Thistle & Bess began as an antique and vintage jewelry line in Brooklyn, NY, owned and designed by Ann Arbor-area native Diana Marsh.  Diana has had a passion for collecting objects that tell a story from a young age, even winning a second grade writing contest about wanting to be an archaeologist when she grew up. While teaching elementary school in the NYC Public School System, Diana discovered a love for antique jewelry, specifically from the Victorian Era. Something about those quirky Victorians and the deep symbolism and stories behind their jewelry fascinated her. Diana decided to take that passion for collecting antique pieces and turn it into an online jewelry business. The shop name, Thistle & Bess was inspired by Diana’s Scottish and English heritage. The tough but beautiful thistle is the emblem of Scotland and Bess is for Queen Elizabeth I, nicknamed “Good Queen Bess.” As the vintage and antique jewelry business grew, Diana decided to take a giant leap and move back home to Ann Arbor, Michigan to follow her dream and open a storefront. In a market dominated by chain stores, Diana envisioned creating a space that offered the customer fresh and exciting new products, unique in artistry and quality.  A little jewel box of collected treasures. The quaint and creative Kerrytown area of Ann Arbor was the perfect community for her to realize her vision. Diana values being an active member of the community, opening a shop that acts as a gathering space for small exhibitions, workshops and events that feature local artists and products. Since opening the brick and mortar shop in 2015, we have grown our offerings, including starting our own Thistle & Bess Fine Jewelry line, designed by Diana, that is inspired by where it all began, Victorian jewelry.