History of Vintage Jewelry

Georgian, Early Victorian, Mid-Victorian, Late Victorian, Arts and Crafts era, Art Nouveau, Edwardian, Art Deco and Retro are the names of the eras that was given to certain periods of history. The jewelry of those eras are also referred to by the same name. Vintage Jewelry is also known as Estate Jewelry.

Georgian Jewelry (1714-1837)

Georgian jewelry was handmade, making each peace unique. Designs were mostly nature-inspired such as leaves and birds. Precious stones were frequently used and any of the original jewelry is rarely found today.

Victorian Jewelry

• Early Victorian, Romantic Jewelry (1837-1850)
  Early Victorian era jewelry features nature-inspired designs like Georgian era; however these designs would be delicately engraved into gold. Lockets and brooches were popular everyday jewelry whereas colored gemstones and diamonds were worn during the evening.

• Mid-Victorian, Grand Jewelry (1860-1880)
  This era corresponded with the death of Queen Victoria’s husband; therefore many jewelry pieces have solemn designs. Jewelry in this period was known as mourning jewelry and the pieces featured heavy, dark stones along with gems such as Jet, Onyx, Amethyst, and Garnet. Creativity was at a high during this period with colorful designs featuring shells, mosaics and colorful gemstones.

• Late Victorian, Aesthetic Jewelry (1885-1900)
  During the Late Victorian period, diamonds and gemstones such as sapphire, peridot, and spinel were commonly used by jewelers. Star, crescent designs and elaborate hat pins were also popular.

Arts and Crafts Jewelry (1894-1923)

At the time of the Industrial Revolution, many jewelry designers rebelled, returning to making intricate designs and handmade craftsmanship. It was common for jewelry of this era to be simple in pattern, with colorful, uncut stones.

Art Nouveau Jewelry (1895-1915)

Art Nouveau jewelry featured natural designs such as flowers and butterflies. It was popular in America and France.

Edwardian Jewelry (1901-1910)

During this period, expensive gemstones such as diamonds, emeralds, rubies and elaborate designs were in demand as designers used these materials extensively to make their jewelry.

Art Deco Jewelry (1920-1935)

Art Deco jewelry is famous for its geometric designs, sharp lines, and bright colors it was mostly influenced by African, Egyptian and Japanese themes. Necklaces were long and bracelets were worn many at a time. Amber and murano beads were worn as well as chokers.

Retro Jewelry (1940s)

Inspired by Hollywood, Retro jewelry is colorful, bold and elaborate. Commonly worn were large cocktail rings, bracelets, watches, necklaces and charm bracelets.

• Jun 1st, 07
• Leave a Comment...