association and the Birmingham School of Jewellery.
Julia added: “It’s almost like a work of fiction.
“I’ve uncovered a story about Samuel who was a political activist, had a rags‑to‑riches journey, and worked in the engine room of the Jewellery Quarter at its height.”
Her own career has echoed his in unexpected ways. After running a larger workshop in Burton upon Trent and teaching students, she felt the pull back to hands‑on making.
She also credits her father, Mark as a constant support. She is also helped by her husband, Mark, and her teenage daughter, Sophie.
She added: “I’ve been on quite a journey and over the past few years and realised I needed to go back to my bench. My business has evolved heavily since 2004, but I’m truer to my craft now than ever.
“My dad is my hero and idol. He goes to the Jewellery Quarter for me, helps with admin, and has just been my rock when I’ve needed him. My family are such a support too, and that has helped so much.
“It has gone from strength to strength, with wobbles along the way. But finding Samuel changed so much. It gave me the golden link.”
