Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco or Vintage
At Friar House we specialise in jewellery from the Art Deco period, however we often have pieces that are older or in fact newer than this. We add new stock to our website on a regular basis so be sure to keep checking in if you don’t see the perfect ring on your first visit.
Here is a brief insight to the different eras of jewellery and how they subtly differ from each other:
‘Georgian’ refers to the style of jewellery that was popular during the Georgian era, which spans from 1714 to 1830. This period is characterized by intricate designs and craftsmanship. Georgian jewellery is known for its use of techniques like enameling, and it often incorporates motifs inspired by nature, such as flowers and leaves, as well as romantic themes.
The craftsmanship of this era is highly regarded, making Georgian jewellery sought after by collectors and enthusiasts today. However, due to its great age Georgian jewellery is now very rare and carries a high price tag.
‘Victorian’ The Victorian era spans from 1837 – 1901, mirroring the reign of Queen Victoria of England. Victorian jewellery is ornate, symbolic and made with a high level of craftsmanship. Gold was the predominant metal often alloyed to achieve colour variants like Rose Gold or to make it harder and more durable. The early Victorian era, the 'Romantic Period' saw an increase of jewellery with amorous themes such as the use of multiple gems whose first letter spelled out words of such as ADORE (Amethyst, Diamond, Opal, Ruby, Emerald).
The Victorians loved motifs from nature such as birds, flowers and serpents (Albert gifted a serpent ring to Queen Victoria upon their engagement)
Towards the end of her reign the jewellery produced tended to be lighter in weight, due to technological advances in alloying gold, making it more delicate and somewhat artistic in nature. Many pieces of Victorian jewellery have survived to the current today, and would still make a good choice for an engagement ring, but perhaps for one not worn on a daily basis.
‘Edwardian’ jewellery refers to the style of jewellery that was popular during the Edwardian era, which lasted from 1901 to 1910, coinciding with the reign of The English Monarch, King Edward VII. This period is characterized by a shift towards more delicate and intricate designs, often influenced by the Art Nouveau movement.
Edwardian jewellery frequently utilised platinum, which became popular for its strength and ability to hold intricate designs. Diamonds became the predominant gemstone, often set alongside pearls and coloured gemstones.
The designs of this era are known for their lace-like, filigree work that were closely tied to the fashion of the time. The use of platinum also allowed the use of open settings that allowed light to pass through the stones, enhancing their brilliance. Motifs often included floral and nature-inspired elements, as well as bows and ribbons. The jewellery often complemented the high-necked dresses and elaborate hairstyles of the era.
Overall, Edwardian jewellery is celebrated for its elegance and craftsmanship, making it highly sought after but still very wearable today.
‘Art Deco’ jewellery refers to the distinctive style of jewellery that emerged during the Art Deco movement of the 1920’s and 1930’s. The term Art Deco is a shortened form of the events name ‘Exposition Internationale des Arts Decoratifs’. Moving away from the nature- inspired motifs of the previous periods, this period is characterized by bold geometric shapes, vibrant colours, and a sense of luxury and modernity. Art Deco jewellery reflects the cultural changes of the time, including advancements in technology, the rise of the Jazz Age, and a fascination with the exotic.
The use of platinum continued during this period, allowing for intricate designs and settings. The use of diamonds increased often paired with coloured gemstones (such as emeralds, sapphires, and rubies), and even materials like onyx and jade. The combination of bright gemstones with black onyx or white diamonds and even enamelling created striking visual effects. New cutting and setting styles for gems were also introduced. The ‘Illusion’ setting popularised during this era shows a square setting for a round European cut diamond thereby creating the illusion of a square diamond.
Stepped diamond shoulders are a typical feature of many Art Deco rings, with smaller or baguette diamonds being used, stepping down either side of the central stone.
The Art Deco movement was heavily influenced by various cultures especially Oriental and Egyptian motifs which were popular following the craze inspired by the opening up of Tutankhamum’s tomb in 1922.
Art Deco jewellery remains highly collectible and is celebrated for its elegance, creativity, and the way it encapsulates the spirit of the Roaring Twenties and the early 20th century. Art Deco is our most popular era of jewellery here at Friar House as the style is as fresh today as it was 100 years ago.
Vintage and Mid-Century Jewellery
Vintage and Mid-century jewellery spans the era from the 1940s to the 1960s and beyond. It is celebrated for its bold designs and innovative use of materials. This era marked a significant departure from the ornate styles of previous decades, embracing modernism and playful aesthetics. Vintage and Mid-century pieces often feature clean lines, geometric shapes, and organic forms. Reflecting the broader cultural shifts of the time we see the use of more colourful vibrant stones, adding a fresh, youthful vibe.
The post-war optimism and the rise of pop culture, including Hollywood glamour, heavily influenced jewellery trends. Stars like Marilyn Monroe popularised statement pieces. At Friar House we also love to embrace glamour and you will often find fabulous statement dress rings on our website alongside the timeless and sophisticated Art Deco pieces that are our trademark era.
Vintage and Mid-century jewellery remains highly collectible today, valued for its artistry and innovation. Rings from this era work wonderfully as engagement dress ring. Each piece reflects a moment in time making them enduring favourites for jewellery enthusiasts and collectors alike.