JEWELLERY OF THE VICTORIAN ERA
1837–1901
The jewellery of the Victorian era represents one of the richest and most diverse chapters in 19. th-century European jewellery art. During Queen Victoria's 64 -year reign, jewellery was not merely ornamental: it often carried emotions, memories, and social significance.
The jewellery art of the period is generally divided into three main phases. In the early Romantic period (1837–1860), nature-inspired motifs—flowers, leaves, tendrils, and animals—became popular, alongside symbolic jewellery. In the Grand period (1860–1885), following the death of Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, mourning jewellery came to the forefront. In the final phase of the era, the Aesthetic period (1885–1901), jewellery was once again characterized by a lighter, more artistic form language and natural motifs.
Craft techniques played an important role in the creation of Victorian jewellery, including filigree, granulation, hand engraving, and enamelling. Gold, silver, natural pearls, and various gemstones were frequently used.
One of the most exciting features of the era's jewellery is symbolism. Each piece of jewellery could express love, loyalty, remembrance, or even a personal message. Therefore, Victorian jewellery still means more than simple decorative objects today: they preserve the story, emotions, and elegance of a bygone era.
