Monday 18th March:
Diamonds and Gems: Their Myths, Discoveries and Use
Mankind has revered diamonds and gemstones for millennia, with their popularity shaped by legends, discoveries and fashion. We will firstly explore the history of diamonds, with famous examples such as the Hope and the Farnese Blue only found in India until 1725, before their discovery in Brazil and the later South African diamond rush. We will then unearth the finest rubies from the legendary Mogok mines in Burma, the rarest Kashmir sapphires, and the rising demand for emeralds after the 16th century Spanish conquest of Colombia. We will also look at the long allure of natural pearls – many of which originated from the Gulf – and how the rise of cultured pearls very nearly pushed them into oblivion.
Monday 25 March:
Deco to Retro: Jewellery In Historical Design
Looking at iconic jewellery collections from the major Maisons such as Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels and Tiffany, we will explore how the design movements of the last 150 years impacted jewellery design, the ways in which jewels were worn, and the choice of gemstones used. We will see how the pioneering use of platinum resulted in the intricate Belle Epoque creations and the corresponding Garland style of jewellery that was unique to Cartier. Art Nouveau jewellers rebelled against the Industrial Revolution through intricate designs often using semi- if not non-precious materials, while opulence and colour lay behind the unexpectedly exotic jewels during the Art Deco era. The stories behind some of these spectacular jewels will be revealed, including the demanding commissions of their famous owners and the dazzling social events at which they were worn.
Daily Itinerary
10:30 am - Meet for arrival coffee, tea and biscuits
11:00 am - First half of talk
12:00 pm - Short break
12:15 pm - Second half of talk
Approximately 1 pm - Finish
Cost & Booking
200 AED per session (Including 5% VAT), or 350 AED if you purchase both in one payment. This includes tea, coffee and biscuits supplied by the XVA Café.
Please contact XVA Gallery on xva@xvagallery.com or 04-353-5383 to book. To confirm your booking, advanced payment must be made. There are a restricted number of places, so please book.