Georgian Period 1714-1837
Georgian jewelry
production began during the years Great Britain was being ruled by the four Georges, thus the term
'Georgian'. Jewelry of this period was
entirely handmade and individualistic in
design with motifs consisting of items
found in nature, specifically flowers, leaves, insects, and birds. Jewelry from this
period frequently includes precious stones.
Early Victorian Period (Romantic
Jewelry) 1837-1850
The prominent view of
nature continued into the early Victorian period with designs including
floral sprays, animal themes , and scroll work. Lockets and brooches were popular during this
period as were gemstones and diamonds.
Mid-Victorian Period (Grand Jewelry) 1860-1880
The Mid-Victorian
period displayed bolder, and brighter jewelry,
introducing both day and evening wear. Jewelry
of this period largely had motifs
of mosaics, sea shells, agate, jasper and amethyst. Diamonds and other sparkling colorless faceted gems
were popular for evening wear.
Many heavy pieces (mourning
jewelry, inspired by the death of Queen Victoria's
husband) were found in this period, with dark stones such as onyx and garnets,
Late Victorian Period (Aesthetic Jewelry) 1885-1900
Jewelry designs became
lighter and more feminine with the use of sapphires, peridot and spinel, and of course diamonds.
Elaborate hat pins became popular
during this period.
Arts and Crafts Period 1894-1923
Jewelers rebelled
against the mass production of jewelry and brought back a period of
hand-craftsmanship. Each piece of jewelry was handmade using mainly uncut and cabochon stones with an
emphasis on simple functional designs.
Art Nouveau Period 1895-1914
Jewelry during this
period can be characterized by natural designs such as flowers and insects in beautiful
enamels. In France Rene Jules Lalique led the Art Nouveau jewelry movement,
while in America Louis Comfort Tiffany was the best known jeweler. Art
Nouveau pieces are in great demand and very collectible.
Art Deco Period 1920-1935
Art Deco jewelry was influenced by African, Egyptian and Japanese
themes, and is known for its geometric designs, sharp lines,
and bright colors. Materials such as Bakelite, celluloid, and brightly colored enamels were
common during this period. Jewelry of this period
was dominated by French designers such
as Cartier, Bucheron, and Fouquet.
Retro Period 1935-1945
Retro jewelry is
colorful, bold, and flamboyant with wide use of
yellow, pink and green gold.
Modern Period 1945-Today
The jewelry of this
period is often referred to as "cocktail" jewelry. Designs became
more understated and
traditional.
Estate jewelry refers to items that have been
previously worn, and may fall into the categories of either antique,
vintage, or modern. Estate jewelry is jewelry acquired from the estate of
another person, who can be living or deceased.