Jewellery Transition From Death to Life

Chased two-colour gold brooch set with carved amethysts in the form of a fruiting mulberry with an enamelled gold ladybird on one leaf. The mulberries are carved on the upper side only.

Stages of mourning are the steps towards reappearance in society. Each stage has its rituals to enable respect and memory for the departed one. These reflect the values of a family and those of an individual within a respective society. If that person was in mourning in England and moved to a foreign country, then… Continue reading Jewellery Transition From Death to Life

French Saint Esprit Dove Necklace

During the Rococo period of the 18th century, much of the most ornate and elaborate jewellery was created. Rococo as a popular style began c.1730 in Paris and flourished well into the 1780s, built upon the skills of master jewellers from Spain to Russia. Access to gems was another reason why the style was so popular,… Continue reading French Saint Esprit Dove Necklace

A Mourning Tour: The Georgian “REGARD” Brooch

Acrostic sentimental stickpin with woven hair.

Jewellers and goldsmiths who had a close proximity to the crown benefitted from the attention and fame that their patronage would bring. These are the agents of change which can define the direction of fashion and art, resonating through a society and changing symbolism and identity. The late 18th century began a uniform of change… Continue reading A Mourning Tour: The Georgian “REGARD” Brooch

The Georgian “REGARD” Brooch

Jewellers and goldsmiths who had a close proximity to the crown benefitted from the attention and fame that their patronage would bring. These are the agents of change which can define the direction of fashion and art, resonating through a society and changing symbolism and identity. The late 18th century began a uniform of change… Continue reading The Georgian “REGARD” Brooch