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The History of Jewellery from Elizabeth 1 to Elizabeth Taylor
with John Benjamin
17th February 2026
Day of Special Interest
Explore four centuries of international jewellery design — showing the changing styles from the pomp of High Renaissance enamelled gold work to the glamour of Harry Winston diamonds.
The day provides a diverse and compelling range of jewellery presentations illustrated with high resolution colour images,
This fascinating presentation examines key developments in design and manufacture, including:
• The progress of diamond cutting
• The rise of Neoclassicism and Romanticism
• 19th-century Archaeological and Renaissance Revivalism
• The impact of South African diamond mining
• Art Nouveau, Arts & Crafts, and Art Deco movements
• Post-war Modernism and designs of the future
Other highlights include Cartier’s introduction of platinum jewellery as a statement of modern style and a glimpse into the legendary jewels of the Duchess of Windsor.
Schedule for the day:
10.00 – 10.30 Arrival and coffee/tea
10.30 – 11.30 Lecture 1: Jewellery from Elizabeth I to Victoria
11.30 – 12.00 Coffee/tea
12.00 – 13.00 Lecture 2: Jewellery in the 20th Century
13.00 – 14.30 Lunch (see menu choices on the Book Information Sheet below)
14.30 – 15.30 Workshop – Participants’ own jewellery identified and valued on the spot
Cartier 1912-1915
John Benjamin is a jewellery historian, lecturer, author and broadcaster. Formerly International Director of Jewellery at Phillips Fine Art Auctioneers, since 1999 he has been an independent jewellery consultant on behalf of the private client network. John is well-known from his appearances over 30 years on BBC Television’s ever-popular Antiques Roadshow. He is a Freeman of the Goldsmiths’ Company, a Court Assistant and Founder Liveryman of The Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars and in 2021 was appointed Honorary Jewellery Adviser to the National Trust.
VENUE
Cirencester Baptist Church, a large, airy, modern building and the hall is fully equipped with audio-visual aids and a hearing loop.
The Arts Society Corinium Members £62.00 each Non-Members £67.00 each
TASC members only bookings until 30th November 2025
Please indicate your menu choices and advise us of any allergies or dietary requirements at the time of booking.
HOW TO BOOK:
Email tascdsi@gmail.com to register your interest, along with your name and menu choices.
2. On receipt of an email acknowledging that a place is available, please pay by one of the following methods:
Preferably pay online by bank transfer or at your bank:
Barclays Bank: The Arts Society Corinium
Sort Code 20 68 15
Account No: 83403475
Reference: Your surname followed by DSI
OR by cheque:
£62.00/£67.00 payable to The Arts Society Corinium
Post to: The Treasurer, David Taylor (DSI), 1 Oaklands, Cirencester, GL7 1FA
Your place will only be confirmed once payment has been received.
PLEASE NOTE:
In the event of circumstances beyond our control, the Arts Society Corinium reserves the right to cancel or re-arrange this event.
A refund will not normally be given if you cancel your booking; however the booking may be passed onto another person and we will require that person’s name, email and phone number.
If you have any questions, please contact Margaret Butler tascdsi@gmail.com or phone 07809 881562.
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