Victoria’s Golden Heritage – An exceptional jewellery collection now showing at Valentine’s Antique Gallery, Bendigo.

In collaboration with Trevor Hancock of Trinity Antiques and the Sandhurst Club, Valentine’s Antique Gallery hosted this wonderful lecture on “Victoria’s Golden Heritage”, an evening that celebrated not just extraordinary jewellery, but the rich story of Victoria’s goldfields and the artisans who transformed that gold into works of lasting beauty.

Now, that story continues in Victoria’s Golden Heritage, a remarkable exhibition currently on display at Valentine’s.

This very special collection of antique jewellery—crafted entirely in the state of Victoria—has been brought together by Trevor in the hope of saving these pieces from the melting pot. Jewellery like this is increasingly rare and, in many cases, no longer made in Australia. Much of our gold is now shipped overseas to foreign makers, making these locally crafted treasures all the more significant.

The gold featured throughout the collection was mined during the 19th century, at the height of Victoria’s gold rush, and fashioned by skilled local jewellers. The collection includes a variety of rings, fob chains, brooches, pocket watches, medals, bracelets, earrings, pendants, and necklaces, alongside intriguing curios such as a gold thimble, buckles, medals, and even a very rare napkin holder.

Visitors may notice that many of the pieces are predominantly gold, with relatively few precious gemstones. This is no coincidence—gemstones were difficult to import into Australia during the 19th century due to the fraught and often risky nature of transporting them by ship. As a result, the few gemstone-set pieces that do appear in the collection are especially desirable.

Among the highlights is a spectacular 15ct gold fancy link fob chain by Larard Bros., Melbourne, circa 1890. This exceptional piece features a 15ct gold sapphire and diamond pendant and carries a fascinating provenance—it was presented to W.F. Busse Esq. by members of the Golden Bar Syndicate in Chiltern in 1905. It stands as both a masterwork of craftsmanship and a tangible link to Victoria’s gold mining heritage.

Trevor himself has noted that he could never assemble a collection like this again, even if he tried. Victorian-made antique jewellery of this calibre has become incredibly difficult to source, making this exhibition not only rare—but potentially unrepeatable.

It is our sincere hope that this collection remains intact and is ultimately acquired by an संस्था such as a museum or gallery, ensuring its preservation for generations to come. As members of the AAADA, part of our role is to safeguard these important historical objects—protecting them, sharing them, and keeping them within our state.

This is more than jewellery.
This is our history.

Victoria’s Golden Heritage can be viewed exclusively at Valentine’s Antique Gallery until April 30th.