Acrostic Jewellery
Acrostic Jewellery is jewellery in which gemstones are selected so that the first letters of their names spell a word, name or sentiment. The technique was particularly fashionable during the Georgian and Victorian periods, when jewellery was often used to communicate personal messages and emotions discreetly.
Different gemstones were chosen according to their initial letters. For example, a combination of Ruby, Emerald, Garnet, Amethyst, Ruby and Diamond could spell “REGARD”, making acrostic jewellery a form of sentimental jewellery with a hidden message.
Acrostic jewellery became especially popular during the nineteenth century, when sentimental jewels were exchanged between lovers, friends and family members. Rings, bracelets, brooches, pendants and other jewels could all incorporate acrostic messages.
The appeal of acrostic jewellery lies in the combination of decorative beauty and personal meaning. To the viewer, the gemstones may simply appear to form an attractive arrangement, while the wearer or recipient understands the hidden message.
Acrostic jewellery is closely associated with Victorian sentimental jewellery, although the tradition began earlier and continued beyond the nineteenth century.
At Weldons, acrostic jewellery is appreciated for both its craftsmanship and the personal symbolism incorporated into its design.
Period: Particularly Georgian and Victorian
Typical gemstones: Ruby, emerald, garnet, amethyst, diamond and other coloured gemstones
Characteristic feature: Gemstones whose initial letters spell a word or message
