Portrait of Jewels: Following Missing Treasures through Canvas
May 22, 2025 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
- This event has passed.
This lecture unravels the extraordinary journeys of lost and rediscovered treasures, offering a captivating glimpse into the shifting tides of power, fashion, and fortune throughout history.
What inspired Andrew to create this talk was a visit to the National Portrait Gallery. Seeing all the Tudor, Stuart and Hanoverian monarchs dressed in their finery, he wondered what had happened to all their spectacular jewellery?
Among the many jewels he traces, Andrew follows ropes of glowing pearls that belonged to Catherine de Medic, Mary Queen of Scotts, Elizabeth 1st, Queen Victoria and Elizabeth II, as well as a striking diamond that was bought by James 1st, sold by Queen Henrietta Maria, stolen during the French Revolution and later set in a tiara worn by an American Heiress, who became the first female British member of Parliament. Jewel hunting has never been more fascinating!
Tickets £15
Book your space now.
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.
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.
