A Story Shaped Between Britain and Mexico

For over 30 years, Palenque has brought together contemporary British design, Mexican craftsmanship, and a deep love of artistry.

1991 - Where It All Began

The story began in 1991, when Susana and David met while travelling through Mexico, a journey that would shape both their lives and the future of the brand. Originally from Chiapas, Susana was inspired by the silver workshops, gemstones and artistic traditions of Taxco, a town renowned for its silversmithing heritage. Over the past three decades, she has built trusted relationships with skilled artisans there, relationships that remain at the heart of Palenque today.

Discovering Taxco

During their travels, Susana and David visited Palenque, the ancient Mayan archaeological site in Chiapas, where the idea for the brand was born: jewellery inspired by the natural world and Mexico's rich artistic heritage.

From Aberdeen to Edinburgh

What began as a small jewellery collection sold at Aberdeen University Student Union, where David was studying, soon grew into an independent jewellery brand.

Our First Shop

The first shop on Edinburgh's Royal Mile in 1992, followed by York in 1994 and Rose Street, Edinburgh in 1999.

1994 to Present -  A Home in York

Today, Susana designs each collection in York, drawing inspiration from the natural world, travel and the changing seasons.

Inspired By Nature

From leaves and flowers to organic textures, gemstones and the colours found in nature, these influences continue to shape Palenque's jewellery.

Craftsmanship That Continues

The collections are handcrafted in Mexico using sterling silver, gemstones and traditional artisan techniques. Many of the workshops Palenque works with today are relationships built and nurtured over decades,allowingtraditional skills and craftsmanship to remain at the heart of every piece.

Palenque Today

Still family-run after more than three decades, the brand continues to be shaped by heritage, travel, creativity and the relationships built with artisans over many years. Today, Palenque creates handcrafted sterling silver jewellery that brings together contemporary British design and traditional Mexican craftsmanship, connecting two places that have inspired the brand since the very beginning.