Downton to Gatsby: Jewellery and Fashion from 1890 to 1929

This lecture offers a unique behind-the-scenes perspective on the artistry and historical significance of jewellery in period drama, blending Andrew’s personal experiences with a broader exploration of the era’s luxurious craftsmanship and fashion.

For the series and film Downton Abbey, Andrew was commissioned to make many jewels for the main characters. This inspired him to create a talk about his involvement with the production, as well as describing the unique period within which the production was set. Clothes and jewellery are often seen as two entirely separate and distinct fields of design, but this is very far from the case. Andrew illustrates the close relationship between them, as well as highlighting the many clients and patrons who ordered such magnificence.

In this lecture, Andrew talks about his involvement in the series and film, together with guiding you through the extraordinary decades and events between 1890 and 1929, where the great couturiers collaborated with the finest of jewellers to produce gowns and jewels of outstanding quality and glittering opulence. Along with this, Andrew will bring many of the actual jewels that he made for the film and series for you to see up close.

Tickets £15 – THIS EVENT IS NOW FULLY BOOKED.
Tickets for this Event can be cancelled up to one week beforehand. Refunds will be given after this date only if the ticket is re-sold.

Event information

• This event will be held in the Landscape Studio which is accessible via lift.
• There will be a pop-up bar for refreshments.
• There will be an opportunity for Q&A after the lecture.
• Arrive promptly for a 6.30pm start.

Image: Maggie Smith as Violet Crawley © courtesy Andrew Prince – photography by Catherine

About Andrew Prince

Andrew Prince’s love for jewellery began in childhood — by age five, he was already crafting pieces from beads and copper wire. His passion deepened after visiting exhibitions at the Victoria and Albert Museum and handling historic jewels by Fabergé and Giuliano.

At 16, Andrew started working on Bond Street with antiques expert Ian Harris, learning to value jewellery for its design rather than its price. Later, working with jeweller Elizabeth Gage, he explored rare gems and refined his craft. His bold, extravagant pieces caught the attention of Vogue’s Isabella Blow, leading to high-profile commissions and magazine features.

Andrew’s work expanded to Harrods, and his costume jewellery — inspired by Victorian designs using crystals and glass — became sought after by clients like Michael Jackson and Shirley Bassey. He believed jewellery should be about beauty, not cost, saying, “If it has to be locked up, it’s a worry.”

His talent led to commissions for films like The Young Victoria, Downton Abbey, and Cinderella. Today, he lectures globally at institutions like the Victoria and Albert Museum and Christie’s, sharing his deep knowledge and passion for jewellery history and design.