Jewelry Camp 2018: Unveiling the World of Antique, Estate, and Vintage Jewelry at the Newark Museum

Newark, NJ – The highly anticipated Antique Jewelry & Art Conference, affectionately known as "Jewelry Camp," proudly announces its 2018 agenda. Recognized as the foremost educational resource for delving into the intricate world of antique, estate, and vintage jewelry, this year's conference promises an unparalleled experience for collectors, dealers, appraisers, and enthusiasts alike. Set against the historic backdrop of the Newark Museum in Newark, NJ, on October 26 – 27, 2018, Jewelry Camp will bring together an extraordinary lineup of industry titans. Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to participate in insightful lectures and engaging, hands-on sessions led by some of the most respected and knowledgeable experts in today's dynamic jewelry markets. This two-day event is meticulously designed to foster deeper understanding, refine appraisal skills, and illuminate the rich cultural tapestry woven into every precious piece.

Jewelry Camp 2018 is more than just a conference; it's a vibrant hub for learning, networking, and celebrating the artistry and history of fine jewelry. From discerning the authenticity of a rare heirloom to navigating the complexities of the modern market, the agenda is crafted to address critical topics relevant to both seasoned professionals and burgeoning collectors. Participants will gain actionable insights into market trends, valuation techniques, preservation strategies, and the evolving digital landscape of high jewelry. Prepare for a captivating journey through time and craftsmanship, guided by leading authorities dedicated to sharing their passion and expertise.

A Glimpse into the Esteemed 2018 Program: Key Dates and Locations

Friday, October 26: Exclusive New York City Pre-Conference Events

The conference kicks off with a series of exclusive events in the heart of New York City, offering attendees unique opportunities for artistic appreciation and hands-on interaction with exquisite jewelry pieces. These pre-conference gatherings are designed to enrich the overall experience, providing intimate settings for discovery and networking before the main lectures begin.

1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Art Jewelry Showcase Hosted by Donna Schneier Fine Arts
Immerse yourself in contemporary artistry at an exclusive art jewelry show featuring collections from six distinguished artists. Hosted by the renowned Donna Schneier Fine Arts, this pre-conference event provides a rare chance to explore modern interpretations of jewelry as wearable art. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the creators, understand their inspirations, and appreciate the craftsmanship that defines cutting-edge jewelry design. This intimate gathering is perfect for those who appreciate the evolution of jewelry beyond traditional antique forms and seek to understand its place in contemporary art. The event will be held at The Pierre New York, located at 2 E 61st Street, New York, USA 10065, a setting as elegant as the jewelry on display.

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Hands-on Jewelry Preview and Cocktail Reception Hosted by Fortuna Auction
Later in the evening, Fortuna Auction invites Jewelry Camp participants to a special hands-on jewelry preview and cocktail reception. This event offers a unique opportunity to closely examine a curated selection of antique, estate, and vintage jewelry pieces under the guidance of experts. Attendees can gain practical experience in evaluating quality, identifying hallmarks, and appreciating the intricate details that contribute to a piece's value and history. Beyond the educational aspect, it's an ideal setting for networking with fellow enthusiasts, collectors, and industry professionals in a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere. This engaging reception will take place at Fortuna Auction's premises, located at 608 5th Ave #507, New York, NY 10020, offering a tangible connection to the market.

Saturday, October 27: Transformative Lectures at the Newark Museum

The main day of the conference transitions to the historic Newark Museum, where a full day of enlightening lectures awaits. From 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, a roster of eminent speakers will share their invaluable knowledge and perspectives on a diverse array of critical topics in the jewelry world, covering everything from market threats to historical evolution and contemporary digital trends.

Introduction: The Synthetic Diamond Threat in the Antique and Estate Industry
Speaker: Edward Lewand – Co-director of Jewelry Camp and a highly respected professional, independent appraiser of fine and antique jewelry.
Edward Lewand, a seasoned expert in jewelry appraisal and a driving force behind Jewelry Camp, will open Saturday's program with a timely and critical discussion on "The Synthetic Diamond Threat in the Antique and Estate Industry." As technology advances, synthetic diamonds are becoming increasingly sophisticated, posing significant challenges for professionals and collectors. This introductory session will illuminate the growing concerns surrounding the detection and identification of lab-grown diamonds, particularly when integrated into older pieces, and their potential profound impact on the authenticity and valuation of antique and estate jewelry. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of the nuances involved in distinguishing natural from synthetic stones, equipped with essential knowledge to protect their investments and maintain the integrity of their collections in an evolving market.

Jewelry: Art, Craft, Culture – An Enduring Human Expression
Speaker: Ulysses Grant Dietz – Co-director of Jewelry Camp and the distinguished Chief Curator Emeritus at the Newark Museum.
Maintaining and Selling Your Collection: Strategic Insights for Collectors
Speakers:


    
Susan Abeles – Head of Jewelry, Americas and Senior International Specialist at Phillips
    
Eva Violante – Senior Specialist and Vice President for Phillips Jewels Department

For collectors looking to preserve or divest their precious assets, this essential presentation by Phillips' esteemed specialists, Susan Abeles and Eva Violante, is indispensable. Titled "Maintaining and Selling Your Collection," the session will demystify the seemingly straightforward yet often complex processes involved in managing a significant jewelry collection. While maintaining and selling jewelry may appear intuitive, there are fundamental guidelines and strategic considerations that require careful understanding to devise a successful personalized approach. This presentation will provide a comprehensive examination of critical factors influencing value, such as style trends, the condition of the piece, and its intrinsic worth. The speakers will address common pitfalls and mistakes often made by collectors when maintaining and eventually selling their jewelry. Furthermore, they will dissect various methods for selling jewelry, outlining the distinct strengths and potential liabilities associated with each approach, from auction houses to private sales. Attendees will leave with a clear roadmap and the best strategies for maximizing return on their cherished investments, ensuring their collection management is both informed and profitable.

Matters of Form: Jewelry Styles and Motifs Across Global History
Speaker: Donna Bilak – An esteemed early modern science historian specializing in the history of alchemy in British North America, England, and the Continent.
Donna Bilak, an acclaimed historian, will present "Matters of Form: Jewelry Styles and Motifs." This lecture takes inspiration from Owen Jones' seminal 1856 publication, The Grammar of Ornament, a monumental design sourcebook that articulated key principles across architecture and decorative arts, drawing from an astonishing array of historical and global influences. Ms. Bilak will utilize Jones’ groundbreaking work as a springboard to explore jewelry history and technology from a truly global perspective. The presentation will analyze how design elements, forms, functions, and materials have evolved and intertwined across different times and cultures, shaping the aesthetic language of jewelry. Attendees will gain a deeper appreciation for the interplay of artistic principles, cultural context, and technological innovation that defines distinctive jewelry styles throughout history, understanding how seemingly disparate forms are often connected by underlying design philosophies and a shared human impulse for adornment. This session is crucial for understanding the "why" behind different jewelry aesthetics.

Building a Collection: American Jewelry at The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Speaker: Beth Carver Wees – Ruth Bigelow Wriston Curator of American Decorative Arts, Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Beth Carver Wees, the distinguished Ruth Bigelow Wriston Curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, will offer a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at "Building a Collection: American Jewelry at The Met." She will recount the journey of American jewelry entering the Met's prestigious collection as early as 1883. By the year 2000, this collection had grown to approximately 75 objects, almost entirely through generous gifts. Ms. Wees will demystify the complex process a curator undertakes to thoughtfully expand such a collection in ways that are both meaningful to the museum's narrative and fiscally responsible. Her talk will illuminate the guiding principles that govern acquisitions for major museum collections, highlighting the invaluable contributions of individuals who have championed the growth of this specific wing. Attendees will be treated to stories behind many of the treasured pieces that now proudly reside in the Met’s American Wing, offering unique insights into the world of museum curation and the historical significance of American jewelry from a leading institutional perspective.

Digital Diamonds: High Jewelry in the Social Media Landscape
Speaker: Levi Higgs – Archivist and Social Media Manager at David Webb.
In an increasingly connected world, Levi Higgs, the creative mind behind David Webb's digital presence, will address the timely topic of "Digital Diamonds: High Jewelry in the Social Media Landscape." Fine jewelry, once confined to exclusive boutiques and private viewings, has seamlessly integrated into the vibrant realm of social media, finding a natural and impactful home. As platforms like Instagram continually evolve, luxury jewelry houses and savvy industry professionals are adapting their strategies, delivering dynamic and engaging content through posts, stories, and sophisticated paid advertising campaigns. This insightful talk will delve into the current best practices adopted by top-tier brands, showcasing notable social-specific campaigns that have successfully captivated global audiences. Mr. Higgs will also explore other facets of the jewelry industry that are uniquely suited for the visual storytelling capabilities of Instagram, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of how high jewelry brands leverage digital platforms to connect with collectors and enthusiasts in the 21st century. This session is vital for understanding modern marketing and brand building in the jewelry sector.

The Allure of Jewelry: The Best is Always Desirable – A Century of Design Evolution
Speaker: Janet Zapata – Independent scholar and museum consultant specializing in jewelry and silver.
Closing the lecture series, Janet Zapata, a distinguished independent scholar and museum consultant, will present "The Allure of Jewelry: The Best is Always Desirable." This compelling presentation will trace the dramatic evolution of jewelry design over the past century, a period marked by unprecedented innovation and stylistic shifts. Ms. Zapata will begin her journey at the dawn of the twentieth century, highlighting the transformative introduction of platinum, which ushered in the iconic "all-white look" famously popularized by Cartier’s exquisite garland style. Attendees will then explore how delicate, diamond-set flowers and bows gave way to the bold colors and rectilinear forms characteristic of the Art Deco movement of the 1920s. The narrative will further evolve into the sculptural Art Moderne forms championed by visionary houses like Van Cleef & Arpels and designers such as Suzanne Belperron. The lecture will also spotlight individual designers, including Jean Schlumberger and Donald Claflin at Tiffany & Co., who introduced distinctive figural styles, and conclude by examining how the groundbreaking designs of Hemmerle and JAR have heralded a new era of artistic expression in jewelry. This comprehensive overview promises to be a magnificent celebration of design ingenuity and enduring beauty, offering a chronological appreciation of master craftsmanship.

Why Attend Jewelry Camp 2018?

Jewelry Camp 2018 is an unparalleled opportunity for anyone passionate about antique, estate, and vintage jewelry. Whether you are a seasoned collector, an emerging professional, an avid enthusiast, or simply curious about the world of precious adornments, this conference offers immense value. Attendees will gain:

    
Expert Insights: Learn directly from leading authorities and thought leaders in jewelry history, appraisal, market trends, and conservation.
    
Practical Knowledge: Engage in hands-on sessions and lectures designed to enhance your understanding of identification, valuation, and maintenance of jewelry collections.
    
Networking Opportunities: Connect with a diverse community of fellow collectors, dealers, curators, and industry professionals, fostering valuable relationships and discussions.
    
Market Awareness: Stay abreast of the latest challenges, such as synthetic diamonds, and strategic approaches to buying, selling, and appraising in a rapidly evolving market.
    
Cultural Enrichment: Explore the profound cultural and historical significance of jewelry through the lens of museum collections and expert historical analysis.


Don't miss this exceptional chance to deepen your knowledge, expand your network, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of antique and estate jewelry. Jewelry Camp 2018 promises to be an enriching and inspiring experience for all dedicated to the art and history of adornment.

For more information and to register, please visit the official website:
JewelryCamp.org