Taking a global view of the development of jewellery over the centuries, this course encourages students to examine the role that jewellery has played in different societies. What are the similarities and differences in the ways different cultures have used jewellery and adornment as: symbols of status, wealth and power; talismans and ritual objects; functional objects and fastenings; dowry and symbols of commitment? How have the histories of craft, art and design intersected and influenced each other? Through exposure to diverse works of art from many cultures and epochs, students begin to build a visual vocabulary with which to enrich their work, and awaken to the possibilities of jewellery and its functions.
Prerequisites
Course type
This course is offered as part of a VCC program and cannot be taken individually.
International students: Eligibility is determined at the program level. Visit the program page for international student requirements and application information.
- Jewellery as symbol of social status and/or power
- Functional jewellery
- Jewellery as dowry
- Jewellery used as talisman, and in ritual and religion
- Jewellery representing tribal or familial connections
- Jewellery in gift economies
- Northwest Coast Indigenous jewellery and design
- Compare and contrast jewellery from diverse world cultures and time periods
Course schedules
Select your program to see the available course schedules.
| CRN# | Duration | Delivery | Location | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 70655 |
September 1, 2026 to December 11, 2026 |
Lecture | VCC Downtown Campus | See full schedule |
Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule. All self-paced courses have on-campus tests. Off-site certified invigilation centres may be used at the student's expense.
How to take this course
This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.
Contact us
If you have any questions, please email at [email protected].
† This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.