Our Story

A Life of Colour since 1985. Founded in London by fifth-generation jeweller Kiki McDonough, the eponymous fine jewellery brand is renowned for showcasing vibrant gemstones in timeless and wearable designs.

With a dedication to exceptional craftsmanship and responsibly sourced materials, Kiki designs exquisite jewellery to complement a modern lifestyle. Loved and worn by generations globally, her colourful creations bring joy to every occasion and are cherished as heirlooms for ages to come.

About Kiki

Kiki McDonough, the eponymous fine jewellery brand was founded in 1985 in London, UK.

Over forty years, Kiki has built a much-loved, globally renowned brand and designed a multitude of sought-after and timeless pieces. Credited for introducing gemstones to the British jewellery scene outside of the big three (rubies, emeralds, and sapphires), Kiki creates jewellery with a multitude of beautiful colours which speak to the stylish modern woman.​

One of the first women to make a name for herself in the British luxury jewellery world, Kiki has built a well-respected business on her own, with the support of a great team, whilst also juggling two sons, multiple patronages, and a social life that would tire most twenty-somethings.
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Early Influence

Kiki’s father, Robin Axford, was a fourth-generation jeweller, so Kiki grew up around all sorts of wonderful creations. When Kiki was a child, Robin would bring home various pieces to show her and slide them to her down the table like a cowboy’s beer at the bar, so handling expensive jewellery has never made her nervous.​
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Kiki’s mother, Yvonne Axford, was an important style influence, and Kiki fondly remembers a brooch she used to wear, a citrine and amethyst four-leaf clover design with diamonds, and how it glinted on her sleeveless purple shift dress as she said goodnight to a young Kiki before going out for the evening.​

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Artistic Influence

Kiki was 4 years old when her mother first took her to the ballet, and she was completely entranced. Today, the walls of Kiki’s store are decorated with signed ballet shoes of past prima ballerinas, what free time she has is often spent at the Royal Opera House, and her patronages include the New English Ballet Theatre, a company founded to champion early- stage and developing ballerinas and choreographers.​

One of Kiki's most-loved designs to this day, the Double Oval earrings, were first inspired by the Spring Fairy costume in a performance of Sleeping Beauty at the Royal Opera House. This beautiful blue and green tutu caught Kiki’s keen eye from the audience and had her scribbling the colour combination on the back of her ballet programme.

A Life In Red

It is her children Kiki has to thank for her love of Liverpool football club. After deciding to try and like football to connect with her eldest son Edward, her pretence quickly turned to enthusiasm and a true Liverpool fan emerged. If Kiki arrives at the office with a spring in her step, it is most likely because Liverpool have just won a big game. No wonder the fire opal gemstone is so prevalent in Kiki’s collections when her chosen team play in red. Kiki now counts football as one of her greatest passions, alongside the ballet.​

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