Antique Jewellery Through The Ages

Like fragrance, jewellery is also a personal preference for both men and women and that is why so many types and categories of jewellery exist. But out of all of them antique jewellery has it’s own charm, that up to this day, interest in antique jewellery for sale hasn’t waned. There is something magnificent about antique jewellery that never fails to amaze me. From diamond rivieres of the Georgian Era to the intricate Art Nouveau nature-inspired jewellery, diamonds and gemstones have truly been women’s best friend. Well, jewellery means different where I come from. In India, gold jewellery is usually passed on through generations from mothers to daughters.

But have your ever thought that there is more to jewellery than just than the carat of gold or the precious stones that it consists of. Antique Jewelry is inherited by families and holds deeper interpretations. How did jewellery transform through the years – from huge diamond-studded rings and necklaces to more wearable or “fashionable” jewellery? Let me take you through the evolution of jewellery:

Georgian Era – The bigger the better:

Back in the day, from the year 1714 to 1730, the demand for jewels was extremely high, and highly skilled goldsmiths made one-of-a-kind opulence. There was a broad selection of jewelry in the Georgian era – from elaborated buckles, hair accessories to stacked rings with huge stones surrounded by smaller diamonds.

Victorian Era – Religion and Love themed:

In this time, symbolism derived from nature as well as religion based jewelry was sought-after. Ornaments were inspired by hearts, crosses, and even snakes. Snakes were considered to be a representation of eternal love. Isn’t that romantic? Even men at the time sported pocket watches, studded cufflinks, and much more keeping in mind that it was minimal. The jewellery in this era sported other colourful precious stones such as ruby, sapphire, emerald as well apart from the diamond.

Edwardian Era or La Belle Epoque:

Ruled by the human representation of opulence, King Edward, the jewelry in this era was more intricate and ethereal. The ornaments portrayed shapes like garlands, bows, and diamond-encrusted lace. Now when you will see a beautiful ship brooch or an intricate floral bow brooch, you’ll know which era it comes from.

Art Nouveau and Art Deco:

Probably one of my favorite eras of jewelry, the art nouveau/deco ornaments were and still are timeless. The Art Nouveau era displayed bright colors and more fluidity while the Art Deco or the post-war era was more inspired by the practicality of women’s lives. The designs were exotic as well as geometric.

Mid Century – Retro and Vintage:

By all means, the retro and vintage jewelry sparked with colors as we moved towards more modern times. The jewelry composition moved from pure gold, silver, platinum, and diamond to less expensive costume jewelry. Costume jewelry or “fake” jewelry became rather popular due to the affordability factor.

Modern Times – Dainty & Practical:

As times changed, the way people dress has also changed. Gone are the days when women wore large gowns and went to tea parties displaying their family’s wealth through their expensive jewelry. Women have moved towards jobs that men used to do previously and have become more empowered. The focus has moved towards practical and iconic jewelry. Expensive jewellery and artificial jewellery are equally popular.

If you ask me, I’m still a connoisseur of antique jewelry. Not only is it a significantly good investment, but also the story of each collectible ornament is unique. The intricacies are purely breathtaking and it gives me a feeling of owning some treasure.

Are you a fan of antique jewellery? What is your favorite era? Let me know in the comments section below. Till next time…take care…xoxo.

P.S. Images Credit: AC Silver. Click on image to see the listing.