The Turton Armlet: An Exploration with Jeweller Claire Bowes

This spectacular 4000-year-old gold armlet dating to the early Bronze Age (c.2100–1900BC) was found in 2020 by a metal detectorist on the uplands near Turton. Only a handful of prehistoric gold objects have been found in Lancashire, making it a rare and important find. Join jeweller Claire Bowes for an exploration into the Turton Armlet. Claire will discuss Bronze Age metalwork and the importance of the people who created this work. Using demonstrations, we will look at the techniques that may have been used 4000 years ago and see how they differ from the techniques and skills used today in jewellery making.

The Turton Gold Armlet is currently on display as part of the Hidden Hoards & Fascinating Finds exhibition at Clitheroe Castle Museum, which closes on Sunday 8 March. Don’t miss your chance to combine the talk with a visit to see this remarkable hoard before the exhibition ends!

Booking essential. £6.00 per person including refreshments and a free pass to visit the museum (you will receive your free pass on arrival to be used within 30 days). Doors open 11.10am for an 11.30am start. Book your ticket at LCC Events

Claire Bowes (BA Hons Fine Art, Norwich University of the Arts) lectured in Fine Art and Graphic Design at The Northern School of Art for 10 years, working on a range of courses. She developed a range of community outreach projects in the North East and worked passionately to provide routes for all individuals to access higher education. Having always had a passion for making and traditional crafts, she took the opportunity to become an apprentice jeweller, learning the key jewellery making skills and historic techniques, working her way to the jewellers bench where she now specialises in repair, restoration and jewellery making at Carrs Jewellers in Garstang.

Clitheroe Castle Museum is managed by Lancashire County Council's Museum Service on behalf of Ribble Valley Borough Council.