A jeweller’s take on a great artistic voyage

IN THE 18th century, the phrase “the Grand Tour” became popular as a reference to a voyage of initiation across Europe for young male aristocrats to cap an overly academic education, forge their characters, broaden their minds, and ensure their entry into society.

In other words, they took a gap year.

The difference is, this tour would take two to three years and include two compulsory components – a jaunt to Paris and stopovers in key Italian cities.