Often a means of decoration, jewellery is also a social marker, demonstrating a wearer’s beliefs. It could be made out of precious or cheap material, but despite its value, its importance also lies in its historic significance.

An exhibition by Fondazzjoni Patrimonju Malti, which opened at the Casino Maltese on Sunday, presents the story of jewellery on the island – from prehistoric to contem-porary times.

Called Vanity, Profanity and Worship: Jewellery from the Maltese Islands, the exhibition is presented in sections, delving deep into Malta’s identity as expressed through jewellery.

It includes sections about amulets, devotional and secular pieces, filigree and contemporary jewellery.

A small part in the contemporary jewellery section is dedicated to one of the most outstanding jewellery designers of the 20th century, Andrew Grima (1921-2007), who descended from a Maltese family.

His jewellery won the patronage of royalty and international celebrities including Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Margaret and Jacqueline Kennedy. Mr Grima’s style, pioneered in post-war London, changed the direction jewellery design was taking in the last century.

The exhibition is at the Casino Maltese, Republic Street, Valletta, until May 26, from Monday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm, and until late on Friday evenings.