1900s Jewellery

At the beginning of the 20th century, jewellery was often understated and delicate. Edwardian ladies favoured elegant pieces such as platinum filigree brooches and pearl drop earrings.

Edwardian jewellery often featured intricate, floral designs, with garlands, bows, flowers and ribbons amongst the most popular motifs. In contrast, Art Deco jewellery featured geometric shapes, bold colours and streamlined designs influenced by the machine age.

In the early 1900s, jewellery was often crafted in gold and platinum. It is unusual to see 'important' pieces of jewellery from this period crafted with silver. White gold, at the stage, was yet to be invented.

The most popular gemstones used in 1900s jewellery were sapphires, rubies, emeralds, pearls and, of course, diamonds.

Famous 1900s jewellery designers include Peter Carl Fabergé, René Lalique and Suzanne Belperron. The beginning of the century also saw the rise of prominent jewellery houses such as Cartier and Tiffany & Co.

In the early 1900s, engagement rings often featured solitaire diamonds, or a small cluster of diamonds set in yellow gold. Edwardian engagement rings typically had intricate filigree or lacy designs, often featuring floral or ribbon motifs. The predominant diamond cuts were the Old European Cut and the Old Mine Cut. Sapphires, rubies, and emeralds were sometimes used as the centre stone in engagement rings during this time.

It has become increasingly popular to propose with a vintage engagement ring. The attractions are many: a vintage engagement ring is sustainable and green, and unique. Owning a pre-loved engagement ring also offers you and your partner the opportunity to continue the story of a stunning piece of antique jewellery.

1900s jewellery – being more than 100 years old – is considered antique jewellery. Anything younger than 100 years old is considered 'vintage'.