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Spotlight: Edwardian Jewelry
Though a short period of time in history, the Edwardian era was a time of progression and fast evolution of English and American society.
New technological discoveries of this era allowed the jewelry industry to exponentially grow. Read on and learn about the jewelry of this era, and why it is so widely coveted by jewelry lovers worldwide.
Platinum Edwardian Emerald and Diamond Ring
The Edwardian era began after the death of Queen Victoria of England in 1901. After her death, her son Edward began his reign. He was known as a fun-loving and lighthearted ruler. His wife, Alexandra of Denmark, was a trend-setter. Her style and jewelry choices influenced many British women.
The progress of the Victorian era resulted in an extremely rich Edwardian upper class. The economic climate of the time, as well as the rise of global colonialism, sparked new interest in fine jewelry in the upper class.
Filigree Pearl and Diamond Pendant
Baroque Pearl, Sapphire and Diamond 18K Gold Pendant or Brooch, circa 1900
Nature motifs like birds and flowers remained from the Victorian Era, but this new era added an element of fantasy. Intricate designs featuring many different stones, seen in the above pearl pendant, were popular. As the era continued, geometric and simpler designs for rings and bracelets were favored.
Platinum and 18K Gold Edwardian Diamond Pin
9K Gold Opal, Diamond and Sapphire Bee Pin
New discoveries in technology allowed for a larger and more diverse jewelry market. Larger stones were now able to be used in engagement rings and earrings. Diamond-studded rings and brooches were a favored design of the rich higher classes. Darker stones like sapphires and onyx were added to pieces to enhance the shine of the diamonds.
1.04 Carat Diamond Platinum Ring, circa 1905
The latter part of the Edwardian era was overshadowed by the First World War in 1914. This time period also marked a shift in social change, from women’s suffrage to economic opportunity. As World War I ended, so did the Edwardian era of design, and the Art Deco era was ushered in. Jewelry from this transitional period (1915-1920) show features from both eras. Many pieces included the delicate feminine qualities of the Edwardian era and and striking geometric designs of the Art Deco period.
Platinum 3.16 CTW Diamond and Sapphire Ring
