Anne Schofield, a dedicated collector and consultant, has profoundly influenced the field of decorative arts, focusing on antique jewellery and costume. From her early days in 1960s London, she built a renowned collection now held by the National Gallery of Victoria. Honored with the Order of Australia in 2003, Anne has contributed to major exhibitions and provided expert consultancy. Her store, Anne Schofield Antiques, remains a pivotal destination for collectors and enthusiasts of fine jewellery.
What sparked your interest in collecting, and how did you get started?
1 was always interested in historical costume and its accessories, so living in London close to Portobello Rd in the early 1960’s was most fortunate. I think of that time as my apprenticeship.
What is the primary focus of your collection, and why did you choose it?
The primary focus was always antique jewellery, from the 18th century to the 1950s. Later on, I became very interested in Ancient Carved Gemstones, intaglios and cameos.
What was the first item you added to your collection?
An early 19th century amethyst floral cluster ring was the first item, but it was stolen a few years later in London.
Do you have a favourite piece in your collection? What makes it special?
My favourite piece is my late 18th century onyx cameo ring, with a profile of a Roman Emperor. I also love a rare blue agate cameo, with a scene from Ovid’s Metamorphosis.
What’s the rarest or most valuable item you own, and how did you acquire it?
The most rare item is a mid-18th century peacock blue paste parure – it is not of gemological value, but incredibly early and rare – a Museum piece! It has survived BECAUSE it is paste -had it been set with sapphires it would have been broken up for the gemstones. This is true of all 18th century and early 19th century paste jewellery.
of necklace and earrings (pair) in original box, Egyptian revival style, gold, lapis lazuli, Luigi Freschi, Rome, Italy, 1800s.
Powerhouse Collection. Gift of Anne Schofield AM. Photo: Marinco Kojdanovski
Have you ever come across a piece that got away?
I once bought at Christies Geneva, a fantastic Chaumet aquamarine and diamond brooch, which I should have kept, but at the time I had to sell for financial reasons, it’s the one that got away!
Is there a story behind one of the pieces in your collection that stands out?
The cameo ring that I wear was stolen in a robbery at my house in the 1970s and I got it back!
How do you ensure the authenticity of the items in your collection?
I’ve had 60 odd years experience in buying and selling, starting in London in 1964. I used to travel at times when I could go to lectures given by the International Society of Jewellery Historians. I have amassed a huge collection of jewellery reference books, and I have always valued my consultations with trusted colleagues.
Has your collection ever been featured in an exhibit or borrowed for public display?
My ancient and neo- classical jewellery was loaned to the Nicholson Museum at Sydney University in 2010 for an exhibition titled ‘Beauty and Betrayal’. The Powerhouse Museum exhibition in 2014 ‘A Fine Possession’ also featured 80 items loaned from my collection. Many of these items were displayed again in the 2023 Powerhouse exhibition ‘1001 Remarkable Objects’.
By Hamish Sharma / Head of Important Jewels
Top Image: Anne Schofield AM wearing gold necklace set with agate, amethyst, bloodstone, carnelian, garnet, lapis lazuli and onyx intaglios that she donated to the Powerhouse collection in 2022. Photography by Joe Brennan, courtesy of Powerhouse
February 2025