The Jewellerian - Stories of Jewels

Josie Goodbody

Welcome to The Jewellerian, the podcast for those who love jewels and their stories; with me Josie Goodbody, jewellery historian and author of the Jemima Fox Jewellery mystery series, which have just been optioned for adaption to the screen.

  1. 11/29/2021

    FABERGE IN LONDON AT THE V&A. EPISODE TWO

    In the second part of my exclusive interview with Kieran McCarthy - organised in collaboration with the V&A Museum and recorded in London in October 2021 - we discuss Faberge's firm entry into English society with, firstly an office in London and then a standalone store.  The boutique at 173 Bond Street became the home away from home for the Russian emigré community, many of whom had escaped their motherland in the early 1900s. Grand Duke Michael Mikhailovich, grandson of Emperor Nicholas I would salute the portraits of the Tsar and Tsarina that hung on the walls in the London salon. And the many American heiresses, who had married into English aristocracy, would spend afternoons buying gifts to send back to their motherland. In fact Feodorowna Lady Alington (herself named after the name taken by Russian Tsarinas on marriage) proclaimed that all guests at her Christmas parties must exchange gifts from Faberge!  Of course one of the reasons that Faberge opened in London and not Paris, was thanks to the British Royal Family, already ardent supporters of the St Petersburg goldsmiths. Queen Alexandra, sister to the Dowager Tsarina Maria Feodorovna, had began a formidable collection whilst Princess of Wales - much of which had been gifted by her Russian relatives. Indeed her sister Maria Feodorovna was so annoyed that Faberge had opened in London that she famously said “Now that that silly Fabergé has his shop in London, you have everything, and I can’t send you anything new, so I am furious.”  I do hope that you enjoy this fabulous second episode with the inimitable Kieran and come back for the last episode - his remarkable discovery of one of the missing Imperial Eggs.

    38 min
  2. Susan Foster - a Manhattanite's favourite fine jeweller

    10/19/2021

    Susan Foster - a Manhattanite's favourite fine jeweller

    In this episode I speak with Susan Foster - one of the most talented independent jewellers on the island of Manhattan, as well as a dedicated philanthropist. Susan grew up in East Hampton, surrounded by creative spirit and flair. Jackson Pollock’s house and the studio of Dutch American abstract impressionist, Willem de Kooning, proved an important influence in her childhood; and consequently her career. Her colourful upbringing led her to study ancient art and architecture at UCLA, followed by apprenticeships with European goldsmiths, finally finishing her schooling at the Gemology Institute of America. Susan’s excellent training and technological prowess provides the impeccable foundation for all her jewellery designs. Influenced and inspired by current fashion, she ensures that her jewels reflect the trends whilst still remaining impeccably classical. She is internationally adored by editors and stylists alike, Carol Woolton (Vogue UK executive fashion director and jewellery author includes Susan in her latest book). And Susan's work also sets major worldwide jewellery trends themselves: diamond slices, the rebirth of chandelier earrings and buzz around oversized cocktail rings. Susan has a huge private client base, with her designs being stocked around the world, from London to LA, New York to Moscow. Her pieces are worn by celebrities on every red carpet possible, including the gorgeous Kate Hudson. Alex Shulman was gifted a pair of earrings on her retirement from Vogue UK by Conde Nast owner - Si Newhouse. In what free time Susan has - she is a philanthropist, founding A Place to be(ad) Me. The foundation is an artistic safe haven for children and young teenagers from home environments experiencing upheaval, such as a divorce, separation, domestic violence, or other traumatic events. They learn how to make jewellery, and the mere experience of beading helps them express themselves. I hope that you enjoy this episode. www.aplacetobeme.org www.susanfosterjewelry.com @susanfoster @josiegoodbody www.josiegoodbody.com

    51 min

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Jewellerian, the podcast for those who love jewels and their stories; with me Josie Goodbody, jewellery historian and author of the Jemima Fox Jewellery mystery series, which have just been optioned for adaption to the screen.