Victoria & Albert Museum To Open New Jewellery Gallery

The Victoria & Albert Museum will open the new William and Judith Bollinger Jewellery Gallery on 24 May 2008. It will display 3,500 pieces of jewellery from the museum's impressive collection, which is renowned to be one of the finest and largest in the world.

The collection tells the story of European jewellery during the last 800 years, with fine examples of pieces worn by historic figures during this period. Highlights include jewelled pendants given by Queen Elizabeth I to her courtiers, diamonds worn by Catherine the Great of Russia and the famous Beauharnais Emeralds given by Napoleon to his adopted daughter.

A four year renovation has taken place, thanks to the generous donation of William Bollinger, including a complete re-design of the area.

New additions to the collection include Lady Mountbatten's "tutti frutti" ruby, sapphire, emerald and diamond bandeau, which she purchased from Cartier in 1928, as well as additions to the Cartier, Lalique and Tiffany collections.

Whether you're a history buff, jewellery aficionado or simply someone that enjoys a nice piece of jewellery, this is sure to be an enjoyable and educational day out.

Victoria & Albert Museum Website