Mrs. Charlotte Newman, a trailblazing jeweller of the Victorian era, left an indelible mark on London's jewellery scene during a time when the profession was predominantly male-dominated.
Known for her exceptional design skills and innovative approach, she shattered gender barriers and established herself as a prominent figure in the industry.
Mrs. Newman studied goldsmithing at the Kensington School of Art and the Government School of Design (now the Royal College of Art) where she developed her design skills, before working for esteemed jeweller John Brogden in Covent Garden. She quickly gained recognition for her distinctive jewellery creations. Drawing inspiration from historical techniques and styles, her designs captivated the Victorian clientele, earning her a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship.
After the passing of Brogden, Mrs. Newman fearlessly embarked on her own entrepreneurial journey, opening her eponymous jewellery business on Clifford Street, subsequently moving to Savile Row. Her shop became a hub of creativity and elegance, attracting attention from art journals, newspapers, and influential women's presses. From Classical and Renaissance revival pieces to the emerging Arts and Crafts style, Mrs. Newman's jewellery designs showcased her artistic versatility and attention to detail. So iconic were her designs, she would typically keep her shop front sparse to prevent rivals from copying her
Mrs. Newman's talent and contributions were celebrated on an international stage, as her work was featured in renowned exhibitions, including the prestigious Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. In 1899, she was commissioned by the French government to design gold medallions for the Empress of Russia (Maria Feodorovna, mother of the doomed Nikolai Alexandrovich Romanov).
Despite all her pioneering efforts and accolades, she was still frequently barred from many arts and business organisations because she was a woman, however she did go on to lead lectures with the Royal Society of Arts and the International Congress of Women. She was a member of the Women’s Guild of Arts and the Lyceum Club which were founded as a reaction to women being excluded from the male-dominated artistic organisations.
Her dedication and skill led to accolades, including the prestigious Médaille d'honeur in 1878, awarded for her collaboration with John Brogden before he died, and Legion d'Honneur help recognise her as an esteemed talent.
Although Mrs Newman retired in 1910, her business was still managed by her daughter and granddaughter until the beginning of WWII.
A series of Mrs Newman's watercolours can be seen in the V&A in London.
