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Crafting Precious Metals: Jewellery 1950s–today
One-day course
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
In this engaging half-day in-person course, delve into the fascinating world of gold, arguably the most enduring, alluring, and symbolically potent material in human history. Guided by the expertise of V&A art historians and curators, and enhanced by insights from the museum's world-renowned collection, this course offers an in-depth introduction to gold's materiality and metallurgical properties.
Explore gold’s evolving social history, from traditional mining and sourcing practices to contemporary innovations that reflect today’s ethical and technological advancements. Examine exquisite jewellery by iconic 20th-century goldsmithing workshops, alongside striking works by today’s most innovative designer-makers. Through this exploration, you’ll learn about the artistry, craftsmanship, and cultural narratives that continue to shape gold’s significance.
Course leaders
Clare Phillips and Emefa Cole
Clare Phillips is the Elizabeth gage Curator of Jewellery at the V&A and the author of the V&A’s ‘Jewels and Jewellery’. Emefa Cole is a jewellery curator at the V&A with a specific focus on the diaspora. She is also a practising jewellery artist.
A wonderful opportunity to learn in a world class museum Previous V&A Academy Course Attendee
Course overview
In this engaging half-day onsite course, join art historians and curators Clare Phillips and Emefa Cole as they illuminate gold's rich materiality, complex history, and evolving practices of its sourcing and mining. Discover innovations in goldwork and gain insights into the multifaceted narratives of gold jewellery production from the 1900s to the present. Uncover the artistry, craftsmanship, and cultural significance that have shaped this timeless medium.
V&A Academy. A learning environment you can trust.
Being up close with treasured objects from the V&A's collections brings your learning to life. Get precious time with incredible exemplars, as well as with our expert tutors and your fellow learners.
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One-day course: Crafting Precious Metals: Jewellery 1950s–today
10 June 2025
£150.00
Need help enrolling? Talk to the admissions team:
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
Open 10.00 - 13.00, Monday to Sunday (closed 24-26 December)
Related events
Header image: Prototype bracelet, silver-gilt with coloured stones, designed and made by John Donald, England 1968-9 © Victoria and Albert Museum, London