What if jewelry has always been a form of protest?

 


 

“Dissent is the highest form of patriotism.”

Sunday, October 18, 2026 from 11am -12pm EDT

From abolitionist jewelry in the 1700s to pieces connected to immigration today, American jewelry has carried messages of resistance, identity, and political conviction—often hiding in plain sight.

 

In this provocative exploration of American history, we’ll look at museum pieces that seem unrelated until you see the thread connecting them.

George Washington memorial ring, 1799

Green, white & violet ring

Cameo attributed to Girolamo Miseroni, 1522–1584

Chin Sung of China, by Augustin Edouart, 1841

Pride + Joy bracelet, National Museum of American History

Art Smith

Jewelry has a unique power: 

 


 

-  it can speak when words are censored

 


 

- challenge authority without saying a word

 


 

- and turn the body into a billboard for dissent

 


 

Jewelry has a unique power: 

 


 

it can speak when words are censored 

 


 

challenge authority without saying a word

 


 

and turn the body into a billboard for dissent

 


 

What others are saying

“

You approached the subject with such grace and expertise, and had the courage to walk into an arena today among friends and foes. I believe that there is a great need to educate and address these topics; to broaden minds. In today's socio-political climate in the US, the culture of erasure, it is important that this jewelry, art, objects are not forgotten. Thank you again." 

 

Sherry K. USA 

“

It makes you go inward and take a look at where your values are. It makes connections of jewelry and descent. This opened up doors of thought.

 

Gail L, NYC

“

I found the discussion incredibly thought-provoking. It brought together aspects of jewellery, social history, politics, identity and symbolism in a way I hadn’t really considered before, and I honestly haven’t been able to stop thinking about it since.

 

Jennifer O, Canada

“

Is there a book on this topic in your future?

 

Steve T, USA

“

My mind is blown. Absolutely fantastic.

 

 Sarah R.

“

Excellent presentation, thank you for doing so much research!

 

Adagio Designs

“

Definitely an eye opener, thanks!

 

  Joshua S.

“

Bravo!

 

 

 Sherry K.

“

Incredible presentation. Puts an interesting perspective on history. Thank you.

 

 Katherine P.

“

A book on this topic would be great!

 

  Barbara W.

Sunday, October 18 from 11am -12pm EDT

 

Come discover the rebellious side of jewelry—and see American history through a lens you may never have considered before.

 


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