02
February 2026

The British Crown Jewels: Every stone tells a story

Welcome to The Arts Society Sandwich
Monday, February 2, 2026 - 19:00
Guildhall Sandwich Sandwich CT13 9AH
Online Event

The British Crown Jewels are an unchanging jewelled anchor, whilst all around us changes.

The British Crown Jewels are an unchanging jewelled anchor, whilst all around us changes.  Delve into the history & beauty of the Crowns, Sceptre, Orb and other royal jewels used during the coronation ceremony.  Diamond industry expert Laurie Wickwire, GIA will take you to the front row of the  coronation with details of the diamonds, rubies, sapphires and pearls used in the newly crafted royal regalia used by Kings & Queens since 1661. Secrets & mystery abound within these priceless jewels, seen by millions, worn by one.

THE ARTS SOCIETY ACCREDITED LECTURER

Ms Laurie Wickwire

With over 35 years in the diamond industry, diamond expert Laurie Wickwire represents the industry across all sectors: mining, sorting, grading and  brokering some of the world’s key rough stones.  

A leader in the industry, Laurie is the On-Air Diamond Expert for the international television shopping channel QVC where her opinion is regularly sought by over a million viewers each week.  

Whether presenting diamond shows on national channels the BBC, ITV and QVC, hosting diamond master classes, filming jubilee specials, or creating the historical jewellery range for both Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle gift shops, Laurie’s love of the diamond industry is apparent.  

A graduate of GIA London, IGI Antwerp, and DeBeers Institute of Diamonds, Laurie is both a certified diamond grader and certified pearl grader. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in International Business & Finance, and a Bachelor of Arts in French.   

Laurie’s industry knowledge has seen her interviewing celebrities at the Cannes Film Festival, publishing articles on Ocean Mining or the British Coronation, guest on numerous internationally streamed podcasts, enrichment lecturer on luxury cruise lines and creating bespoke commissions for the Royal Family.