About the Society

The Society of Jewellery Historians was formed in 1977 with the aim of stimulating the growing international interest in jewellery of all ages and cultures by publishing new research and by bringing together those seriously interested in the subject, whether in a professional or private capacity. The membership includes archaeologists, museum specialists, collectors, art historians, dealers, gemmologists, practising jewellers and designers, scientists and restorers, all united by their enthusiasm for the subject.

Members receive the colour magazine Jewellery History Today three times a year, giving information on the Society's activities together with forthcoming exhibition and other jewellery news, short articles, reviews and correspondence. In addition, the Society publishes a peer-reviewed academic journal, Jewellery Studies. Volumes 1-12 of Jewellery Studies were published in hard copy form. Since 2015 it has been published electronically.

Articles from all editions of Jewellery Studies and full copies of Jewellery History Today are available free of charge to all members as pdf downloads from the website here. Hard copy back issues of both Jewellery History Today and Jewellery Studies are also available for sale to members, at a discount to the general price, here. Non-members and libraries may also apply to purchase individual copies of both publications.

The Society runs a Programme of lectures from September to June, inviting speakers from many different disciplines and many parts of the world. The lectures are usually held in London at the Society of Antiquaries, Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1V OHS. These lectures, usually held on a Tuesday evening, are followed by refreshments and an opportunity for members to meet.

'The Society also runs a Facebook group for all those with an interest in the history of jewellery, including gem use, enamelling and precious metals. It has over 5,000 followers and can be found at Jewellery History.

In addition, the Society arranges occasional:

For details of previous SJH events, click here.


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President: Dr Richard Edgcumbe, FSA. Chairman: Katherine Purcell, FSA. Deputy Chairmen: Dr Aude Mongiatti, Joanna Whalley, Dip. Cons, FGA, DGA. Hon. Secretary: Nigel Israel, FSA, FGA, DGA. Hon. Treasurer: Dr Lynne Bartlett FGA.

The Society is a registered charity No. 1151393. Registered address is: Society of Jewellery Historians, Scientific Research, The British Museum, London WC1B 3DG