Chesterfield jeweller John Stevenson dies aged 80

The owner of a long-standing family jewellery business in Chesterfield, John Stevenson, has died suddenly at the age of 80.

Stevenson established John Stevenson Jewellers on Glumangate more than 55 years ago. He died on Saturday 9 May, leaving behind his wife, Dianne, and children, Polly and Ben.

The business remains family-owned, with his son, Ben Stevenson, currently leading the company. 

John Stevenson began his career as a news photographer for the Derbyshire Times at 16 before moving into the jewellery trade at a shop on Stephenson Place.

He later opened his own premises on Glumangate, which became a prominent independent retailer in Derbyshire. Although he stepped back from daily operations in recent years, Stevenson remained a regular presence at the shop.

The business focused on retail and the restoration of family heirlooms. Tributes from the local community described him as an iconic figure who helped maintain the profile of the town centre.

In a previous interview regarding the company’s philosophy, Ben Stevenson said: “A lot of the jewellery business is about trust. Whether you like what we do and whether you trust what we do – I think that’s the most important thing.”

In a 2014 commentary on his long career in retail, John Stevenson said: “My wife informs me that nowadays I must be one of the “most mature” retailers in Chesterfield. This may well be true… However, I take pleasure in reminding her that with age comes wisdom – and with great age, great wisdom!”