Joanna, a sought-after speaker, delivers lectures annually to prestigious organisations including The Goldsmith’s Company, Crystal Cruises, The Goldsmiths Centre, Gemfields, Fuli Gemstones and various jewellery retail stores. She is also a recognised accredited Arts Society (formerly NADFAS) lecturer.
Her engaging lectures feature high-resolution colour images, enhanced by optional hands-on workshops. These enlightening sessions cater to both large audiences and intimate gatherings, making them suitable for private or corporate clients in venues such as historic estates, residences, boardrooms, museums or in your home.
To discuss options please contact joanna@joannahardy.com
Examples of Joanna’s Talks & Overviews
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Marking its 700th year in 2027, the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths explores its rich legacy—from its 1327 Royal Charter to the Assay Office and the Trial of the Pyx. This lecture reveals the Company’s enduring role in British craftsmanship, hallmarking, and prestigious Royal commissions. Joanna Hardy is Third Warden in 2025.
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Discover the fascinating world of coloured gemstones in this insightful lecture exploring their history, symbolism, and global significance. From royal treasures to ancient beliefs, Joanna shares personal stories from gemstone mines worldwide, offering a rare glimpse into the artistry, value, and enduring allure of rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and more.
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Uncover the vibrant history and future of Peridot in this lecture led by Joanna Hardy. From ancient Egypt to China’s zero-carbon mines, discover how this overlooked green gemstone is making a modern comeback through sustainable mining practices, global heritage, and expert storytelling. A rich exploration of Peridot’s past and promise.
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Explore the groundbreaking 1961 Goldsmiths’ Hall exhibition that redefined jewellery as art. Joanna Hardy traces its impact from post-war Britain through to today, highlighting craftsmanship, design, and cultural shifts. A must for anyone interested in how modern jewellery evolved into collectable, respected works of art across decades of change.
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A rare glimpse into the legendary world of Parisian haute joaillerie, where craftsmanship, creativity, and history converge. This behind-the-scenes journey reveals how iconic houses like Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels create timeless masterpieces — and the fascinating stories behind the jewels that shaped Paris as the heart of luxury.
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An inspiring, light-hearted reflection on four decades in the jewellery industry — from gemmology and auctions to global mine visits and television. This talk offers rare insight into a career forged with passion, resilience and storytelling, bringing to life the many moments that define a life dedicated to jewellery.
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Across time and cultures, gemstones have been worn for protection, healing, and spiritual meaning. This talk explores the evolving beliefs tied to these natural treasures — why we wear them, what they represent, and how their enduring allure continues to connect us to ritual, memory, and the deeper self.
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Kings, Queens, Tsars, and Maharajas displayed status with stunning gemstones and jewellery. Diamonds, pearls, and rubies captivated explorers worldwide, believed to hold divine power. Indian Maharajas dazzled in lavish gems, while collections from Catherine the Great to Fabergé’s masterpieces are now safeguarded at The Tower of London.
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The French Revolution of 1789 reshaped habits, styles, and trade across Europe. Jewellery evolved with archaeological discoveries, fueling a taste for the exotic. A second lecture explores contemporary designs from 1960-2024, focusing on new materials and transforming unloved jewels, offering insights into value, quality, and market trends.
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The French Revolution of 1789 triggered changes in European habits, styles, and trade. Queen Victoria’s empire flourished, boosting jewellery commerce. Ancient archaeological finds inspired new designs, adding excitement to the market’s appetite for the exotic. This lecture can be combined with another for a Study Day.
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Jewellery has long expressed emotions, replacing words during intimate moments. Passed between lovers, it conveys status, wealth, or personal messages. Historically, it signaled political aspirations and desires, reflecting societal shifts. This lecture explores its evolving symbolic roles across time.
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Spinel has adorned many rulers across the world over the centuries and in the West was mistaken to be a ruby. The Russian State Crown worn by Catherine the Great and the Imperial State Crown worn by English monarchs each exhibit a large red gem thought to be a ruby. This talk follows the journey of this ancient gem and explains how the spinel made rubies famous.