Gem Pursuit: An Antique Jewellery Podcast
Step into the captivating world of antique and vintage jewellery. Gem Pursuit uncovers the stories behind history’s most remarkable jewels—from the geological forces that created them to the designers, collectors, and icons who brought them to life. Hosted by Matthew Weldon, CEO of Courtville, this is your guide to the people, craft, and intrigue behind the world’s most fascinating pieces.
Episodes
The Lalique Museum Heist
An 11 minute raid. Six smashed display cases. Twenty-seven works gone, including one of Rene Lalique's most symbolic jewels: the Woman Dragonfly With Open Wings pendant.
In episode 125 of Gem Pursuit, Matthew tells the story of the Lalique Museum Heist. This time the setting is smaller, but the loss is deeply painful for anyone who cares about jewellery history: 27 works by Rene Lalique stol
Garrard & Co
If you trace Princess Diana's sapphire ring, Queen Mary's crown and the Koh-i-Noor back far enough, one name keeps appearing: Garrard.
In this episode of Gem Pursuit, Matthew Weldon and Fenia Sigkoudi tell the story of Garrard & Co, Britain's oldest luxury jewellery house and the first official Crown Jeweller. The story begins in 1735 with master silversmith George Wickes, follows Robert
House of Bolin
Forget Faberge for a moment. In this episode of Gem Pursuit, Matthew Weldon and Fenia Sigkoudi tell the story of Bolin, the Russian jewellery house that supplied the Imperial Court, became famous for tiaras and high jewellery, and survived the revolution through a branch that found new life in Stockholm.
The story begins not with the Bolin name, but with Andreas Roempler, a German jeweller i
Boucheron
He was born a draper's son, apprenticed at 14, and told that he would never run his own jewellery business. In this episode of Gem Pursuit, Matthew Weldon and Fenia Sigkoudi trace how Frederic Boucheron built one of the great French jewellery houses, from his early training in Paris to the 1858 decision that changed everything.
The story begins in the Palais Royal, where Boucheron learned th
Jean-Baptiste Tavernier: Part Two
Matthew and Fenia continue the story of Jean-Baptiste Tavernier, following his sixth voyage to the Mughal court, his encounter with the Peacock Throne, the rough stone later known as the Hope Diamond, and the restless final chapter of one of history's most important diamond dealers.
Key Takeaways
Tavernier's sixth voyage, dated in the transcript as 1664 to 1668, is presented as the journey
Jean-Baptiste Tavernier: Part One
Before the Hope Diamond had a name or a curse, it passed through the hands of one remarkable Frenchman. This episode tells the story of Jean Baptiste Tavernier, a 17th-century merchant whose six voyages to the East changed the way Europeans understood gemstones forever.
Born in Paris in 1605 to a family of map-makers and engravers, Tavernier grew up surrounded by maps and the merchants who
Careers in Antique Jewellery: How the Trade Works
Have you ever picked up a piece of antique jewelry and wondered how it got there? Behind every brooch, ring, or sapphire in a boutique window is a network of specialists: historians, gemologists, goldsmiths, appraisers, lapidaries, and dealers, each playing a role in the journey from discovery to display case.
In this episode, Matthew Weldon of Courtville Antiques breaks down the ecosystem o
How to Get Into the Antique Jewellery Trade | Ask Me Anything
In this special Ask Me Anything episode of Gem Pursuit, Matthew Weldon answers your jewellery and gemstone questions from how antique jewellery can be dated without hallmarks, to what truly makes a great emerald, and how newcomers can begin building a career in the jewellery trade.
Along the way, Matthew discusses men’s engagement rings, buying instinct versus expertise, the changing world o
The Orlov Diamond Mystery: Theft, Power & Lost History
Was the legendary Orlov Diamond once the eye of a Hindu idol before becoming part of the Russian Crown Jewels? In this episode of Gem Pursuit, Matthew Weldon and Fenis Sigkoudi unravel the extraordinary story of the 189-carat diamond tied to Mughal emperors, Catherine the Great, theft, romance, and one of history’s greatest gem mysteries.
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The Dresden Green: The Greatest Natural Green Diamond Ever Found
The Dresden Green Diamond is one of the rarest diamonds in the world and one of the most mysterious. Its vivid green colour looks almost unnatural… but it’s entirely real.
In this episode, we explore how this extraordinary gem gets its colour from natural radiation deep within the Earth, why that makes it so exceptionally rare, and how it became one of Europe’s most treasured jewels. From ro
A New Kind of Dealer: Antique Jewellery in a Social Media World
For generations, the antique jewellery trade has been built on discretion, reputation and knowledge passed quietly from one dealer to another.
But that world is changing.
In this episode of Gem Pursuit, Matthew sits down with The Jewel Geek to explore what it means to develop an eye for antique jewellery in a more open, digital age.
From early experiences buying at auction to building a ne
The Florentine Diamond: The Jewel That Vanished for a Century
In this episode of Gem Pursuit, we tell the extraordinary story of one of history’s greatest lost diamonds - the legendary Florentine.
A pale yellow diamond of almost 140 carats, the Florentine passed through some of Europe’s most powerful dynasties, from the Medici family to the Habsburg emperors, before disappearing in the chaos that followed the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
For m
Diamonds Part II: From Rough Crystal to Brilliant Cut
In the second part of our diamond series, we turn from science to history.
After exploring how diamonds form and how they are cut in Part I, this episode follows the extraordinary journey of the diamond through human history. From the ancient riverbeds of India to the great discoveries in Brazil and South Africa, we trace how diamonds moved across continents, empires and centuries.
Along th
Diamonds: Nature vs Craft, Art vs Science
Diamonds form over billions of years, deep within the Earth's mantle under unimaginable pressure. But what makes them truly extraordinary isn’t only what nature creates - it’s also what human hands choose to do next.
In the first episode of our diamond series, we return to the stone we haven’t properly explored since the very early days of the podcast and ask a big question: where does natur
The Heart Motif in Jewellery
What is the most recognisable symbol in jewellery history? The heart.
In this Valentine’s special episode of Gem Pursuit, Matthew Weldon and Fenia Sigkoudi explore the enduring story of the heart motif — a symbol that has carried secret messages, sealed romantic promises, and expressed devotion for centuries.
We begin in the ancient world, where the heart was believed to be the centre of th
Andy Warhol's Secret Stash
Andy Warhol is one of the most recognisable artists of the 20th century, but after his death in 1987, it was what he owned that truly shocked the art world. Hidden inside his New York townhouse was a vast, obsessive, and deeply personal collection: furniture, fine art, kitsch, cookie jars, watches… and an extraordinary cache of jewellery he never wore in public.
In this episode, we explore A
Antique Jewellery in the Age of TikTok & AI
As the year turns, Matthew takes stock. In this New Year episode, he reflects on 2025 through the lens of a year spent travelling, learning, and paying close attention — from attending international fairs and events, to being nominated for and attending the TikTok Awards, and being elected to the Company of Goldsmiths in Dublin.
The conversation then widens to eight years in business at the
Xmas 2025 Ask us Anything Special
In this festive special episode of Gem Pursuit, Matthew and Fenia answer your brilliant listener questions in a cosy, end-of-year Ask Us Anything special.
From spotting the subtle clues that date antique jewellery, to underrated gemstones, lost craft techniques, emotional motifs, and even the idea of cursed pieces, this episode is a wide-ranging chat for anyone who loves jewellery history an
Jewellery in Paintings: Jane Morris (The Blue Silk Dress)
Jane Morris was a muse of the Pre-Raphaelites, a central figure in the early Arts & Crafts movement and the quietly powerful presence at the heart of an influential artistic circle.
In this episode, Matthew and Fenia explore the story behind Rossetti’s The Blue Silk Dress, focusing on the jewellery Jane wears and the symbolism carried within the portrait.
Drawing only on what is known f
Jewellery in Paintings: Princess Caroline of Monaco
In this episode, we explore Andy Warhol’s silkscreen print portrait of Caroline of Monaco, created for Vogue in the early 1980s. We discuss the bold colours, big hair, bare-back pose, and the striking sapphire-and-diamond jewels that define the portrait’s 1980s style. We also look at the pop art movement, celebrity culture, and Caroline’s reputation as the “rebel princess”.
Beyond the portra
Jewellery in Paintings: The Drake Jewell
In the latest episode of our Jewellery in Paintings series Matthew is joined by Courtville historian Fenia Sigkoudi to explore The Drake Jewel - a magnificent Renaissance pendant that intertwines art, politics and piracy!
Once gifted by Queen Elizabeth I to Sir Francis Drake, the jewel tells an extraordinary story of ambition, power and symbolism.
Matthew and Fenia trace how this locket b
The Louvre Jewellery Heist
In this special episode of Gem Pursuit, we turn from the past to the present — and to one of the most daring jewellery thefts in recent memory.
In October 2025, eight pieces of the French Crown Jewels were stolen in broad daylight from the Louvre’s Galerie d’Apollon. Valued at €88 million, the missing treasures include the tiara of Empress Eugénie and the emeralds of Empress Marie Louise — j
Jewellery in Paintings: Girl with a Pearl Earring
In this brand new series of Gem Pursuit, we step into the world of fine art to uncover the jewels hidden on canvas. Jewellery in Paintings explores how artists captured the sparkle, symbolism, and status of gems throughout history.
We begin with one of the most iconic images in Western art: Johannes Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring. Often called the “Mona Lisa of the North,” this enigmati
Instinct at Work: Adventures in Antique Jewellery with Michael Singer
Matthew and Alyce welcome back renowned antique jewellery specialist Michael Singer, Director of Acquisitions at Windsor, New York.
Michael shares stories of some remarkable adventures from his decades in the trade including trading a 15th-century manuscript for a Kashmir sapphire, finding a one-of-a-kind Tiffany necklace with ties to the French royal family and bending the rules of an aucti
Three Stories Every Jewellery Salesperson Needs to Know (Live from Las Vegas)
We are delighted to be back from our summer mini-hiatus and have been busy working away on our exciting upcoming podcast series. We'll say no more about that for now....
In the meantime, something a little bit different - a solo Matthew episode, recorded at the Couture Show in Las Vegas back in May of this year. Courtville was exhibiting at the Antique Jewellery and Watch Show down the hall
Lalique
For our 100th episode of Gem Pursuit, we’re throwing it back to one of your Firm Favourites — the legendary house of Lalique. This special episode marks not just a podcast milestone, but also the 100-year anniversary of the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs — the defining moment of the Art Deco era, and a showcase for Lalique’s visionary designs.
We revisit the artistry, inn
Opal Tiara | V&A Cartier Exhbition (Audio guide)
In this special series of Gem Pursuit, we put a spotlight on some of the most important Cartier pieces of the 20th century, currently on display at the V&A museum in London.
In each episode, we take a closer look at a different extraordinary piece, uncovering its story, design, and place in jewellery history.
This is your audio guide to the Opal Tiara, once worn by Mary Alice Cavendish,
Gloria Swanson's Diamond & Rock Crystal Cuffs | V&A Cartier Exhbition (Audio guide)
In this special series of Gem Pursuit, we put a spotlight on some of the most important Cartier pieces of the 20th century, currently on display at the V&A museum in London.
In each episode, we take a closer look at a different extraordinary piece, uncovering its story, design, and place in jewellery history.
This is your audio guide to the diamond and rock crystal cuffs worn by screen
The Dress was the Accessory: Amethyst Bib Necklace | V&A Cartier Exhbition (Audio guide)
In this special series of Gem Pursuit, we put a spotlight on some of the most important Cartier pieces of the 20th century, currently on display at the V&A museum in London.
In each episode, we take a closer look at a different extraordinary piece, uncovering its story, design, and place in jewellery history.
This is your audio guide to the Amethyst Bib Necklace, a vivid and sculptural
Egyptian Revival Scarab Brooches | V&A Cartier Exhbition (Audio guide)
In this special series of Gem Pursuit, we put a spotlight on some of the most important Cartier pieces of the 20th century, currently on display at the V&A museum in London.
In each episode, we take a closer look at a different extraordinary piece, uncovering its story, design, and place in jewellery history.
This is your audio guide to the Egyptian Revival scarab brooches, captivating
The Mountbatten Bandeau | V&A Cartier Exhbition (Audio guide)
In this special series of Gem Pursuit we put a spotlight on some of the most important Cartier pieces of the 20th century which are currently on display at the V&A museum in London.
In each episode, we take a closer look at a different extraordinary piece uncovering its story, design, and place in jewellery history.
This is your audio guide to the Mountbatten Bandeau, a remarkable jewel
Jewellery of the Titanic: Part II
The second part of our Titanic special looks in detail at two passenger stories from the disaster and what we can learn about their lives and the time period from the jewellery and other personal items that were recovered from the wreck.
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Jewellery of the Titanic: Part I
We all know the story of the sinking of the RMS Titanic but something that's lesser known is what specific jewellery and other luxury items were on board the most opulent ship on earth when it sank to the bottom of the Atlantic.
In the first two parts, Matthew and Alyce look closely at some of the insurance claims made after the disaster, which provide an insight into one particularly incred
Bog Oak
The third and final part of our St Patrick's series for March (a few days late!).
The prevalance of bog in Ireland makes us one of the best places in the world to find the unusual material known as Bog Oak and it makes some amazing jewellery.
Matthew and Alyce talk through how Bog Oak is formed, how it has been used to make jewellery and share some of their favourite examples from history.
The Tara Brooch
A special St Patrick's Day episode celebrating what is perhaps one of the most historically significant pieces of Irish jewellery ever discovered.
Matthew and Alyce talk through this incredibly intricate and sophisticated piece in detail, giving an insight into its function and importance in Early Medieval Ireland.
We also hear the story of its discovery, the origin of the name, and it's la
The Love Story of Michael Collins & Kitty Kiernan
Gem Pursuit is doing a special run of Irish-themed episodes for the month of March!
In this first one, we explore the courtship and romance of Michael Collins and Kitty Kiernan - a love story set against the backdrop of Ireland’s fight for independence.
Through published letters and diaries, we journey into the private world of one of Ireland's most significant political and military figure
Put a Ring on It: Proposals Past and Present
To mark an end to Valentine's weekend, we thought we would do a special Gem Pursuit episode to share a few stories of marriage proposals down through history including the first ever diamond solitaire engagement ring (the real first one!) as well as the fascintating story of how Martin Luther and Katharina von Bora wound up getting hitched.
We also discuss some of the sweetest (and funniest)
Tales of the Trade (Live from Miami Beach)
The second and final part of Gem Pursuit's trip to the US of A.
In front of a live audience at the Original Miami Beach Antique Show 2025, Matthew spoke with Michael Singer of Windsor Jewellers and Olivier Bachet of the International Antique Jewellers Association (IAJA) who shared their experience of working with antique & signed jewellery, gave some helpful advice to people starting out
The Life & Crimes of Murph the Surf (Live from Miami Beach)
Gem Pursuit goes Stateside!
In front of a live audience at the Original Miami Beach Antique Show 2025, Matthew and Alyce tell the incredible story of Jack Roland Murphy - AKA Murph the Surf - one of the most notorius jewellery thieves in US history.
Hear the details of the infamous heist of the Museum of Natural History in New York where he and his crew managed to steal the Star of India sa
A walk through the Museum of Natural History in NYC
Matthew and Alyce start off the year with a quick visit to the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, one of the most impressive gemstone and mineral collections in the world.
Alyce puts Matthew's gem knowledge to the test, while Matthew concentrates on keeping them both out of trouble...
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Ask Us Anything Christmas Special
In our final Gem Pursuit episode of the year, we answer some of our listeners burning antique jewellery questions.
Matthew and Alyce reveal what's in their own personal collections, clear up which is the most valuable colour for sapphires and shed some light on the significance of colour seasons when choosing that dream piece of jewellery, as well as answering many more insightful questions
Icons of Jewellery: Maria Felix
Our final icon in this series is Alyce's all time favourite, La Doña, Maria Felix, the Mexican film star who was renowned for her exquisite beauty and charisma.
Alyce and Matthew discuss her phenomenal jewellery collection which included the Ashoka diamond as well as taking another look at her iconic serpent and crocodile necklaces from Cartier.
We also share some important advice on what t
Icons of Jewellery: Evalyn Walsh McLean
The life of Evalyn Walsh McLean - a mining heiress and socialite in the early 20th century - is perhaps the quintessential story of the American dream.
Her Jewellery Icon status was never in doubt due to her ownership of two of the most legendary diamonds in history - the Hope Diamond and the Star of the East.
Matthew and Alyce also discuss the curse of the Hope Diamond and its origins, whi
Icons of Jewellery: Rihanna
In this episode, we shine the spotlight on a modern-day jewellery icon known for her signature flair—Rihanna. Known for her trailblazing style and unapologetic love for luxury, the Caribbean queen has become one of the most captivating jewellery icons of our time.
Matthew spills the tea about the time he met Rihanna while Alyce takes the opportunity to once again maneovre the conversation to
Icons of Jewellery: Elizabeth Taylor
In this episode we put the spotlight on the Queen of Diamonds herself - and maybe the most talked about person in the history of the podcast - Elizabeth Taylor.
Alyce takes an educated guess at Liz's love language as well as the possible origin of this lifelong fixation while Matthew drools over the jewels.
We also provide an alternative perspective on her infamous eight marriages and discu
Icons of Jewellery: Napoleon Bonaparte
In the first episode of the new Icons of Jewellery series, Matthew and Alyce look at the life and legacy of the iconic French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte and his immense influence on jewellery.
Alyce finds some big clues to Napoleon's attachment style in his love letters to Josephine while Matthew has ample opportunities to display his command of the French language.
We also discuss the incr
Ireland’s Ancient Treasures
Jewellery and history lovers listen up, we’re taking you on a Courtville field trip to one of Ireland’s most fascinating museums.
The National Museum of Ireland is filled with 4000 year old treasures and insights into the lives of our ancestors. Matthew and Alyce went to see some of the incredibly preserved jewellery and were absolutely blown away by pieces including incredibly crafted fibu
Insider Tips for Antiques Fairs
One of the best places to find unique and special pieces of jewellery is at antique fairs.
At Courtville, they’re one of our absolute favourite things, both to shop and showcase at, and we’ve visited some of the best in the world! They are a haven for antique jewellery lovers and in this episode Matthew and Alyce have got all of the top tips for beginners and seasoned collectors alike. From
Hollywood's Jewellery Box: Ruby Slippers & Yellow Diamonds
Jewellery has played a big role in some of our favourite Hollywood movies, with some pieces creating massive cultural influence and connecting with audiences.
Matthew and Alyce are taking you to the big screen to look at some of the most iconic pieces and why they have captivated us in classic films. From sparkling ruby slippers to huge diamond necklaces, we share the history and craft behi
Pursuit In Paris: Cartier
Paris is home to one of the most high profile names and design houses associated with fine jewellery in history, the iconic Cartier.
This week Matthew and Alyce are taking a deep dive into the world of Cartier with a very special guest. Olivier Bachet is a Cartier expert and author of two books on their incredible work, including his most recent, ‘In The Beginning Was The Line; Cartier Art
Pursuit In Paris: French Crown Jewels
Paris is one of the most amazing cities in the world to visit museums and galleries full of antiques, jewellery and history. One of the most fascinating histories of France is the story of their Crown Jewels.
Matthew and Alyce were lucky enough to see some of what’s left of the French Crown Jewels on their recent business trip to Paris. In this episode they take you on the winding journey o
Pursuit in Paris: The Louvre
Paris is always a good idea and no antique and jewellery lover's trip to this beautiful city would be complete without visiting the Louvre Gallery.
On a recent business trip Matthew and Alyce got to visit some of the most iconic spots in Paris for history, antiques and jewellery. Having walked 20,000 steps around the Louvre, they saw some incredible pieces and have all of the tips, tricks a
Pursuit In Paris: Musée des Arts Décoratifs
If you are a lover of antique jewellery there are some really special places where you can see the best of the best of antique and vintage pieces, and today we’ve got a recommendation for you.
The Gem Pursuit team recently took a business trip to beautiful Paris and while on their travels they visited the Musée des Arts Décoratifs. The museum houses pieces from some of the most iconic artis
Defining Movements: Victorian Period Pt. 3
As we come to the end of our mysterious and magical pursuit through the Victorian period, we’re looking at an era that collectors are most likely to have pieces from.
Today we’re exploring the Aesthetic Era, which was led by radical artists and designers who wanted to break away from the strict norms and traditional morals of the time. Matthew takes us through the changes happening in the w
Defining Movements: Victorian Period Pt. 2
As we continue on our mysterious and magical pursuit through the Victorian period, we’re taking a look at the mini-eras defined during the reign of Queen Victoria.
Today we’re moving on from the Romantic era into the Grand era, which began with the sudden death of Prince Albert and was defined by advancements in technology, travel and ancient inspiration. Matthew and Alyce explain the ways
Defining Movements: Victorian Period Pt. 1
One of the most well-known jewellery movements is defined by the reign of Britain’s Queen Victoria. Having sat on the throne for 63 years, the Queen’s personality, life and interests inspired many evolving trends in the world.
Over this mini-series, we’ll be taking a closer look at the eras of the Queen’s reign, with this episode focusing on the Romantic era. Matthew and Alyce describe what
Art Deco Icon in NYC
Courtville recently displayed at an incredible antiques fair in the Metropolitan Pavilion in New York and our very own Alyce got to check out an exhibition of one of the most prestigious art deco artists while on her travels.
Tamara de Lempicka had a fascinating life, one that has now been made into a broadway musical. Her unique, standout style had a lasting impact on the Art Deco movement
Defining Movements: Suffragettes
One of the beauties of antique jewellery is that it can serve as a reminder of defining moments or movements in history that led to truly unique pieces.
Today, we’re taking a look at the jewellery that was inspired by and created for the suffragette movement in the UK. These political pieces are some of the most collectible antique jewellery you will come across and are an important reminder
Defining Movements: Art Nouveau
Unlike the fleeting trends of the modern day, antique jewellery comes from times of defined eras and movements that inspired many artists and makers.
We’ve covered jewellery eras in a past series but we never got to dive into this incredible movement that shaped art, design, architecture and of course jewellery. Although sometimes considered an acquired taste, art nouveau can be appreciated
Royal Regalia: Spectacular Sweden
We’re back with a very special bonus episode of our Royal Regalia: A History of Splendour series after a listener request for an episode on the crown jewels of Sweden.
Sweden’s Kingdom has a history spanning over 1000 years. The protected jewel collection features some of the most impressive parures and tiaras you’ll ever see, including a bejeweled, cowboy-esque crown.
Matthew and Alyce d
Royal Regalia: Investigating Ireland
We have come to the end of our special series ‘Royal Regalia: A History of Splendour’ and for our final episode we’re taking a look at some jewels close to home.
Although you may not have known this country would have crown jewels, we’ll find out the history that led to their establishment, how they trace back to British royal regalia and the suspicious circumstances of their mysterious dis
Royal Regalia: Bold Britain
We’re just over half way through our short series, Royal Regalia: A History Of Splendour, looking at the stories and histories behind some of the world’s most famous crown jewels. Today, we look at a collection shroud in family spats and colonial controversy.
The British Royal Family has always been subject to criticism and the history of their jewel collections are no different. From quest
Royal Regalia: Opulent Iran
We’re continuing on our magical and mysterious pursuit through the world of royal jewellery and this week, we’re talking about a collection of crown jewels that has been accumulating over many centuries.
The Iranian National Jewels stand as one of the world’s most expensive and extensive collections in the world. Matthew and Alyce examine their tumultuous history and decadent taste, includin
Royal Regalia: Danish Delight
This season we’re taking a magical and mysterious pursuit through the world of Royal Regalia: A History of Splendour, a topic that has been long-awaited and requested many times from our wonderful listeners.
In the first episode of this season we’re taking a look at a country with one of the most magnificent histories and royal jewel collections, Denmark.
Matthew and Alyce dive into the i
A Royal Gift From the Grave
For avid jewellery collectors it can sometimes feel like a piece finds its way to you without even having to look for it. That was certainly the case for Victoria Waller, a passionate and knowledgeable collector who received a very unique and special piece just a week after her mother passed away.
Victoria shares the incredible story of how her namesake Queen Victoria’s rare Coburg Eagle la
Collecting Antique Jewellery | What You Need to Know
The world of antique jewellery is both magical and mysterious, and Gem Pursuit is always trying to help you develop your own understanding, and your collection!
Whether you’re new to antique jewellery, or a collector trying to broaden your knowledge, Matthew and Alyce are bringing you the ultimate book to guide you. John Benjamin’s ‘Starting to Collect Antique Jewellery’ has been hugely infl
Gem Trivial Pursuit Christmas Special
It’s the most wonderful time of the year and as a little gift from Gem Pursuit to you this festive season we’ve got a very special edition of Gem Trivial Pursuit!
Matthew and Alyce go head to head to see who is the greatest quizmas master of all and not with some laughs, and questionable knowledge, along the way. Find out what year the Hallmark cards began, which country really believes in t
Jaw Dropping Christmas Gifts
‘Tis the season and for our bonus episode of Season Eight Matthew and Alyce take a look at the history of gift giving from the Three Wise Men to Napoleon.
Gift giving can be traced back to 40,000 years ago, with figures made of woolly mammoth ivory.
From the thoughtful gifts of the three wise men, to one of the biggest rubies ever documented and even the classic pearls of a fashion icon, Ma
Imagery in Jewellery
A picture tells a thousand words and long before photography, jewellery was telling the stories of the wearer, memorialising loved ones and even harbouring secrets. Matthew and Alyce take a journey through the history of imagery in jewellery and celebrate a craft that became a dead art thanks to modern technology.
People were capturing memories through imagery as far back as the 1500s and in
Fine Goldwork
The value of gold has skyrocketed over the last number of decades, which makes it a limited and expensive material to work with. Matthew and Alyce share the unique ways this noble metal was crafted in the past and why many types of goldwork are now considered a dead art.
Goldwork traces all the way back to ancient times but in this episode the focus is on filigree and cannetille, how these c
Hairy Scary
Given the time of year it felt only right to look at some of the what some might call the ‘creepier’ dead arts. Matthew and Alyce take a journey through hair art, teeth jewellery and taxidermy in this shiver-inducing episode.
Although they’re not for everyone, we find out how these pieces were important mementos of times passed for people to remember their loved ones and why taxidermy went
Enamelling
In this episode Matthew and Alyce dive into the dying art of enamelling. Although it’s something we might all be able to find on items in our own homes, finding a skilled enameller who can create art to the standard of the past is next to impossible.
Enamelling can be found in many forms and today we look back on the 2500 years of the art, hear about some of the finest crafts people and the
Lapidary
Lapidary
Some of the unique art forms of jewellery creation are dying out thanks to modern technology and lack of training options
Today we’re taking a look at the dying art of lapidary or gemstone cutting. Matthew and Alyce discuss the history of the art and why it has become so difficult to find modern masters of the craft, along with sharing the time periods that really highlight the mo
Celebrating 50 Episodes
To celebrate over 50 episodes of Gem Pursuit Matthew and Alyce are taking you through a journey of their top five episodes.
It was no easy task deciding on our top five but you’ll hear stories of Godly gemstones, the lost city of gold and the brutal standards of one very famous jeweller.
We’ll also be looking ahead to Season 8, which will be in your ears this October and is all about the
Onyx
Onyx has a long and fabled history and although many will (correctly) associate it with the Art Deco era, it was also an important gemstone at many other periods throughout history.
We talk about how different cultures have viewed this gem and the way its colouration impacts upon this. We also discuss banding, Tutmania and sugary treatments...
View our Onyx collection.
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G
Opal
We celebrate our 50th episode with Matthew's favourite gem, that stone with the incredible, one of a kind play of colour that is Opal.
Known as the pride of Australia, it's a gemstone Alyce knows pretty well but she talks about how her initial perception has changed since when she was a kid growing up Down Under.
Listen to the end for the triumphant return of Gem Trivial Pursuit and find ou
Alexandrite: the Chameleon of Crystals
Renowned for it's remarkable colour-changing properties and 10,000 rarer than diamond, Alexandrite is undoubtedly one of the most extraordinary and sought-after gemstones on earth.
Matthew and Alyce give an overview of the short history of the gem, provide some insight into it's fascinating colour change and, as usual, offer a few nuggets of insight from the trade to help you on your own Ale
Jade: a Tough Treasure
Jade is a super versatile gem with a rich history and enormous cultural significance all across the world.
Matthew explains the difference between toughness and hardness when it comes to gemstones while Alyce shares some more stories from her own cultural heritage and personal jewellery collection.
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A Tape Deck podcast
Spinel: the Gemmiest Gem?
Long known as "the Great Imposter" due to the frequency with which it was mistaken for ruby and other more commercial gemstones, Spinel is nonetheless a rare, beautiful and durable gem that is especially prized amongst dealers in the antique jewellery trade.
Famous Spinels discussed include the Black Prince's Ruby and the Côte-de-Bretagne in the French Crown Jewels.
www.courtville.ie
A Tap
Peridot
This episode focuses on one of Matthew's favourite gemstones, Peridot.
Alyce shares some some fascinating Polynesian peridot mythology and reveals why she'll never ever be able to forget how to identify Peridot!
Matthew talks about a stunning piece containing Peridot which has mysteriously disappeared...
www.courtville.ie
A Tape Deck podcast
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