The Providence Jewelry Museum houses a broad representation of fine and fashion jewelry from the 18th century to the present.  Holdings also include samplings of related pieces, such as match safes, pen and fruit knives, card cases, dresser items and similar pieces. While some individual pieces may have literally "traveled the world," in many instances their origins lie in Providence and its environs.

Victorian
"Etruscan Revival" Necklace

Jewelry exists first as a concept, then as a finished product. Images below are drawings of Henry Fulford, a Victorian designer.

Steel Dies

These engine turning machines are still operational. The Providence Jewelry Museum houses a variety of this type of machinery. The earliest one dates from the 1840's and was made in Switzerland. American manufacturers subsequently produced their own engine turning equipment to satisfy domestic demand.