An engraving of Richard Whittington (1354-1423) by W.L.Thomas from the 1800s, based on an earlier engraving by Reginald Elstrack.
On the evening of Monday 2 November 2026, join Stella Grace Lyons for an exploration of the symbolism of jewellery in Western art from the fifteenth to the eighteenth century as discussed in her new book ‘The Secret Language of Jewellery in Art’.
Jewellery in art is often overlooked – dismissed as decorative or incidental. Yet it shaped how people were seen and judged: proclaiming power and lineage, advertising fertility, signalling desire, enforcing virtue and betraying private anxieties.
In ‘The Secret Language of Jewellery in Art’, Stella Grace Lyons exposes a forgotten visual language hidden within early modern painting. From queens and courtesans to merchants, lovers and enslaved children, Stella reveals how the full gamut of human desires, aspirations and fears glittered in the smallest of details.
Tickets for The Secret Language of Jewellery in Art are priced at £15 per person and include a drinks reception following the talk
Following the talk you will be able to buy signed editions of Stella’s new book The Secret Language of Jewellery in Art
Doors will open at 18:00 ahead of a prompt 18:30 start
About the speaker
Stella Grace Lyons is an art historian, writer and Arts Society accredited lecturer, known for bringing works of art vividly to life through storytelling.
With over fifteen years’ experience as a professional speaker, Stella has lectured widely throughout the UK, Ireland, Norway, Germany, Belgium, Spain, France, the Netherlands, Italy, Malta and Malaysia. She has spoken for organisations including the National Trust and Goldsmiths’ Fair, at London’s private members’ clubs including The Hurlingham Club, the Royal Automobile Club, the Royal Over-Seas League, and internationally for cultural travel companies including Road Scholar, Noble Caledonia and Hebridean Island Cruises.
Jill Finch
Terms & Conditions
Tickets for The Secret Language of Jewellery in Art are priced at £15 per person and are non refundable.
Tickets must be booked in the name of the person who is attending - photo ID that matches the name on the booking will be required to gain entry.
Security & bag policy
Goldsmiths’ Hall operates Airport style enhanced security procedures for all public events - these include a bag scanner and a security arch. Suitcases and items larger than a laptop bag are not permitted inside the building. Cloakroom facilities will be provide free of charge for coats, bags and umbrellas.
Step-free access to Goldsmiths’ Hall
The main entrance to Goldsmiths’ Hall is on Foster Lane and may not be suitable for visitors who require step-free access. Those who are require level access from street level should ring the bell on Carey Lane, for assistance and access by lift.
The first floor Public Rooms can be accessed by lift from within the ground floor lobby.
If you have any concerns or questions about visiting the building, please email us and we will do our best to assist.