ABOUT PARKIN & GERRISH
Parkin & Gerrish is an online destination for antique, vintage, and fine jewellery, founded in 2021 by Zuleika and Oliver Gerrish.
Zuleika Gerrish BA (Hons) FGA DGA
Originally trained as an art historian, Zuleika Gerrish is the daughter of the late art dealer Michael Parkin (Motcomb Street, 1972–1999) and artist and dealer Diana Parkin. Immersed in the arts from an early age, she built her career working with art dealers, auction houses, and advisors. She is a graduate of Wimbledon School of Art and holds a BA (Hons) in History of Art from Oxford Brookes University.
Zuleika’s journey into jewellery began in 2016 when she made an unexpected career shift. What started as a few part-time hours working for her mother-in-law, Olly Gerrish, at Grays Antiques soon evolved into a full-time passion. Under Olly’s guidance, with over 45 years of expertise, Zuleika came to view jewellery as miniature works of art. She was captivated by the intricate craftsmanship and the hidden stories behind each piece.
Her fascination quickly deepened into formal study. Zuleika is now a qualified FGA (Fellow of the Gemmological Association) and DGA (Diamond Member), and is currently training to become an IRV (Institute Registered Valuer) through the National Association of Jewellers. She is also an associate member of LAPADA and CINOA, and a member of the Society of Jewellery Historians. She continues to share her expertise as a lecturer in historic jewellery.
Zuleika is married to architectural historian Oliver Gerrish, who is also a buyer for Parkin & Gerrish. Together, they founded the business in 2021 to bring beautifully curated antique and vintage jewellery to new generations of collectors.
ZULEIKA IS PROUDLY A MEMBER OF THE FOLLOWING
“The charming thing about jewellery, especially antique jewellery, is that each piece sparks a great conversation. Whenever, I am at a party and I want to chat to someone I always spot their jewellery and ask. Perhaps their ring belonged to a beloved grandmother, great grandmother even. Or, a brooch was gifted for its special birthstone. Perhaps there is a hidden compartment within the ring... There is always a story to tell. So, let's find yours…
WE HAVE SOME LOVELY 5 STAR REVIEWS ON
The Story Behind the Parkin & Gerrish Logo
You might be wondering, “Why The Birth of Venus?”
When Zuleika and Oliver first began designing the Parkin & Gerrish logo, they turned to family heritage for inspiration. Both the Parkin and Gerrish family crests feature birds — an eagle for the Parkins and a racing pigeon for the Gerrishes. While birds initially seemed symbolic, they just didn’t quite take flight.
Then came a fresh idea.
The Gerrish family crest also includes a scallop shell, a timeless emblem of pilgrimage and journey. With Zuleika’s roots on the Norfolk coast, the shell felt deeply personal — and artistically powerful. Shells also hold a special place in the history of jewellery: associated with pearls, one of the earliest adornments worn for their natural beauty.
That led to the ultimate inspiration: The Birth of Venus.
As an art historian, Zuleika was drawn to Botticelli’s iconic depiction of Venus, goddess of love and beauty, rising from the sea on a shell. She embodies everything jewellery should celebrate — love, beauty, sensuality, and transformation.
And what could be more timeless than wearing nothing but a strand of pearls?
At Parkin & Gerrish, we hope every piece of jewellery evokes that same magic — beautifully wrapped, joyfully received, and forever cherished.