Celebrity jeweller Theo Fennell has said demand for signature pieces and the success of its overseas expansion helped it achieve sparkling results last year.

The group, which boasts Elton John, Elizabeth Hurley and the Beckhams among its clients, reported a record seven- fold increase in pretax profits for the year to March 31.

Chairman Richard Northcott said investment in the business over the previous three years was now generating stronger profitability.

"With a largely untapped overseas market and further UK demand, the group could not be better positioned for the future," he said.

Turnover for the group rose 20 per cent during the year - from £16.2 million to £19.4 million - while pretax profits increased from £105,988 to £732,451.

The large increase was partly due to a drop in profits in 2005 after a drive to invest in the brand.

Mr Northcott said its Fulham Road store and Harrods Fine Jewellery room had an exceptional year while its Arts and Trellis ranges, both launched last year, performed strongly.

The Arts collection is made up of around 90 pieces - mainly charms and detachable pendants in the

shape of hearts including one with a set of silver horns, another with angel wings and a design featuring a skull and crossbones.

It also produces a heart pendant and a horn-shaped pendant both with a St George Cross design made from rubies and diamonds, which are proving popular as the World Cup approaches.

"The range was brought out last year but is apt now," managing director Barbara Snoad said.

Earlier this year, the group confirmed it was in talks with a number of parties to secure investment.

Yesterday, it added that talks continue but the

group will only go ahead if a deal reflects the value of the business.

Ms Snoad would not be drawn on whether talks with interested parties would result in a possible sale of the entire business or a stake.

The group, which stocks items, such as a diamond ring, costing up to £100,000, also sells a less expensive range at department store Debenhams called Tomfoolery and which continues to perform well.

The group's 14 UK stores include two stand-alone outlets in London. It is also stocked at jewellers across the country.

Shares in Theo Fennell were up 13p to 52p.