So much has been written about the dazzling hoard of jewels and jewellery found in London's Cheapside, which was discovered during building work in 1912. The jewellery, from the 16th and 17th centuries were hidden in a wooden box, waiting to be rescued one day. The designs, level of craftsmanship and quality of the gemstones have amazed and enchanted so many.
Part of the enchantment, is the mystery surrounding the hoard, who buried it and why? It is thought that perhaps it was a goldsmith who supplied jewellery to wealthy merchants, Royals and Aristocrats. But no one knows why it was hidden? Was it the Civil war, the Plague or the Great Fire of London, what situation was the person who buried it going through?
The gems found are from all over the world from Columbia to Afghanistan and Burma... It is so exciting and gives such an insight into design and the history of London at the time. The designers themselves were also international and the fashion of the time demanded those, wealthy enough, to be draped in gem stones and jewellery - how wonderful!
Part of the enchantment, is the mystery surrounding the hoard, who buried it and why? It is thought that perhaps it was a goldsmith who supplied jewellery to wealthy merchants, Royals and Aristocrats. But no one knows why it was hidden? Was it the Civil war, the Plague or the Great Fire of London, what situation was the person who buried it going through?
The gems found are from all over the world from Columbia to Afghanistan and Burma... It is so exciting and gives such an insight into design and the history of London at the time. The designers themselves were also international and the fashion of the time demanded those, wealthy enough, to be draped in gem stones and jewellery - how wonderful!
Colour and design seem to be so important to the people of London in the 16th and 17th Centuries. You can see evidence of the silk route and the travels people were taking internationally. Londoners must have been so intrigued by these exotic and mysterious designs, stones, creatures and colours.
Just look at this Emerald, you could get lost in its depth and colour. Could this have come all teh way from the new world (Columbia or Brazil?)
This pendant is exquisite, so delicate and beautiful!
I love this piece, it is so pretty and delicate. The colour of the gems is just so mystical and full of depth. Who wore this, where did the gem come from and what journey did it make... I get butterflies thinking about it.
The timeless crucifix, perhaps worn by someone high up in the church?
This Scent bottle is so delicate and encapsulates so many jewellery crafts. I just simply adore its design.
This little parrot is my favourite piece, I'm not sure why, I think it is the colour and the exoticism of it. So cute and yet stunningly beautiful. Parrot's would not be known to many during those days. Again, I wonder where this precious little gem came from, what is its story and who loved it as much as me all those 100's of years ago?
Read and see more at http://www.thejewelleryeditor.com/2013/06/cheapside-hoard-jewellery-to-go-on-display-at-the-museum-of-london/ and http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b03d6b1j
You can visit the Cheapside hoard at the museum of London too http://www.museumoflondon.org.uk/london-wall/whats-on/exhibitions-displays/cheapside-hoard-londons-lost-jewels/
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